Layered electrically conductive structure and potentiometer comprising such a structure

Abstract

The invention relates to an electrical resistor (1) comprising an electrically conductive stack (10), which comprises a plurality of metal first layers (12) and second layers (14). The stack 10 allows to produce a highly anisotropic resistor (1), in which the resistance in the direction perpendicular to the layers (12, 14) is much higher than in the plane of the layers (12, 14). The anisotropy allows the current flowing through the stack (10) to be made homogenous, i.e. to be distributed over the entire stack surface, even if the current is input into the stack (10) in an inhomogenous manner.

Description

technical field [0001] This invention is in the field of conductive materials and generally relates to resistors. More particularly, it relates to resistors having a conductive stack comprising, inter alia, a plurality of metal layers. Background technique [0002] Many applications in power and automation technology require resistive materials whose resistance value or resistivity can be adjusted. Depending on the application, the resistive material should carry rated and fault currents, eg, up to at least tens of kA or more, and support voltages in excess of 1 kV. Resistors varying between 1mΩ and a few Ω, say 5Ω, may be required. [0003] Graphite materials have a resistivity that can be adjusted by adding suitable materials. However, graphite can locally overheat when a non-uniform current is applied due to its poor ability to distribute current evenly. As a result, hot spots can form and the material deteriorates or possibly even cracks. Contents of the invention ...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

However, graphite can locally overheat when an uneven current is applied due to its poor ability to distribute current evenly

As a result, hot spots develop and the material deteriorates or possibly even cracks

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