Study of rapidly solidified Cu-Cr-RE alloys

Electrical engineering materials of Cu-Cr-RE have been made using the technology of rapid solidification, composite green compacts, extrusion and so on. By means of the analysis of optical metallographs, electron microscopy, physical and mechanical properties as well as electrical properties, and the examining of the hardness, softening temperature, etc. the authors selected Cu-Cr-Y alloy, which has excellent comprehensive properties. The authors have also made a deep study of the chromium and yttrium elements, which affect the structure, the recrystallization temperature, the strength at room and high temperature, the resistivity and contact resistance, and have also compared the properties of the Cu-Cr and Cu-Cr-Y alloy. The results show that rapidly solidified technology and added rare-earth elements not only enhance the fine grain boundary strengthening, but also the second phase strengthening. Cu/Cu-Cr-Y composite material improves the thermal stability and thermal endurance, and also maintains a better electrical conductivity and thermal conductivity. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.