Effect of composition and heat treatment on the structure and properties of condensed composites of the Cu – W system

Changes in the structure, electrical conduction, mechanical characteristics, and special features of fracture of a copper-tungsten composite obtained by the method of electron-beam evaporation-condensation are studied as a function of the composition of the material and its heat treatment. New morphological features of the condensed composite and the related changes in the properties are determined. Relation between the content of tungsten (in a range of 5 – 60 wt.%) in the condensate, the state of the material, its structure, electrical conduction, and mechanical properties is established. The structure and composition of condensates optimum from the standpoint of their application as materials for electric contacts are determined.