Arc erosion resistance mechanism of Cf–Al2O3/Cu composites modified by carbon fibers

Abstract

Cf–Al2O3/Cu composites were fabricated by introducing carbon fibers (Cfs) into Al2O3/Cu composite for further improvement of arc erosion resistance. The effect of Cf on the arc erosion behavior of the composites was discussed. It was revealed that a proper amount of Cf improved the arc erosion resistance of Cf–Al2O3/Cu composites. Compared with Al2O3/Cu composites, the arc energy of 5vol.% Cf–Al2O3/Cu composites decreased by up to 47.1%. The erosion morphology and elemental composition of the electrical contact surface under the action of arc were characterized. It was found that Cfs were easy to float on the molten pool surface during arc erosion due to the low density, which increased the viscosity of the molten pool and stabilized it. The Cfs were transferred preferentially compared with the Cu matrix, which reduced the loss of the matrix. Cfs retard the formation of anode surface bumps and avoided concentrated deterioration of arc erosion.

Keywords

• Cu matrix composites
• Carbon fiber (Cf)
• Al2O3 particles
• Arc erosion