No matter how small it is – basically every material is conductive. Even non-conductors such as glass or ceramics do not completely interrupt the flow of current. However, the currents are negligibly small. But what does it depend on Conductivity of a material from? The availability and density of freely movable load carriers are decisive. In addition to first-class conductors – metals, graphite, and some chemical compounds – second-class ionic conductors are also suitable. Your conductivity will be through dissociation (Splitting) of the ionic crystal lattice structure in electrolyte enables.
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Electrically conductive metals
Be very common Metals as electrical conductors used. Their loosely bound electrons in the conduction band are mobile and transport the electric current very well. The best metallic electrical conductor is silver, closely followed by copper . The latter is lighter and much cheaper. Gold and follow in third and fourth place aluminum . In addition to the conductive properties of the various types of material, conductivity also depends on the material temperature: As the temperature rises, it decreases Conductivity of metals . The reason for this are increasing lattice vibrations that hinder the flow of electrons. The rule of thumb is: The resistance per degree increase in temperature increases by 0.5 percent of its value.
Conductive metals are used in various forms as current and connecting conductors. For example, individual Contact spring and Form springs for medium and low voltage transmission Lighting fixtures , Lamps and circuit breakers or as Battery contacts . Basically, electrically conductive metals are found as individual contact spring , Shaped spring or Flat spring application in all technical devices. In addition to automotive technology, the main areas of application include aerospace technology, the Medical technology , mechanical engineering as well Electrical engineering from industry, trade, household and entertainment electronics.
Electrically conductive surface treatments
In addition to the conductive metals there is another way to get good electrical conductors: through a special one conductive surface treatment . These include gold-plating, copper-plating, silver-plating or nickel-plating. In addition to the conductivity, metal springs can be equipped with a subsequent surface treatment also equip it with other properties. For example, they make sure that the components are presented corrosion protected, solderable, chemically resistant or food safe are. You can find more information about this in our article “ Electrically conductive surface treatments “.
Individual development and manufacture of contact springs
For more information on the right contact spring for your specific application, please contact our experts. You can reach the technical department of Gutekunst Formfedern GmbH by phone at (+49) 07445 85160, by email at info@gutekunst-formfedern.de of you send us over the Inquiry button contact springs the desired properties of their component.
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