Fraunhofer Institute for Electronic Microsystems and Solid State Technologies EMFTTribology is critical to the performance of electrical connections, as it influences the interplay of friction, wear, and contact mechanics. The Fraunhofer EMFT investigates tribological properties at the macro-, meso-, and micro-scales in order to specifically optimize contact surfaces and increase the reliability and service life of electrical connections.
Tribology for electrical interconnection technology
Investigating and preventing friction corrosion in electrical contacts
Fraunhofer EMFT's friction-corrosion test rig for investigating the tribology of contact surfaces
A particular focus is on the study of friction corrosion in electrical contacts. In this context, various contact surfaces and coatings are evaluated in terms of their tribological properties and long-term reliability.
Friction Corrosion of Contact Surfaces
At Fraunhofer EMFT, various surfaces and coatings are investigated for their resistance to friction corrosion. For example, thiol-coated silver surfaces have been extensively evaluated and analyzed.
Heavily oxidized surface of a connector after a friction experiment
Using a specially developed friction corrosion test rig, failures can be specifically induced, and different surfaces can be compared under defined conditions to assess their long-term reliability. The results enable the targeted optimization of surface coatings and the derivation of application-specific recommendations for reliable electrical contacts.
In addition, Fraunhofer EMFT supports companies in analyzing the causes of friction corrosion and evaluating typical damage mechanisms. Together with our partners, we develop customized strategies to prevent failures and increase the reliability of electrical connections.
Simulation of Contact Surfaces and Friction Wear in Electrical Contacts
Using digital twins, Fraunhofer EMFT analyzes electrical connections on three levels:
Macro level: Investigation of the influence of individual contacts on the entire assembly to develop thermomechanically and electrically optimized designs.
Mesoscale: Evaluation of the mechanical properties of specific connections, including contact forces as well as deformation and relaxation behavior.
Microscale: Analysis of material properties such as surface roughness and microstructure to accurately predict contact resistance and wear.
The combination of these scales provides a comprehensive picture of electrical connections and enables more precise development, optimized testing, and greater reliability across a wide range of applications.
Simulation of contact surfaces and frictional wear of electrical contacts