A significant proportion of the semi-finished products supplied by Swissmetal are processed into contacts for electronics and electrical engineering, such as contact pins, contact rails and other components of connectors. These components are used in such diverse fields as computers, the aircraft industry, telecommunications and the automotive industry.

Manufacturers and users of connectors require materials to have specific physical, mechanical or chemical properties. In this context copper and copper alloys offer an ideal combination of desirable properties.

Electrical conductivity is the decisive criterion in guaranteeing an effective flow of current between connected parts; this is particularly true in the area of power engineering. Mechanical and chemical properties are also of great significance. Mobile connectors must be able to cope with a large number of connection and disconnection cycles, so high static and dynamic strength is required.

Since the frictional forces must remain equal, freedom from corrosion (as well as meeting all the other specifications) is essential. Corrosion can also adversely affect the contact resistance between the constituent parts of the connector.

In addition to achieve these material properties essential to faultfree operation, semifinished products have to be suitable for further processing. Our semifinished products are easy to work, or are very readily machinable if lead is added. Swissmetal alloys are eminently suitable for electroplating with a whole range of elements such as gold, silver, nickel and tin.

Our copper alloys, which are used in the manufacturing of connectors, can be divided into various categories on the basis of their mechanical or physical grades.