Comparison of the switching behavior of silver metal oxide contact materials

Abstract

An investigation of the switching behavior of internally oxidized silver cadmium oxide and silver tin, indium oxide contact materials was undertaken in which detailed, computer supported analysis of changes in the performance (contact weld force, electrical resistance and temperature change) was evaluated. In addition, the impact of electrical switching on the physical characteristics of the material (contact erosion and surface morphology) was examined. The silver tin, indium oxide materials exhibited significantly higher resistance to erosion than the silver cadmium oxide materials. The resistance to welding as well as changes to electrical resistance and temperature were comparable and were more dependent on oxide level than on materials. The results suggest that internally oxidized silver tin, indium oxide could serve as a nontoxic replacement for internally oxidized silver cadmium oxide.