Material Engineering & Refractory Alloys

CTI specializes in the production of high-performance contact materials, categorized by their thermal resistance and conductivity profiles.

Our expertise in powdered metallurgy allows us to engineer specific compositions that balance arc erosion resistance with superior electrical transfer.

  • Operational Range: 15A to 3,000A
  • Standard Compliance: Components for use in UL and IEC/IEEE-approved systems.

1. Refractory Metal Composites (High Melting Point)

For applications involving extreme thermal stress, we manufacture silver and copper refractory contacts. The addition of Tungsten (W), Tungsten Carbide (WC), or Molybdenum provides the high melting points necessary to resist welding and arc erosion.

  • Silver Refractory: AgW, AgWC
  • Copper Refractory: CuW, CuWC
  • Performance: Engineered for high-voltage environments where durability against mechanical wear and electrical pitting is critical.
  • Best For: High-amperage switchgear, circuit breakers, and grid infrastructure where severe arcing occurs.
Arcing Contact
MCCB Contacts

2. Graphite & Silver Composites (High Conductivity)

When maximum conductivity is the priority, CTI provides silver and copper graphite composites. These materials offer excellent lubricating properties and resistance to welding, making them ideal for specific sliding and switching applications.

  • Compositions: AgC (Silver Graphite), CuC (Copper Graphite), and Fine Silver.
  • Thermal Limit: These non-refractory materials are designed for high-conductivity requirements with a thermal ceiling of 950°C (1,742°F).
  • Best For: Precision sliding contacts, signal brushes, and stationary contacts.
Stationary Contacts
Stationary MCCB Contact

Material Selection & Application Support

CTI’s expertise in powdered metallurgy and contact engineering extends beyond production to the design stage itself. 

We work directly with customers to specify the optimal material for each application — balancing conductivity, arc erosion resistance, mechanical wear, and cost — rather than forcing a one-size-fits-all solution.

  • Our Approach: Collaborative material and grade selection, from prototype through production.
  • What We Optimize: Conductivity, arc and weld resistance, wear life, and total component cost.
  • Best For: Customers developing new components or improving the performance of existing designs.

Put our material expertise to work on your application

Start Here

Contact our engineering team to get started

Contact Us