Obtaining Ti–Cu–C system composite materials by SHS process

Abstract

 The aim of the research is to obtain wear-resistant products from composite materials of a new type using the SHS technology. The Ti–Cu–C system was selected taking into account the data available in the scientific and technical literature. Various SHS charge compositions consisting of titanium powder, copper powder, and carbon black were experimentally burned to determine compositions that can burn during the SHS process and provide a melt containing titanium carbide and titanium cuprides as a binder featuring higher mechanical properties and lower melting points than pure copper. Model samples of products in the form of bushings with an outer diameter of 70 and 110 mm were produced by burning the SHS charge with selected compositions in a reactor followed by the compaction of the resulting melt with a force of 50–60 t. After the rough workpiece electrical discharge machining, samples were cut out for phase analysis, X-ray spectral analysis, and wear tests. With an optimal ratio of SHS charge components, titanium carbide and a binder in the form of titanium cuprides of different compositions were revealed in the model sample material. Using the method of testing for wear when sliding on a fixed abrasive under a specific pressure of 1 MPa, it was determined that the relative abrasive resistance of the new material at a hardness of 50–52 HRC is 1.8–2.0 units in comparison with the hardened tool and die steel Kh12MFL. In order to implement the technology in practice, an algorithm was developed for calculating the compositions of the newly formulated SHS charge, while its principle is such a ratio of components where the introduced carbon forms titanium carbide with titanium, and the added excess titanium forms titanium cuprides with copper. The developed material can be considered as promising for use as elements of equipment operating under abrasive wear conditions. This development is patented, Patent No. 2691656 (Russian Federation).