CHICAGO – Researchers at AMI DODUCO will present successful test results of a promising electrical contact material for thermostatic controllers today at the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 46th Annual Holm Conference on Electrical Contacts.
Thermostatic controllers are used in a variety of large and small household appliances such as electric ranges, water heaters, furnaces, toasters, irons and blow dryers. As heat settings are changed, the controllers close or open electrical circuits slowly, resulting in heat buildup that can shorten the life of electrical contacts by causing them to stick together.
Researchers Volker Behrens, Ph.D., Thomas Honig and Andreas Kraus of AMI DODUCO - Europe tested several contact materials in a model thermostatic controller. They found that a doped silver tin oxide formula outperformed conventional materials, exhibiting lower contact resistance, less tendency to stick and longer life. They produced the environmentally friendly material using AMI DODUCO’s patented “reaction spray,” a process that creates metal powder by instantaneously evaporating an atomized aqueous solution containing the desired ingredients.
“The appliance controller market is an important segment for us,” said James J. Rafferty, Jr., AMI DODUCO President and CEO. “We work closely with some of the largest controller producers to develop and supply high-performing, cost-effective electrical contact solutions. This research is a product of that collaboration, and we are excited to present it.” The annual Holm Conference is the world’s leading engineering forum on electrical contacts and related subjects.

Headquartered in Export, Pennsylvania, AMI DODUCO, a Technitrol Company (NYSE: TNL) 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 14 locations throughout North America, Europe and Asia.