Switching Contacts

Relays and switches are used in almost all areas of modern electronics for switching peripheral equipment or as input units. Low contact resistance and the longest possible service life are essential to the functionality of these contacts. There are high standards to be met in terms of thermal, electrical and mechanical loads.

Applications that need to work in harsh environments require high quality switching contacts made of precious metal alloy strips with properties adapted to the respective specifications. Depending on the use and switching load, materials based on gold, silver, or palladium are used.

In addition to the selection of the right material, optimal manufacturing technologies are extremely important. Special cladding or electroplating methods are used as surface technologies. A precision welding process connects the contact profile segments with the stamped carrier; both are essential for good power and signal transmission.

Technologies used:

• Joining technology: Individual contact welding and roll seam welding
• Surface technology: Cladding &and electroplating

For certain application areas, Heraeus also produces optimized alloys that meet applicable international standards (e.g. ASTM B540 for Hera 648).