Computer controlled testing and evaluation of welding contact materials

A computer-controlled test system designed for fast statistical evaluation of statical welding chacteristics of contact materials under power conditions is described. The weld test apparatus operates in an automatic cycle controlled by a PC. A multifunction program enables control, measurement, recording, display, and statistical determination of welding test results. The welding characteristics of Ag, AgNi, AgCdO, and AgSnO/sub 2/ are evaluated. Results of the tests using two testing methods are discussed. A fast method of statistical determination of maximum welding force is proven to be correct.<<ETX>>