| Palladium belongs to the platinum group of metals and like platinum is highly resistant to atmospheric corrosion; however, it begins to tarnish at temperatures above 400°C. It has a high melting point (1552(C) and, like platinum, resists arc formation. Its low electrical conductivity (16% IACS) limits its application to low current circuits. It costs much less than platinum, and is used as a lower cost alternative. Economics normally dictate that it be supplied as a composite contact with a thin contact metal facing silver brazed to a nickel-plated steel rivet, screw, or projection weld button backing. ELKONIUM® 42 is CMW's trademark for a palladium-silver alloy with the minimum palladium content that provides complete freedom from atmospheric corrosion at normal room temperatures. It is more resistant to metal transfer than pure palladium and its high hardness provides good resistance to mechanical wear. It is economical in many sensitive, low current, AC and DC switching applications. Information provided by NAECO, LLC. |
