| 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® 43 is CMW's trademark for a palladium-silver-copper-nickel alloy having high tensile strength and good resistance to mechanical wear. It is more resistant to sulfide tarnish than fine silver but is susceptible to oxidation at high temperatures and under arcing conditions. It is used as a combination spring and contact in sliding Applications such as potentiometers and instrument commutators. Information provided by NAECO, LLC. |
