Enhanced properties of functionally graded Cu–Cr powder compacts

Abstract

Abstract The paper aims to present the processing and development of functionally graded Cu – Cr materials, widely used as a monolithic contact material in vacuum circuit breakers. Simple and novel processing routes, used in this study, in addition to being cost-effective and energy efficient, generate higher density and electrical conductivity of the Cu – Cr compacts. It is shown that the use of mechanically alloyed Cu – Cr powders enhances the properties of the compacts, as compared to those prepared from as-received powders. Furthermore, explosive compaction and application of coated powder were found to result in still better properties. Scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy were used to explain the scientific significance of this development.