An investigation of the structure and properties of infiltrated layer on the surface of copper alloy

This work reports about microstructure, hardness, adhesion strength, thermal fatigue and oxidation properties of the infiltrated layer on substrate of copper. The infiltrated layer was produced by vacuum infiltration casting technique using Ni-based powder as surface alloying particles. SEM observations indicated the formation of a compact infiltrated layer. The macro-hardness of the layer is about HRC 60 and the distribution of micro-hardness presents gradient change. The average micro-hardness of layer is about HV450. The transverse rupture strength (68–213 MPa) of the layer depends on layer thickness and layer orientation relative to loading direction. The layer appears to possess excellent oxidation resistance and superior thermal fatigue resistance at 800 °C.