Which metal is preferred for use in relay contacts?

Silver is preferred for use in relay contacts primarily because of its excellent electrical conductivity and relatively low resistance. This quality is critical for ensuring efficient operation and minimizing energy loss in electrical circuits. Silver also exhibits good mechanical properties, ensuring that the contacts can withstand repeated opening and closing without significant wear or degradation over time.

Additionally, silver has a high melting point, which helps maintain performance under the thermal conditions that might arise from electrical arcing during contact operation. Although other metals like gold and copper also have favorable properties, gold is often used where corrosion resistance is a priority, especially in lower power applications, while copper may not perform as well in relay contacts due to issues such as oxidization. Aluminum, while lightweight and conductive, does not provide the same level of conductivity and durability as silver, making it less suitable for relay contacts.