Aluminum Foam Transition Washer for Power Connections

The aim of this study is to compare the efficiency of the Belleville washers commonly used in bolted joints with those made of aluminium foam material. Aluminium foams are a new class of materials with very interesting properties such as enhanced abilities for energy and sound absorption, as well as enhanced impact, insulating and shielding characteristics. Bolted joints, assembled with the Belleville washers and those made of aluminium foam, were subjected to current cycling tests. The changes in the connection resistance, contact temperature and contact force were continuously monitored and used as the qualifying indicator of the join performance.