Different Metals Used in Electrical Contact Assemblies
Electrical contacts and assemblies are crucial components in multiple fields, especially ones that deal with industrial machines. They serve as the switch that can complete or interrupt a circuit, affecting the current that goes through the equipment.
There are multiple factors that affect how electrical contacts perform. Contact force, voltage and current, weldability, and resistance are things that you should consider when buying this material. But, the most crucial element is the metal used.
Here are three of the most commonly used materials in electrical contacts:
Gold
This is an expensive material that increases the cost of manufacturing. But, it's still frequently used for electrical contacts due to its unique properties. Gold (Au) is insusceptible to corrosion, which makes it ideal if you're worried about rust. It's also a lot more durable and resistant to usual wear. Fretting degradation won't be an issue, either. So, Au can significantly extend the lifespan of the contacts.
The outstanding properties of Au can also effectively stabilize electric currents that run through the contacts. Most manufacturers believe that the additional cost of gold plating is worth it due to the many benefits it offers that result in a long-term return on investment.
Silver
Of all the materials, Silver (Ag) and its alloys have the highest thermal conductivity. Due to its resistance to intense heat, manufacturers of cars and jet engines use Ag plating for most of their metal components. It's also extremely durable and resistant to damage from environmental elements. So, with a silver contact, you won't have to worry about replacing it.
Silver is also malleable, making it ideal if you need a customized assembly. It's not too stiff that it'll break upon force, and it's sturdy enough to withstand heavy weight. Ag can be molded and bent into any form without losing its conductivity.
Platinum
The platinum (Pt) group of metals includes palladium (Pt), rhodium (Rh), ruthenium (Ru), iridium (Ir), and osmium (Os). Pt is an extremely inert material and is harder than gold. It has a very high melting point, so extreme heat won't affect the integrity of the contact. But, some of its properties make the element less conductive compared to Ag and Au.
These are some of the best metals for electrical contact assemblies. If you want to learn more about them or arcing contacts, consult an expert who can help you choose the most ideal material for your manufacturing needs.