EXPORT, PA -- Researchers at AMI DODUCO, a Technitrol Company (NYSE: TNL), presented a technical paper on optimizing copper-tungsten electrical contact materials at this month’s 49th Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) Holm Conference on Electrical Contacts in Washington, D.C. The Holm Conference is the world’s leading engineering forum on electrical contacts and related subjects.

Copper-tungsten powder-metal contacts are used in many high-current and high-voltage power distribution devices such as circuit interrupters, transformer tap changers, vacuum contactors, and oil and SF6 circuit breakers. “Due to the heavy load placed on them, these contacts are subject to deterioration due to arcing, and they have a tendency to stick together,” explained Chi Leung, Director of Research and Development at AMI DODUCO North America.

In the study, AMI DODUCO researchers found microstructure modifications that can reduce contact welding and arc erosion, resulting in longer electrical contact life. For designers of high-power electricity distribution equipment, this can mean lower contact costs and improved product reliability.

The paper, titled “Microstructure Effects On Reignition and Welding Properties of Copper-Tungsten Electric Contacts,” was written by Chi Leung, Eric Streicher, Dennis Fitzgerald and Dan Illich of AMI DODUCO.

Headquartered in Export, Pennsylvania, AMI DODUCO is a global leader in electrical contact technology and fabrication. The company supplies contacts and assemblies, contact materials, thermostatic and laminated metal products, electroplating and surface treatment services, and precious metal refining and recycling to more than 3,000 customers. AMI DODUCO operates from locations in North America, Europe and Asia. The company’s website is www.amidoduco.com.