Introduction
Relay performance heavily depends on contact materials, which directly impact electrical conductivity, durability, and resistance to arcing. While traditional materials like pure silver, copper, or silver-cadmium (AgCd) have been widely used, silver alloy contacts are now leading the industry due to their superior performance. At MEISHUO, we utilize high-performance silver alloy in our relays, ensuring longer lifespan, lower contact resistance, and enhanced reliability for demanding applications.
The Evolution of Relay Contact Materials
1.Pure Silver (Ag)

- High conductivity but prone to welding and oxidation.
- Limited lifespan in high-current switching.
- Better arc resistance than pure silver.
- Cadmium is toxic, leading to environmental restrictions (RoHS compliance issues).
- Excellent arc resistance and anti-welding properties.
- Used in high-load applications like automotive and industrial systems.
- Superior conductivity and mechanical strength.
- Lower contact resistance than pure silver or oxide-based materials.
- Enhanced resistance to erosion and material transfer, extending relay lifespan.
- Automotive – EV charging, battery management systems.
- Industrial Automation – PLCs, motor controls, and power distribution.
- Renewable Energy – Solar inverters and wind turbine controls.
- Smart Home & IoT – Reliable switching in smart appliances.