Conventional Sintering Effects on the Microstructure and Electrical Characteristics of Low-Voltage Ceramic Varistor

Abstract

Conventional, free or pressure less sintering is the simplest technique which involves heating of a powder compact, previously prepared at ambient temperatures, without applying any external pressure. It can be conducted with various box furnaces or tube furnaces under different atmospheres (oxidizing, reducing, inert, and vacuum). Through the use of this method, a highly applicable varistor can be mass produced. Varistors are of a particular interest for modern surge protection of over-voltage. Nowadays, ZnO ceramic varistors are most favorable in electronic industry due to their excellent electrical characteristics and high energy handling capabilities. By optimizing the method during sintering process, the number of potential barriers formed can be controlled thus improving the capability of the low-voltage varistor.

The influence of conventional sintering on the microstructure and electrical properties of ZnO-based varistor

“…Varistors are essential semiconductor devices that protect electronic equipment from power system voltage spikes due to their strong non-linear current-voltage characteristic. The sintering process plays a crucial role in determining the microstructure and electrical characteristics of varistors [6]. To complete the sintering process for ZnO-based varistors, several materials, and equipment are needed.…”

Hardness Evaluation of 88Cu-4Pb-4Sn-4Zn Alloy by Mechanical Alloying with Oxidizing Atmosphere

“…Conventional sintering with or without pressure, previously prepared compact powder, is heated. This process is carried out on furnaces (box or tube) under controlled atmospheres: oxidizing, reducing, inert and vacuum [14].…”