Development and performance analysis of novel cast copper–SiC–Gr hybrid composites

Copper based composites having hard reinforcements like alumina, silicon carbide and cerium oxide possess higher strength, better wear resistance and higher coefficient of friction when compared to copper. However, they pose machining issues such as higher tool wear and rough surface finish. Conversely, copper composites with soft dispersoids such as graphite and molybdenum disulphide exhibit lower coefficient of friction and better machinability characteristics. Hence an attempt is made to develop a new class of copper based composite material by dispersing both hard and soft reinforcement in appropriate proportions to ensure optimum tribological characteristics. The present investigation deals with the development of copper–SiC–Gr hybrid composites by liquid metallurgy route. Metallographic study, microhardness, tensile strength, friction and wear tests have been conducted. The results show that the hybrid composites possess higher hardness, higher tensile strength, better wear resistance and lower coefficient of friction when compared to pure copper.