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Advanced Ceramics in Electronics and Technology

Alumina Ceramic (Al₂O₃)

Advanced Ceramics are used in electronics and technology. It has unique properties that make it serve important insulative, sensor, resistive, capacitive, magnetic functions, and electrooptic in electrical and electronic circuitry. In this article, we will explore the applications of Advanced Ceramics in Electronics and Technology.

 

1. Properties of Advanced Ceramics in Electronics and Technology
Advanced Ceramics are known for their excellent electrical and thermal properties. They have high thermal conductivity, which makes them ideal for heat sinks, helping to dissipate heat from electronic components. They also have high dielectric strength, which makes them suitable for electronic components such as resistors, capacitors, and insulators.

 

AlN and Alumina ceramic

 

2.Advanced ceramic materials with high electrical performance
Alumina: Alumina Ceramic (Al₂O₃) are a common ceramic material used in electronic components. It has high dielectric strength, and high thermal conductivity, and is resistant to wear and corrosion.

Aluminum Nitride: Aluminum Nitride (AIN) is used in many electronic applications due to its ability to quickly dissipate heat, which makes it a more efficient material, unlike most electrical insulating materials.

Atmospheric Pressure Sintered Aluminum Nitride, like Hot Pressed Aluminum Nitride, has excellent dielectric strength properties but is specified for use in applications with extreme temperature fluctuations.

 

AlN ceramic

Hot Pressed Aluminum Nitride has excellent dielectric strength and excellent thermal conductivity, making it ideal for semiconductor applications.

 

Silicates: Silicates are Typically used in cost-effective technical applications where electrical resistivity is required.

Mullite has excellent thermal shock properties and dielectric strength. Steatite ceramics have low dielectric losses and high dielectric strength, and are inexpensive to manufacture.

Silicon Carbide (SiC): Silicon Carbide is a ceramic material used in high-power electronic devices such as power converters, inverters, and motor drives. It has high thermal conductivity, high electron mobility, and can operate at high temperatures.

 

Alumina ceramic

 

3. Advantages of Ceramics in Electronics and Technology

Ceramics have several advantages over other materials used in electronics and technology. Some of these advantages include:

1. Durability: Ceramics are highly resistant to wear and corrosion, making them ideal for use in harsh environments.

2. High Temperature Resistance: Ceramics can operate at high temperatures without degradation, making them ideal for high-temperature applications.

3. High Dielectric Strength: Ceramics have high dielectric strength, which makes them ideal for use in electronic components such as capacitors and insulators.

4.High Thermal Conductivity: Ceramics have high thermal conductivity, which makes them ideal for use in heat sinks, which help dissipate heat from electronic components.


Applications of Boron Nitride in the metallurgical industry

1. Protective Materials
During the steel smelting process, it can be used as a protective material to protect metal materials.

 

For example, in the continuous casting process, Boron Nitride (BN) can be used as a protective slag to effectively prevent slag inclusion defects in castings and reduce the wear of the tundish and crystallizer.

 

In addition, BN can also be used as a filter material for molten metal to filter out impurities and gases in the metal and improve the quality and purity of the metal.

 

BN SETTER

 

2. Thermal materials
Due to its high thermal conductivity and good thermal stability, this material can be used as a thermal material in the metallurgical industry.

 

For example, in the steel smelting process, BN an be used as the main material for high-temperature equipment such as crucibles and thermocouple sleeves, and has good high-temperature oxidation resistance and high-temperature strength.

 

In addition, it can also be used as a lining material for high-temperature furnaces to improve the service life and safety of the furnace.

 

BN CRUCIBLE

 

Example: crucibles, boats, liquid metal delivery pipes, rocket nozzles, high-power device bases, molten metal pipes, pump parts, cast steel molds for melting and evaporating metals, manufacturing high-temperature components, rocket combustion chamber linings, spacecraft thermal shields, and corrosion-resistant parts for magnetofluid generators.

 

3. Heat-insulating materials
Boron nitride has very good heat insulation properties and can be used as heat insulation material in metallurgical industry.

 

BN MIXER

 

For example, in the continuous casting and rolling production line of iron and steel enterprises, boron nitride can be used as heat insulation materials such as heat insulation plate and heat insulation sleeve, which can effectively reduce the heat exchange between high temperature billets and air, and improve the production efficiency and product quality. In addition, boron nitride can also be used as heat insulation material for high temperature furnace to reduce heat loss and energy waste.

 

Examples: manufacture of high temperature components, rocket combustion chamber lining, heat shielding of spacecraft, corrosion-resistant parts of magnetic current generators

 

4. Processing tools
Boron nitride has great wear resistance and lubricity, and can be used as machining tools in the metallurgical industry.

 

BN NOZZLE

 

For example, in metal cutting processing, BN can be used as a tool coating material to improve the wear resistance and service life of the tool.

 

In addition, BN can also be used as abrasives, abrasives and other processing aids to improve processing efficiency and surface finish.


The feacure of Cearmic Reflector

Ceramic reflector is designed to reflect and direct light efficiently with various applications. Compared with traditional reflectors made by metals like aluminum, our ceramic reflectors are crafted by advanced ceramic materials 99 Alumina ceramic which has several advantages:

 

1.Optical Properties: Alumina has high reflectivity in certain wavelengths. It can control diffusion of light more precise and control over light distribution and efficiency, which makes ceramic reflectors suitable for optical systems, specialized lighting applications, and scientific instruments.

 

2.Thermal Stability: compared with metals, Al2O3 has higher thermal stability which can withstand much higher temperature without deforming or losing their reflective properties. It makes ceramic reflectors an ideal component where heat resistance is crucial, such as in industrial furnaces, high-intensity lighting and automotive headlight.

 

3.Electrical Insulation: 99 Alumina is an excellent electrical insulators. In applications where electrical conductivity of reflector could have safety risks, it requires to use an electrical insulation material like Alumina.

 

4.Corrosion Resistance: Alumina has an extreme corrosion resistance. This property makes it more durable and longer service life in environment exposed to chemical and moisture conditions.

 

The Alumina ceramic reflectors play an important role in industries where requires to use heat-resistant and robust materials with excellent electrical insulation and optical properties. It can be found the application in various industries and technologies with high strength, thermal stability, and excellent electrical insulation. Some common applications of alumina ceramic reflectors include:

 

*Optical Systems
*High-Intensity Discharge Lighting
*Infrared Heating
*Semiconductor Manufacturing
*Industrial Furnaces and Kilns
*Microwave Applications
*High-Temperature Environments

 

BAB299 ceramic reflector

 

Typical Models
• BAB – the external shape is round like BAB330-130, BAB192, BAB275, BAB350.
• ZAB – the external shape is irregular like ZAB-S04-30.
• LAK – the external shape is rectangular but one side is concave like LAK311.
• EAB – the external shape is rectangular;
• GAZ – the external shape is triangular;
• Description of part number: CRDP-XX-YY-Z-AAA-BBB

 

Ceramic laser reflectors

 

Innovacera Ceramic laser reflectors are high reflectance cavities used in solid state and CO2 laser systems. Our range of custom ceramic reflectors offer significant advantages and improvements over those made with materials such as metal and polymer, it work particularly well in Ruby and Nd: YAG laser pumping chambers and used extensively for long-life laser reflectors.

 

The use of ceramic reflectors represents a significant advancement. Their ability to withstand high temperatures, resist corrosion, and maintain reflective efficiency makes them invaluable in applications ranging from optical systems to semiconductor industry. Moreover ceramic reflectors contribute to sustainability by improving energy efficiency and reducing maintenance costs over the long term.


High Temperature Magnesia Stabilized Zirconia

INNOVACERA presented new material High temperature Magnesia Zirconia which is also called Magnesium Stabilized Zirconia Ceramic. It is a great refractory and insulating material due to high oxygen ion conductivity, high strength and toughness, and good themal shock resistance. it has a clean melt at temperatures above 1900’C and above and is specially manufactured for melting superalloys and precious metals. its superior thermal shock resistance to temperatures reaching up to 2200℃.

 

The Magnesia Stabilized Zirconia is with porosity 1-18%, so it’s different from normal MgO-ZrO2. This material is often used as sizing nozzles in continuous casting,ladle slide plate, setter plate in metal powder industry, gas atomizing nozzle.

 

Sizing nozzle for molten steel
The sizing nozzle made of Magnesia Zirconia is with very high properties including high mechanical strength, very good thermal shock resistance, good corrosion resistance, erosion resistance and low thermal expansion.

 

The sizing nozzles are installed at the bottom of the continous casting tundish. The molten steel will flow into a mold through the sizing nozzles. The diameter of the nozzle can be changed by customers’ requirement.

 

Sizing Nozzle

 

MSZ plate for Ladle Skateboard
The Magnesia Zirconia plate is often used to inlaid with ladle slide which is also working in continuous casting of high oxygen steel, high calcium steel, high manganese steel and other steels. The Zirconia (ZrO2) plate is with high corrosion resistancce and low expansion. Then it will increase the woking life of the stateboard, reduce the cost. The dimension can also be customized.

 

Ladle Skateboard

 

Magnesia Stabilized Zirconia Setter Plate
Due to MSZ with good chemical resistance , high temperature resistance and no chemical reaction with fired ceramic parts, it’s widely work as setter plate ceramic capacitors, sensitive parts, magnetic materials and other electronic components.
Max working Temperature: 2600℃
Working Environment: Atmospheric Environment, Vacuum, Atmospheric Reduction

 

Setter Plate

 

Gas Atomizing Nozzle for Metal Powder Industry
MSZ nozzle is an ideal choice for almost all common metal and alloy powders. The working temperature is 2200℃ max in air, vacuum or gas protection environment.

 

Gas Atomizing Nozzle


Introduction of Mass Spectrometer Filament

INNOVACERA is glad to offer new standard filament assemblies, a critical component in mass spectrometry applications for the analytical and medical industries.

 

Principle of mass spectrometer filament

Mass spectrometer filament is also called ion source filament or cathode filament. It is mainly made of high melting point metals such as tungsten (W) alloy or molybdenum alloy. Its function is similar to that of ordinary filaments. It mainly produces electron emission under high pressure and excites gaseous molecules into ions, thereby generating the charge-to-mass ratio signal required for mass spectrometry.

 

Tungsten Filament

 

These filament supports are manufactured using 96% alumina, selected for its good electrical insulation and high temperature stability. Customers can choose between two and four-pin options, with the pins brazed into the alumina insulator ready for filament welding. Our brazing process makes the filament considerably more resistant to higher temperatures, around 700°C compared with standard adhesives, which can only typically withstand up to 350°C.

 

Filament

 

The function of the mass spectrometer filament

In a mass spectrometer, the mass spectrometer filament is the main part of the ion source. Its role is to excite gaseous molecules into ions, and then screen and measure the charge-to-mass ratio. It is one of the core components of the mass spectrometer for mass spectrometry analysis.

 

The working principle of the mass spectrometer filament mainly involves the emission of electrons after being heated in a vacuum. These electrons are accelerated through the ionization chamber under the action of the electric field, and lose energy after colliding with gas molecules, which eventually leads to the ionization of gas molecules to form positive ions. This process is the basis of the work of the ion source in mass spectrometry analysis.

 

Filament

 

Type of Electron beam emitter

  1. TungstenFilament
  2. LaB6  cathode
  3. TFE(Thermal Field Emitter)
  4. Code Cathode

 

Below is the detail properties.

Electron Source  Tungsten Filament LaB6 Cathode TFE Cold Cathode
Luminance(A/cm2./sr) -105 -106 -108 -109
Capacity range(eV) 1-3 1-2 0.6 0.3
working pressure(Pa) <10-3 <10-5 <10-7 <10-8
Working temperature(K) -2700 -1800 1700-1800 Room temp
Lifetime(time) 40-100 200-1000 >5000 >10000

 

Many years of manufacturing experience with ceramic-to-metal assemblies means we can work closely with customers to tailor designs to their requirements or produce constant runs of standard designs ensuring quick turnaround and delivery.

 

If you need customized filament, pls contact with us.


Hot-Pressed Aluminum Nitride Heater Cover Introduction

Hot-pressed aluminum nitride ceramics are sintered using vacuum hot pressing, a process more challenging than normal pressure sintering. The purity of aluminum nitride can reach 98.5% (without any sintering additives), and the density after hot pressing reaches 3.3 g/cm3. Additionally, it exhibits excellent thermal conductivity and high electrical insulation, ranging from 90 W/(m·K) to 210 W/(m·K).

 

The material is hard and brittle, making it difficult to process. Consequently, it is prone to nicks or scratches during handling or processing, leading to a high scrap rate.

 

Aluminum Nitride Heater Cover

 

The thinnest thickness is only 0.75 mm, and the processing difficulty is also relatively high.

 

Applications of hot-pressed aluminum nitride heater covers:

– Semiconductor Cover Heater

– Cover and MRI equipment (magnetic resonance imaging)

– High-power detectors – Plasma generators – Military radios

– Electrostatic chucks and heating plates are used for semiconductors and integrated circuits.

– Infrared and microwave window materials

 

Aluminum Nitride Heater Cover

 

Material Properties

1. Uniform microstructure

2. High thermal conductivity (70-180 W/(m·K)), customized through processing conditions and additives

3. High resistivity

4. Thermal expansion coefficient is close to that of silicon

5. Corrosion and erosion resistance

6. Excellent thermal shock resistance

7. The material exhibits chemical stability up to 980°C in H2 and CO2 atmospheres, and up to 1380°C in air (surface oxidation occurs at around 780°C; the surface layer protects the bulk material up to 1380°C).

 

Typical specifications:

Purity: >98.5%
Density: >3.3 g/cm3
Compressive strength: >3,350MPa
Flexural strength: 380MPa
MGray and gray-black: >90W/(m·K)
Coefficient of thermal expansion: 5.0 x 10-6/K
Max. temperature:: 1,800°C
Volume resistivity: 7×1012Ω·A copper-oxygen eutectic form that successfully bonds with copper and oxides used as substrates
Dielectric strength: 15 kV/mm

 

Aluminum Nitride (AlN) is an excellent material when high thermal conductivity and electrical insulation properties are required, making it ideal for thermal management and electrical applications. Additionally, AlN is a common replacement for Beryllium Oxide (Be) in the semiconductor industry because it does not pose a health hazard when processed. The thermal expansion coefficient and electrical insulation properties of AlN closely match those of silicon wafer materials, making it a useful material for electronic applications where high temperatures and heat dissipation are often an issue.

 

Aluminum Nitride Heater Cover

 

AlN is one of the few materials that offer both electrical insulation and high thermal conductivity. This makes AlN very useful in high-power electronic applications as a heat sink and heat spreader.


What role does ceramics play in the semiconductor industry?

Semiconductor chips are ubiquitous in modern technology. They are essential in the evolution of various electronic devices and systems, including smartphones, smartwatches, computers, automobiles, big data, cloud computing, and the Internet of Things (IoT). Semiconductor equipment comprises thousands of components, whose performance, quality, and precision directly influence the reliability and stability of the equipment. Consequently, a significant amount of precision ceramic parts is required in semiconductor equipment.

 

Advantages of Precision Ceramics

Ceramics are utilized extensively due to their high hardness, high elastic modulus, high wear resistance, excellent insulation, good corrosion resistance, and low expansion. These properties make ceramics suitable for components in various semiconductor devices such as silicon wafer polishing machines, thermal processing equipment (epitaxy/oxidation/diffusion), lithography machines, deposition equipment, semiconductor etching equipment, and ion implantation machines. The main types of semiconductor ceramics include alumina, silicon nitride, aluminum nitride, boron nitride, and silicon carbide and so on. In semiconductor equipment, precision ceramics account for approximately 16% of the total value.

 

 

Applications of Ceramics in Semiconductor Equipment

Here is an overview of the different ceramic components used in various semiconductor processes:

 

 

1.Chemical Mechanical Planarization (CMP)
– Ceramic polishing tables
– Ceramic polishing plates
– Ceramic lapping plates
– End Effector
– O-ring ceramic sealing

 

2.Lithography machine
Vacuum chuck
– Wafer chucks
– Ceramic worktables
– End Effector
– Ceramic working wheels
– Ceramic valves
– Ceramic filters

 

3.High-Temperature Processing (RTP/Epitaxy/Oxidation/Diffusion)
– Ceramic Insulators
– Ceramic substrates
– Wafer boats
– Furnace tubes
– Cantilever paddles

 

4.Deposition equipment
– O-ring ceramic sealing
– Ceramic valves
– Chamber covers
– Chamber liners
– Deposition rings
– Electrostatic chucks
– Ceramic Heating elements
– Electroplating insulators
– Vacuum break filters

 

5.Etching
– Domes
– Chambers
– Focus rings
Ceramic Nozzles
– Electrostatic chucks
– End effector

 

6.Ion Implantation
– Ceramic Bearings
– Vacuum chuck
– Electrostatic chucks
– Ceramic Nozzles

 

Ceramic Nozzles

 

Commitment to Quality and Innovation

Innovacera integrates advanced technologies and continuously pursues research and development. We approach each customer’s requirements with a scientific and rigorous attitude, striving for excellence to produce products that best meet our clients’ needs. We welcome detailed inquiries and look forward to providing more ceramic solutions and professional service for you!

Feel free to contact us with your specifications and requirements.


Ceramic Vacuum Brazing: Unlocking the Potential of Ceramic to Metal Bonds in High-Tech Applications

Ceramic materials, with their high melting points and excellent insulating properties, present significant challenges when it comes to joining them with metals. Traditional welding methods often struggle to create strong and reliable bonds. However, advancements in joining technologies have introduced Vacuum Brazing as a highly effective solution. This process not only overcomes the limitations of ceramics but also leverages the benefits of both materials to create composite components.

 

Ceramic and Metal Vacuum Brazed Assemblies

 

Vacuum brazing is particularly advantageous due to its ability to join ceramics and metals at high temperatures in a vacuum environment, which minimizes oxidation and other unwanted reactions. Ceramic-to-metal sealing process often involves the use of a brazing filler metal, which can be tailored to the specific materials being joined. One such technique is Active Metal Brazing, where a reactive element in the filler metal, such as titanium in Ag-Cu-Ti, activates the ceramic surface, facilitating a strong bond.

 

When considering the joining of ceramics to metals, the high melting points and poor thermal stability of ceramics present a formidable challenge. Traditional welding methods often fall short, but Vacuum Brazing has emerged as a superior alternative. This process capitalizes on the unique properties of both materials, creating strong and reliable Ceramic to Metal bonds.

 

Vacuum brazing of metals and ceramics

 

While there are various methods for joining ceramics and metals, including mechanical joining and solid-state diffusion bonding, Vacuum Brazing offers a combination of performance, cost-effectiveness, and ease of implementation that is unmatched.

 

The process of Vacuum Brazing involves the use of a brazing filler metal that melts at a lower temperature than the materials being joined. In the case of Ceramic to Metal bonding, Active Metal Brazing with Ag-Cu-Ti powder as the filler metal is particularly effective. The active element, titanium, reacts with the ceramic surface, cleaning and activating it for a stronger bond.

 

For instance, when brazing Al2O3 ceramics with 304 stainless steel, metallized ceramic surfaces are prepared, and AgCu is used as the brazing filler metal. The Vacuum Brazing process ensures that the resulting joints can withstand high-temperature tests, demonstrating exceptional hermeticity and reliability.

 

Ceramic activation interface

 

The use of Active Metal Brazing in Vacuum Brazing allows for the achievement of shear strengths of up to 130 MPa in brazed joints. This highlights the significant potential of Vacuum Brazing in creating durable Ceramic to Metal connections that are suitable for a wide range of applications.

 

As research in this field progresses, Vacuum Brazing continues to evolve, offering ever-improving joint strength and versatility. It stands as a critical technology in material joining, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the creation of Ceramic to Metal composite components.


Ceramic Cores in High Voltage Resistors: Engineering Excellence for Power Applications

High voltage resistors are essential components in electronic circuits where precision, reliability, and safety are paramount. Among the various types of materials used for high voltage resistors, ceramic cores stand out for their exceptional properties and suitability for demanding applications. Generally the high voltage resistor ceramic cores material is alumina ceramic and it can used as alumina ceramic heater.

 

Characteristics of Ceramic Cores
Ceramic cores used in high voltage resistors are typically composed of a blend of ceramic materials and metal oxides, carefully formulated to achieve specific electrical and mechanical properties. Key characteristics include:

 

High Dielectric Strength: Ceramic materials inherently offer high dielectric strength, allowing resistors to withstand high voltages without electrical breakdown or insulation failure.

 

High Stability: They provide excellent stability over a wide range of operating temperatures and environmental conditions, ensuring consistent performance in critical applications.

 

Low Temperature Coefficient: Ceramic cores can be engineered to have a low temperature coefficient of resistance (TCR), minimizing variations in resistance values due to changes in temperature.

 

Ceramic resister core for high voltage resistor

 

Mechanical Robustness: Resistant to physical damage and stress, ceramic cores maintain structural integrity under mechanical load, vibrations, and thermal cycling.

 

Advantages of Ceramic Core High Voltage Resistors
Reliability: Ceramic cores contribute to the overall reliability of high voltage resistors by maintaining stable electrical characteristics over time, reducing the likelihood of failure or performance degradation.

 

Precision: They allow for precise control of resistance values and tolerance levels, critical for applications requiring accurate voltage division and current limiting.

 

Compact Design: Alumina Ceramic materials enable the production of compact resistors suitable for densely packed electronic assemblies, saving space and enhancing circuit design flexibility.

 

Wide Operating Temperature Range: High voltage resistors with ceramic cores can operate effectively across a broad temperature range, from extreme cold to high heat environments, making them versatile for diverse industrial and automotive applications.

 

Applications in Various Industries
Ceramic core high voltage resistors find extensive use across several industries:

 

Power Electronics: In power supplies, inverters, and converters, where reliable voltage regulation and current limiting are essential.

 

Medical Equipment: Used in high voltage power supplies for medical devices, ensuring safe and precise operation.

 

Industrial Automation: In motor controls, robotics, and industrial machinery where high voltage components must withstand rigorous operating conditions.

 

Telecommunications: Found in communication equipment, antennas, and transmission systems requiring stable performance in varying environmental conditions.

 

Manufacturing and Design Considerations
The manufacturing of ceramic core high voltage resistors involves advanced techniques such as precision mixing of ceramic powders, shaping, and firing at high temperatures to achieve the desired electrical and mechanical properties. Design considerations include selecting appropriate ceramic materials, electrode configurations, and protective coatings to optimize performance and longevity.

 

Ceramic cores play a critical role in the development of high voltage resistors, offering superior electrical properties, mechanical robustness, and reliability.As technology advances and demands for efficiency and reliability grow, ceramic core high voltage resistors continue to evolve, meeting the stringent requirements of today’s power electronics and industrial sectors.


Ceramic and Metal Medical X-Ray Tubes: The Future of Analytical Instruments Components

Innovacera Advanced Materials is a leading manufacturer of medical X-ray components, specializing in the production of a comprehensive range of products that combine the precision of metal with the exceptional properties of ceramics. Our expertise in Analytical Instruments Components is evident in the high-quality anodes, cathodes, X-ray tubes, and getter assemblies we produce. We leverage our advanced Ceramic-to-Metal Sealing technology to provide robust and reliable components that are tailored to meet the unique challenges of the X-ray market.

 

Our medical X-ray products are designed to seamlessly integrate various metal components with high-purity alumina (Al₂O₃) ceramics, which are known for their hermetic sealing properties. The use of Alumina X-ray power tube in our products ensures improved repeatability of focal spot positioning, longer tube life, and unmatched spectral purity. The flexibility in our design allows for customization to meet specific customer needs, while our consistent and repeatable manufacturing processes ensure cost-competitive production.

 

Metallized Ceramic cylinder

 

The hermetic Ceramic used in our components is a key factor in their reliability. It reduces the risk of seal leaks, offers thermal shock resistance, and is not limited by size constraints. The superior electrical performance of our components, which includes the use of hermetic Ceramic-to-Metal Sealing, allows for higher power and safety margin designs. Our innovative technologies extend the lifespan of X-ray tubes and highlight the many specific application benefits of combining ceramic and metal in our components.

 

We also offer custom solutions for other ceramic-to-metal components, such as feedthroughs and multi-pin headers, which are essential for Analytical Instruments Components that require precision and reliability.

 

For more information about our medical X-ray tubes and how our advanced technologies can benefit your applications, please contact us today.


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