Kovar CNC Machining
XTJ Precision Mfg crafts precision Kovar alloy parts with unmatched expertise, tailored to your toughest project demands.
- Cost-Effective Pricing
- Product Certification
- Rapid Delivery
Your Trusted Partner for Kovar CNC Machining
Need Kovar alloy parts that perform flawlessly in aerospace or electronics?
XTJ Precision Mfg, an ISO 9001 certified manufacturer, brings over 20 years of expertise to deliver custom Kovar components with tolerances as tight as ±0.002 mm. Our advanced 3-, 4-, and 5-axis CNC machining, combined with Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM), ensures precision for even the most complex designs. From rapid prototypes to high-volume production, we offer tailored solutions with finishes like passivation or electroplating to boost durability and performance. Let’s turn your ideas into reality!
What is Kovar Alloy?
Kovar, or ASTM F15, is a nickel-cobalt-iron alloy prized for its thermal expansion properties that closely match those of borosilicate glass and ceramics. Composed of approximately 29% nickel, 17% cobalt, and 54% iron, with trace elements like manganese and silicon, Kovar ensures reliable hermetic seals across a wide temperature range (-80°F to 450°F). Its stability and machinability make it a top choice for precision components in electronics, aerospace, and medical applications.
| Element | Percent by Weight | Function in Alloy |
|---|---|---|
| Nickel (Ni) | 29% | Controls thermal expansion, improves corrosion resistance |
| Cobalt (Co) | 17% | Enhances thermal stability, adds strength |
| Iron (Fe) | ~54% | Forms the alloy base, affects magnetic properties |
| Silicon (Si) | ~0.2% | Improves melt quality, reduces oxidation |
| Manganese (Mn) | ~0.5% | Improves melt quality, reduces oxidation |
| Carbon (C) | ~0.02% | Refines grain structure, enhances strength |
Expert Kovar Alloy Machining at XTJ Precision Mfg
Kovar’s properties require specialized machining to achieve precision. XTJ employs the following techniques:
Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM)
Non-contact method for complex shapes, minimizing stress and maintaining material integrity with fine finishes.
CNC Machining
Using 3-, 4-, and 5-axis CNC machines with carbide tools for intricate designs and tight tolerances, optimized for Kovar’s work-hardening nature.
Laser Cutting
Precise cuts with minimal heat-affected zones, ideal for intricate patterns and high repeatability.
Tooling Requirements
Sharp carbide or diamond-coated tools with optimized edge angles (>25°) to reduce work-hardening and ensure clean cuts.
Design Tips for Kovar CNC Machining
To maximize Kovar’s performance, consider these design and machining strategies:
Match Thermal Expansion
Align Kovar’s CTE with adjacent materials to prevent stress during temperature changes.
Optimize Speeds and Feeds
Use lower speeds and higher feeds to minimize work-hardening and maintain precision.
Use Carbide Tools
Employ hard-tipped tools to withstand Kovar’s abrasiveness and extend tool life.
Pre- and Post-Annealing
Anneal before machining to relieve stresses and after to ensure dimensional stability.
Surface Finishing
Apply passivation or electroplating to enhance corrosion resistance and solderability.
Industries Served by Kovar CNC Machining
XTJ’s Kovar machining expertise powers industries that demand precision and performance
- Electronics: Hermetic seals for microchips, diodes, and semiconductor packaging.
- Aerospace: Components for satellites and aircraft that endure extreme temperatures.
- Medical: Nonmagnetic parts for MRI machines and biocompatible implants.
- Telecommunications: Shielded components for reliable high-frequency signal transmission.
- Optics & Scientific: Precision parts for lasers and measurement instruments.
Performance Features of Kovar for CNC Machining
Kovar’s unique properties make it ideal for precision applications where reliability is non-negotiable. Here’s why it’s a top pick:
- Thermal Expansion Match: Aligns with glass and ceramics for secure hermetic seals in temperature-varying environments.
- Dimensional Precision: Maintains stability for critical components in electronics and optics.
- Low Magnetic Interference: Controlled permeability ensures minimal disruption in sensitive devices.
- Machinability: Supports complex geometries and tight tolerances with advanced CNC techniques.
- Corrosion Resistance: Resists oxidation, ensuring durability in harsh conditions.
- Reliable Sealing: Creates airtight seals to protect electronics from moisture and contaminants.
How Kovar Compares to Other Metals
Kovar stands out for its unique properties, but how does it stack up against other metals? Here’s a comparison to help you choose the right material:
Property | Kovar Alloy | Aluminum | Stainless Steel | Copper | Titanium |
Composition | Fe-Ni-Co alloy | Al | Fe-Cr-Ni (varies) | Cu | Ti |
Thermal Expansion (ppm/°C) | 4.6–5.4 (at 30°C) | 23.1 | 17.3 | 16.5 | 8.6 |
Machinability | Moderate (special tools) | High | Moderate | High | Low |
Magnetic Properties | Magnetic | Non-magnetic | Usually non-magnetic | Non-magnetic | Non-magnetic |
Corrosion Resistance | Good | Excellent | Excellent | Good | Excellent |
Cost | Higher | Lower | Moderate | Moderate | Higher |
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Start Your Kovar CNC Machining Project?
Upload your design for a free quote or connect with our team to discuss your needs.