Tungsten-Silver / W-Ag

Tungsten-silver (W-Ag) is a composite material composed of a combination of tungsten and silver, designed for applications requiring high resistance to arc erosion and excellent electrical conductivity. The material is produced by sintering tungsten powder and infiltrating the remaining pores with liquid silver. This process method results in a finely distributed, stable microstructure with a balanced mix of mechanical and electrical properties.

The composition combines the hardness, thermal stability, and burn-off resistance of tungsten with the excellent electrical and thermal conductivity of silver, making W-Ag excel in demanding electrical engineering applications.

Properties of Tungsten-Silver

Tungsten-silver is distinguished by an excellent combination of wear resistance, arc resistance, and electrical conductivity. The high density and melting point of tungsten ensure structural stability, even during intensive switching or exposure to high temperatures. Silver, with its extremely low electrical resistance, ensures minimal energy loss and reliable current transfer.

The composite structure makes W-Ag resistant to electrical erosion and contact wear, while maintaining its conductive properties under heavy thermal and electrical loads. Additionally, the material can be easily machined into complex shapes, enhancing its application possibilities.

Applications of Tungsten-Silver

Tungsten-silver is primarily used in applications where high electrical loads and mechanical wear converge. In electrical engineering, W-Ag is a preferred material for contact points in high-voltage switches, relays, circuit breakers, and vacuum contacts. The material delivers outstanding performance with frequent switching, high voltage arcs, and heavy current surges.

Additionally, tungsten-silver is used in railway technology, aviation, and power generation, where reliable electrical contacts are critical. Thanks to its combination of conductivity, wear resistance, and heat resistance, W-Ag contributes to the long-lasting, low-maintenance operation of critical systems.

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