Flat Platinum Wires: Applications & Specifications

Durable, flexible, and inert in even the most challenging working conditions, platinum is routinely deployed for precision wiring applications. The transitional metal’s malleability makes it relatively easy to work despite its high density. This means that both pure platinum and many of its high-performance alloys can be readily drawn into round wires of varying gauges. These rounds can be used directly or treated as an intermediary to high-performance flat platinum wires.

Why Use Flat Platinum Wires?
Electrical engineers are always looking towards the next innovation to improve upon existing products and systems. Though round cables often suffice, it is often hard to immobilize them within insulation. Gradual shifting of individual conductive elements can cause abrasion which leads to poor life cycles. It can also alter the conductor’s physical properties, which is problematic as electrical performance is almost always physically dependent. Flat platinum wires are increasingly preferable as they are less prone to movement.

This enables engineers to maintain cable stability and efficiency over longer periods. As flat platinum wires stay stationary without the need of additional adhesive or filler, they also lend themselves to low weight and low volume wiring configurations which translates to greater electrical density and packing efficiency. Additionally, platinum is unaffected by water and oxygen and is only soluble in aqua regia or fused alkalis, making it highly resistant to corrosion even at high temperatures.

Flat Platinum Wire Specifications

Specifications will, of course, depend on the round wire used and the accuracy of the rolling process. At XRF Scientific, we employ quality assured suppliers to deliver only the highest quality metals from the platinum group with guaranteed purities approaching 99.99%. These high purity rounds can then be rolled to flat, ribbon-like profiles with rounded edges and maximum widths of 0.01 inches.

The thickness of the flat platinum wire will depend on the gauge of the round. Rather than offer a nominal aspect ratio, we can work to absolute minimum thicknesses of 0.0005” and deliver all wires on a made to order basis. This means that you define the thickness you need, and we will supply a precision flat platinum wire that suits your needs.

Flat Platinum Wire Applications

With exceptional volume efficiency for demanding electrical applications, flat platinum wires are routinely leveraged for high performance electronic instruments. We have supplied ribbon wire to medical device manufacturers, potentiometer designers, as well as suppliers in commodity electronics who are looking for long-lasting electrical contacts and filaments.

Find More Semi-Finished Platinum Products

If you are looking to find out which of our flat platinum wire items are in stock, or need any semi-finished platinum solutions, why not contact a member of the XRF Scientific team today to see if we can help