Effect of TiB₂ particle size on the material transfer behaviour of Cu–TiB₂ composites

Abstract

Cu-5.8vol.-%TiB₂ composites reinforced with different sized TiB₂ particles were prepared by spark plasma sintering (SPS). The arc erosion resistance was examined using a JF04C electrical contact instrument. The results indicate that the TiB₂ particle size and contact currents have important effects on the material transfer mode. Both lower mass loss and relative mass transfer was observed in the Cu-5.8vol.-%TiB₂ composites reinforced with fine TiB₂ particles (10 um, 30 um) compared to those with coarse TiB₂ particles (70 um, 110 um). The investigation and analysis of the microstructure and arc erosion mechanism show uniform distribution of fine TiB₂ particles in the copper matrix can significantly improve the viscosity of the molten pool and decrease the splashing of molten Cu.

KEYWORDS:

• Cu-5.8vol.-%TiB₂ composite
• TiB₂ particles size
• arc energy
• arc erosion
• material transfer

Acknowledgements

This work was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant Nos. 51605146 and U1502274); The China Postdoctoral Science Foundation (grant number 2018M632769); Henan Plan Project for College Youth Backbone Teacher (grant number 2018GGJS045).

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China [grant number 51605146; U1502274]; The China Postdoctoral Science Foundation [grant number 2018M632769]; Henan Plan Project for College Youth Backbone Teacher [grant number 2018GGJS045].