Failure analysis of braze interfaces in vacuum devices

J. Dylan Leber, Irina Molodetsky

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

Three practical examples of failure analysis of brazed ceramic-to-metal joints for rugged, hermetically sealed vacuum devices are presented. Manufacture of vacuum devices at PTC involves the joining of metallized Al 2O 3 ceramic to F15 alloy. Failures were observed as gas leakage into the vacuum envelope and subsequent failure in the operation of the vacuum devices. In each case, the vacuum leaks were isolated to the braze joint and failure analysis was performed to determine the cause of the failure. Methods of analysis included isolation of the gas leak to the braze joint, metallographic analysis, scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (SEM/EDS) and stylus profiler measurements. Causes of failure were determined to be related to: 1) deviations from ideal geometry in the joined parts, 2) the composition of the F15 alloy, and 3) materials issues at the ceramic joint interface.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationMaterials Science and Technology 2005 - Proceedings of the Conference
Pages3-15
Number of pages13
StatePublished - 2005
Externally publishedYes
EventMaterials Science and Technology 2005 Conference - Pittsburgh, PA, United States
Duration: Sep 25 2005Sep 28 2005

Publication series

NameMaterials Science and Technology
Volume2
ISSN (Print)1546-2498

Other

OtherMaterials Science and Technology 2005 Conference
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityPittsburgh, PA
Period9/25/059/28/05

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • General Engineering

Keywords

  • Brazing
  • Failure analysis
  • Vacuum

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