Tribological Properties of Copper-Based Composites with Lubricating Phase Particles
Abstract The results of research into influence of chemical composition on structure and tribological properties of copper-based composites intended for slide bearings are presented in this paper. The study was focused on copper alloys with lubricating phase particles in form of graphite, tungsten disulphide (WS2), molybdenum disulphide (MoS2) and glassy carbon. The metallic matrix of composite materials was composed of alloys from Cu-Sn-Zn system. The mass content of lubricating phase particles was from 5 to 20%. The process of production of subject materials included the processes conducted with full or partial contribution of liquid phase and it was conducted by two methods. Both the method of classic powder metallurgy and stir casting method were used for the production of composites. Lubricating phase particles heated to the temperature of 200°C were introduced to liquid metal bath and then the process of stirring and casting to moulds was performed. In case of production of composites by powder metallurgy, the process included mixing of bronze powders and lubricating phase particles, and then their consolidation. Sintering process was conducted in temperature between 750-800°C. The produced materials were tested in terms of microstructure and tribological properties with the CSM Instruments tribometer.