kontakterne

Kontakterne, or the electrical contacts, are metal surfaces that establish or interrupt an electrical path within a device. They are essential in switches, relays, and connectors, where they close to form a circuit or separate it to stop current. Kontakterne can be fixed in position or movable, and many designs include normally open or normally closed configurations depending on whether they conduct when at rest.

Materials and finishes: Most kontakterne are made from copper alloys for good conductivity and mechanical resilience. Surfaces are commonly plated with silver or gold to reduce contact resistance and improve corrosion resistance. The contact geometry varies, including flat blades, pins, spring-loaded fingers, and hemispherical tips, chosen to fit mating parts and desired contact force.

Performance: The key specifications are contact resistance, voltage rating, current rating, and mechanical life (number of make/break cycles). In operation, factors such as surface contamination, oxidation, vibration, and arcing can raise resistance and degrade reliability. Thermal effects from current can also alter contact behavior.

Wear and maintenance: With cycling, contacts wear and can become pitted or oxidized. Cleaning with appropriate solvents, avoiding abrasive methods, and applying suitable anti-oxidation coatings help. In demanding applications, designers use redundant contacts, sealed housings, or dust-tight connectors to extend life and safety.

Applications: Kontakterne appear in a wide range of equipment, including mechanical switches, relays, electrical connectors, PCB edge contacts, battery terminals, and automotive or industrial electronics.