What is ASTM B631?

The standard ASTM B631 specifies the requirements for silver-tungsten (Ag-W) electrical contact materials manufactured through powder metallurgy processes. These materials are used in electrical contacts due to their excellent electrical and thermal conductivity, combined with high resistance to wear and arc erosion. The standard covers compositions within the silver-tungsten system that are typically specified by contact users.

The specification includes requirements for chemical composition, mechanical properties, density, electrical conductivity, and surface finish. The materials must meet the specified composition limits and be finished through methods such as polishing, special surface treatments, or the application of a silver-rich surface layer.

ASTM/ASME available in
tube
ASTM B631 – Tungsten tube
Alloy
wire
ASTM B631 – Tungsten wire
Alloy
foil
ASTM B631 – Tungsten foil
Alloy
plate
ASTM B631 – Tungsten plate
Alloy
rod
ASTM B631 – Tungsten rod
Alloy
tube
ASTM B631 – Tungsten tube
Alloy
bewerkte_delen
ASTM B631 – Tungsten bewerkte_delen
Alloy

What is AMS 5662 used for?

Material Properties

Silver-tungsten materials according to ASTM B631 combine the high electrical and thermal conductivity of silver with the excellent wear resistance and high melting temperature of tungsten. This combination makes them particularly suitable for applications requiring both good conductivity and durability. The powder metallurgical manufacturing method ensures a uniform microstructure and consistent performance.

Depending on the specific grade and composition, the materials can be tailored to meet the requirements of various applications, ranging from high conductivity to increased wear resistance.

Industrial Application

Materials compliant with ASTM B631 are frequently used in electrical contacts where high performance is required. Typical applications include:

  • High-voltage switches

  • Relay contacts

  • Circuit breakers

  • Welding contact points

  • Other applications where electrical contacts are subject to high loads and arcing

Choose Metel as a reliable supplier of tungsten-silver
Order silver-tungsten according to ASTM B631?

Metel supplies sintered silver-tungsten materials in accordance with ASTM B631, suitable for various electrical contact applications. Our products come with full certification and are ready for immediate use in demanding industrial environments.

What you can expect:

  • Materials that demonstrably meet ASTM B631 standards

  • EN 10204 certificates (3.1 or 3.2) with each delivery

  • Short delivery times and European coverage

  • Technical advice on material selection and application

Whether it’s standard sizes or customer-specific customizations, Metel delivers high-quality silver-tungsten contact materials, professionally and without compromising on quality.

Contact one of our experts
Specialist in metals
Do you have a question about the application metals in your production process?
Contact Us
Request material
Simply fill out the application form and get in touch
Applications