Optical evaluation of the surfaces of the CuAlBe samples after the test of resistance to harsh wear stresses in an explosive atmosphere

Abstract

A material with both non-sparking and good mechanical properties based on CuBe-Al elements was proposed for anti-sparking materials intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres (design and manufacture of technical equipment, tools and implements intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres). The alloy was obtained using a classical induction furnace from Cu-Be master alloy and pure Al. Using hot-rolled bands (heated to 800 °C and rolled from ingots with 10 mm diameter to 2 mm thickness plates) experimental devices were made to perform laboratory tests in explosive mixtures for the acceptance of spark arresting materials intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres. A hard wear process by forcefully applying some steel elements to the experimental CuAlBe alloy was carried out in an enclosure with an explosive atmosphere consisting of an atmosphere with 10% H2. The main purpose of the tests is to verify whether or not the tested materials produce mechanical sparks. They are considered non-sparking materials and are checked/tested accordingly. Their appearance was not observed in the first 16000 friction tests between the two materials. The tests left deep traces of wear on the surface of the experimental alloys, leading to damage to their surface. The wear marks were analyzed macroscopically by optical microscopy (LOM). The test response after 16 000 frictions was negative to explosion and the material can be used as non spark alloy.