Kovar is a specialized ferrous alloy that is made up of nickel and cobalt. It is designed to have the same chemical composition as Fernico 1, and it exhibits almost identical thermal expansion properties as borosilicate glass. This unique characteristic makes it the ideal material for creating a tight mechanical bond between the two materials, even over a wide temperature range.
Uses of Kovar
Kovar is extensively used in the creation of glass-to-metal seals in various scientific equipment. Additionally, conductors that enter glass envelopes of electronic components such as vacuum tubes (valves), X-ray and microwave tubes, and some lightbulbs require the use of Kovar to form sturdy and durable seals.
Why Kovar is Necessary for Glass-to-Metal Seals
Creating a dependable glass-to-metal seal is difficult in electronic equipment such as light bulbs, vacuum tubes, and cathode ray tubes. Similarly, vacuum systems in chemistry and scientific research also require specialized seals. This is because most metals have a coefficient of thermal expansion that is different from glass. As a result, most metals cannot connect to glass materials. When the sealed joint cools after the manufacturing process, the tensions caused by the difference in expansion rates of glass and metal can result in the breakage of the junction.
Kovar’s unique thermal expansion properties make it especially valuable and essential to use with borosilicate glass to create sturdy, durable glass-to-metal seals. Kovar has become an industry standard material, especially for electronic components that require a dependable glass-to-metal seal over a wide temperature range.
FAQ
What is Kovar made of?
Kovar is a ferrous alloy made of nickel and cobalt.
What are the uses of Kovar?
Kovar is mainly used in creating glass-to-metal seals in various scientific equipment. It is also used to form sturdy and durable seals with conductors that enter glass envelopes of electronic components and vacuum systems in scientific research and chemistry.
Why is Kovar necessary for glass-to-metal seals?
Kovar’s chemical composition and thermal expansion properties are almost identical to those of borosilicate glass. This unique characteristic allows for a tight mechanical bond between the two materials, especially over a wide temperature range, making Kovar essential for creating dependable glass-to-metal seals.
Final Thoughts
Kovar is an important material in the manufacturing industry, especially for applications that require a dependable glass-to-metal seal. Its unique thermal expansion properties are responsible for providing a tight mechanical bond between metal and glass materials. Choosing the right material ensures that your equipment and components remain functional and secure for an extended period of time.
