Nichrome – Typical Application in Electrical Engineering Nichrome (a nickel–chromium alloy) is commonly used for which of the following applications?

Introduction / Context:
Material selection in electrical systems balances resistivity, temperature coefficient, oxidation resistance, and mechanical properties. Nichrome, an alloy of nickel and chromium (often with iron), is widely used as a resistance heating element due to its stable high-temperature behavior and corrosion resistance in air.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Nichrome composition provides high resistivity and oxidation resistance.
• Application environments include elevated temperatures and repeated thermal cycling.
• Electrical performance must be stable over long service intervals.

Concept / Approach:

Nichrome’s resistivity is higher than that of copper or aluminum, making it suitable where heat generation (I^2R losses) is desired in a compact form. It forms a protective oxide layer at high temperature, preventing rapid degradation. Hence, it is ideal for heater coils, toasters, furnaces, and lab heaters. In contrast, overhead lines demand low-resistivity, lightweight conductors (e.g., aluminum, ACSR), and lamp filaments typically use tungsten for its very high melting point and emissivity.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Manufacturer datasheets list nichrome wire for heating elements; power system standards specify Al/ACSR conductors; lighting standards specify tungsten filaments.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Overhead lines: efficiency loss would be excessive due to high resistivity.
• Lamp filaments: tungsten outperforms nichrome at incandescence temperatures.
• “All of the above” contradicts distinct material requirements.

Common Pitfalls:

Assuming any conductive wire suits all purposes; ignoring oxidation resistance at red-heat conditions.

Final Answer:

Heater coils (electric heating elements)