Cobalt - Iron Alloy for Nonself-Latching Dry Reed Contacts

A Co-Fe alloy having a low electrical resistivity and a high Curie temperature suitable for use in high current-load reed contacts is described. The Co-12-14-wt% Fe alloy was selected as the optimum composition, considering its thermal-expansion matching with sealing glass. The Co-12-14-wt% Fe alloy shows sufficient electrical, magnetic, and mechanical properties for use in nonself-latching dry-reed contacts. These material properties are discussed in relation to their microstructure. Results of trial production of reed contacts made of the alloy are also discussed.