Preparation of copper-tin compacts by warm compaction route

Abstract

Copper - Tin compacts are currently used for preparation of self-lubricating bearings. These bearings have the potential to perform satisfactorily under severe test condition e.g. high speed, high load, high temperature and corrosive environment. In the present investigation copper- tin compacts have been prepared by a simple and yet versatile non-conventional warm compaction route. The influence of pressure. temperature. composition. sequence of operation on density. microstructure. morphology & phase evolution in the compacts were studied. Copper - tin - graphite compacts were also prepared and it has been observed that graphite does not affect the compact density. It actually improves the anti-seizure property. X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns and optical microscope examinations were carried out to identify the relative appearance of different phases. A comparative study has also been done to explore the advantages of this process over conventional one. It has been found that the liquid formed leads to very high densification.