Microstructure and mechanical properties of PM Fe–Cu–Sn alloys containing solid lubricants

The microstructure and mechanical properties of Fe–Cu–Sn alloys containing graphite and talc were investigated and compared with those of wrought bronze. The influence of sintering temperature on the formation of microstructure and mechanical properties of the sintered alloys was studied. Microstructural investigations were carried out by means of optical microscopy and X-ray diffraction. In the initial stages of sintering (melting temperature of Fe–Cu–Sn peritectic), the liquid is distributed between grain boundaries. During the later stages of sintering, the liquid dissolves the iron and a solid solution of iron in the copper is formed. Microstructure analyses showed that during sintering iron based Fe–Cu–Sn–C solid solutions and copper based Cu–Fe–Sn–C solid solutions are formed.