Vacuum soldering meets high-performance ceramics
The challenge? Ceramics and metal have completely different properties – from thermal expansion to chemical structure. The connection requires highly specialised processes such as MoMn metallisation, active soldering and vacuum processes under a controlled atmosphere. This is precisely where the importance of strong partnerships comes into play.
How did our partnership with Listemann come about?
On recommendation, we contacted Listemann, a leading specialist in vacuum soldering and active soldering technologies, in March 2021. Our goal was to expand our partner network for vacuum soldering of ceramic-metal connections, thereby creating more flexibility for our customers.
From collaboration to joint investment
The decisive step came in 2023: when Listemann purchased a new vacuum furnace with hydrogen process gas, we participated with an investment in controlled process gas humidification. This secured us preferential use of the furnace capacities: a clear commitment to a long-term partnership.
At the same time, we jointly developed the MoMn metallisation process for Al₂O₃ ceramics. In mid-2023, we started implementing the first series product: an important milestone that took the partnership from the development phase to the production phase.
What added value does this partnership bring to our customers?
The collaboration with Listemann enables us to offer:
✓ Complete solutions from a single source – ceramic components including metallisation and soldering
✓ Greater delivery reliability – backup capacities allow us to respond more flexibly to enquiries
✓ Technological excellence – access to state-of-the-art vacuum soldering technology with H₂ atmosphere
✓ Secured capacities – preferential access through joint investment
Listemann's core technical competencies – particularly in the field of vacuum soldering with gold active solder and its many years of expertise in complex soldering technologies – perfectly complement our ceramic manufacturing. The result is complete, turnkey solutions for our customers.
More insights: The full interview with Listemann
How does the collaboration work on a day-to-day basis? What technical challenges had to be overcome? And how do we see the strategic direction of the Engineering Ceramics division?
Our colleagues Stefan Pfadenhauer (Head of the Engineering Ceramics Division) and Stephan Scherge (Development Engineer) answer these and other questions in a detailed interview on the Listemann website:
➡️ Read the full interview at Listemann
Do you have a project involving ceramic-metal connections?
Our team in the Engineering Ceramics Division will be happy to advise you on the technical possibilities and work with you to develop the optimal solution for your application.