Densification and properties investigation of W-Mo-Cu composites prepared by large current electric field sintering with different technologic parameter

The novel W-Mo-Cu alloys, were successfully sintered by using large current electric field (as high as 105A) performed by Gleeble thermal simulation instrument. The effects of sintering time and sintering temperature on densification and properties of W-Mo-Cu alloys were studied. The field emission was proved to occur in the sintering process, which is conducive to achieve the low temperature and rapid densification of W-Mo-Cu composites. Also, the high Joule heat at interface of adjacent particles also contributes to the densification of the composite. Results also show that both the sintering temperature and sintering time have significant effects on the densification, micro-structure and properties of W-Mo-Cu composites. Appropriately increasing the sintering temperature or sintering time is conducive to enhance the densification and optimize the performance of the sample. On the whole, W-45 wt%Mo-10 wt%Cu composites sintered at 975 °C with a sintering time of 5 min exhibit maximum relative density (near 95%) and optimal comprehensive properties. The present study provides useful insights into the preparation of W-Mo-Cu composites. © 2018 Elsevier B.V.