GTMS Sealing Performance: 4 Effective Strategies for Improved Results

Glass-to-metal seals (GTMS) play a critical role in ensuring the integrity and performance of electronic components in various industries. To enhance the sealing performance of electronic GTMS, several key factors should be considered during the design and manufacturing process. By addressing these factors, the reliability and longevity of the seals can be significantly improved.

Material Selection and Seal Design:

Choosing the appropriate glass and metal materials is crucial for achieving a reliable GTMS. The coefficients of thermal expansion (CTEs) of the glass and metal components should be as closely matched as possible. This helps to minimize stress and strain on the seal during thermal cycling, reducing the risk of seal failure. Compatibility between the glass and metal materials also ensures good adhesion and bonding strength.The design of the GTMS should consider the mechanical and thermal stresses that the seal will encounter during operation. This includes optimizing the shape and dimensions of the seal to minimize stress concentrations. Rounded corners, smooth transitions, and appropriate thicknesses can help distribute stresses more evenly, reducing the risk of cracking or delamination.

Surface Preparation:

Thorough cleaning and surface preparation are essential for achieving a strong and consistent GTMS. Both the glass and metal surfaces should be free from contaminants, such as oils, dust, and oxides, which can hinder proper bonding. Surface treatments, such as etching or plasma cleaning, can be employed to enhance the surface roughness and promote better adhesion between the glass and metal.

Surface Oxidation Control:

When water vapor reacts with metal at high temperatures, three types of metal oxides, FeO, Fe3O4, and Fe2O3, are formed. Among these, Fe2O3 has a loose structure and exhibits lower bonding strength with glass. The degree of oxidation directly affects the thickness of Fe2O3, which in turn directly impacts the sealing effectiveness of the bond. The control of dew point in the furnace is essentially controlling the thickness of the oxidation layer. By controlling the thickness of the oxidation layer, the amount of Fe2O3 can be controlled, thus affecting the sealing effectiveness. The chemical bond between glass and Fe3O4 is similar, resulting in a tight bond.

Sealing Process Atmosphere Control:

The key to achieving consistent sealing performance lies in the intake structure during the high-temperature ramp. Any non-uniformity in the intake can result in inconsistent oxidation on the surface of the metal casing, leading to variations in the sealing effectiveness of the products. To address this, several critical points should be considered for atmosphere control. First, it is crucial to maintain a stable and consistent intake atmosphere throughout the process, as any fluctuations can affect the oxidation process and subsequent sealing performance. Additionally, achieving a homogeneous mixture of humidified nitrogen and dry nitrogen is essential to ensure consistent moisture levels, which directly impact the oxidation process and the quality of the seal. Lastly, the method of introducing the intake into the furnace chamber should be carefully designed to ensure uniform distribution, as uneven distribution can lead to localized variations in the atmosphere, ultimately affecting the oxidation and sealing process.

To improve the sealing performance of electronic GTMS, a comprehensive approach is required. We understand the importance of these factors and aim to simplify the process for you. Our advanced furnace is designed to meet the following specifications: Achieving across belt uniformity of ±2°C. We prioritize uniformity in the intake and exhaust processes to ensure consistent sealing results. Furthermore, we maintain tight control over the dew point inside the furnace, keeping it within the range of -50 to +30°C with an accuracy of ±1°C. Additionally, we regulate the oxygen content at various points to be less than or equal to 5ppm. By focusing on these crucial parameters, we aim to provide you with superior sealing performance for your electronic GTMS needs.

Torrey Hills is now your one-stop destination for all LTCC equipment needs, including 20 um line. Contact us today.