FABRICATION AND PROPERTIES OF FeCrC REINFORCED COPPER ALLOYS BY MECHANICAL ALLOYING

In this study, properties and fabrication of FeCrC reinforced copper alloys by mechanical alloying were examined using mechanical grinding, optical microscopy, energy dispersive spectroscope, X-ray diffraction, and hardness testing. MA had a very good ability to mix Cu-FeCrC particles. High FeCrC provided more cold work during milling. Thus, smaller crystallite size and greater internal stress occurred in Cu alloys. High performance Cu was further strengthened by a combination of fine grain and alloying. C23C6, Cr7C3 and α–Cu detected in the structure. The hardness of Cu increased significantly after grinding with FeCrC.