Study of microstructural transformations and dimensional variations during liquid phase sintering of 10% tin bronzes produced with different copper powders

The microstructural evolution during sintering of 10% bronzes obtained by mixing elemental powders was studied, in order to investigate the mechanisms responsible for microstructural homogenisation. consolidation of the green compacts, and dimensional variation. The effect of the copper powder was also studied using an electrolytic and an atomised commercial powder. As a consequence of the different surface area and surface chemistry, and of the presence of internal pores and microcavities in the atomised copper powder, the two mixes display significantly different dimensional behaviour but, under specific time and temperature conditions, they give rise to the same dimensional variation and the same microstructural characteristics. (C) 2002 IoM Communications Ltd.