Update on development of new generation of cathodes using additive manufacturing methods

In recent years, manufacturing of dispenser cathodes has become more challenging. Cathodes for new devices are smaller, dimensional and geometric tolerances are tighter, thermal and electric requirement are more demanding. At the same time, with advancement in scandate cathodes technology, it is clear that our traditional manufacturing techniques, based on decades old methods, may not be sufficient once this new technology is fully developed and scaled up to manufacturing. For that reason, we at Ceradyne Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of the 3M Company, are looking into alternative manufacturing methods to address these challenges.