The choice of contact material for switches depends on the specific application, requirements, and factors such as electrical conductivity, wear resistance, corrosion resistance, and cost. Different contact materials offer varying levels of performance in different conditions. Here are some common contact materials used for switches and their characteristics:

Silver (Ag):

Good electrical conductivity.

Low contact resistance.

Suitable for low-current and low-voltage applications.

Prone to oxidation, which can increase contact resistance over time.

May not be ideal for high-temperature applications due to its low melting point.

Gold (Au):

Excellent electrical conductivity.

Highly resistant to corrosion and oxidation.

Low contact resistance.

Suitable for low-current and low-voltage applications.

Higher cost compared to other materials like silver. So some customer may require gold plating on surface to reduce the cost.

Silver-Nickel, Silver-Cadmium Oxide (AgCdO) and Silver-Tin Oxide (AgSnO2):

Blend of silver with other materials to improve performance.

Good electrical conductivity.

Enhanced resistance to arcing and welding due to the presence of cadmium oxide or tin oxide.

Commonly used in higher-power switches and relays.

Copper (Cu):

Very good electrical conductivity.

Lower cost compared to silver and gold.

Prone to oxidation and sulfide formation, which can increase contact resistance.

Often used in lower-cost switches and applications where occasional maintenance is acceptable.

Palladium (Pd):

Good electrical conductivity.

Resistant to oxidation.

Can be used in low-current applications.

Less common compared to other materials like silver and gold.

Rhodium (Rh):

Excellent resistance to corrosion and oxidation.

Very low contact resistance.

High cost.

Used in high-performance and high-reliability switches.

The choice of contact material depends on factors such as:

Application: High-power applications may require materials with better resistance to arcing and welding, such as AgSnO2, AgSnO2In2O3. Some materials are better suited for low-current or low-voltage applications, such as AgNi, AgCdO.

Ultimately, the best contact material depends on your specific requirements. It's a balance between electrical performance, reliability, environmental conditions, and cost. It's often a good practice to consult with switch manufacturers or experts in the field to determine the most suitable contact material for your application. You’re most welcomed to contact SHZHJ for material suggestion.