Silver Tungsten Carbide Properties

silver tungsten carbide rod picture

Silver tungsten carbide (AgWC) is a composite material that offers an excellent combination of electrical and mechanical properties. Its key performance characteristics include:

1. Electrical Properties
High Electrical Conductivity: Thanks to the silver content, AgWC provides efficient current flow.
Low Contact Resistance: Minimal resistance at the contact point reduces energy loss and improves conductivity.
Low Material Transfer Rate: Excellent stability under high switching frequency and arc conditions.

2. Arc Resistance
Excellent Arc Erosion Resistance: Tungsten carbide delivers superior resistance to arc wear.
Strong Anti-Welding Performance: Prevents sticking or welding under high-temperature, high-current arcs.
Extended Service Life: Superior arc and sticking resistance ensure a longer operational lifespan compared to conventional silver-based materials.

3. Mechanical Properties
High Hardness and Strength: The WC matrix gives the material exceptional compressive strength and wear resistance.
Dense and Uniform Structure: Achieved through vacuum infiltration, offering excellent mechanical reliability.

4. Thermal Properties
Outstanding Thermal Stability: Maintains structural and functional integrity even under elevated temperatures.
Good Thermal Conductivity: Enhances heat dissipation, reducing localized heating and its impact on electrical performance.

5. Typical Properties of Silver Tungsten Carbide (AgWC30 and AgWC40)

Property Category

 Parameter

AgWC30

AgWC40

Electrical Properties

Electrical Conductivity

About 12–18 % IACS

About 20–25 % IACS

Contact Resistance

0.5–1.5 mΩ(Typical value)

0.5–1.5 mΩ(Typical value)

Material Transfer Rate

Very low

Very low

Arc Resistance

Arc Erosion Rate

Excellent, suitable for high arc loads

Good for medium arc loads

Anti-Welding

 Excellent

 Excellent

Service Life

Long

Moderately Long

Mechanical Properties

Hardness (Vickers)

320–360 HV

280–320 HV

Density

13.5–14.5 g/cm³

12.8–13.8 g/cm³

Compressive Strength

 High

 High

Thermal Properties

Thermal Conductivity

120–140 W/m·K

140–160 W/m·K

Thermal Stability

Excellent

Excellent