Fabrication of Carbon-Copper Composites Using Local Carbon Material: Microstructure, Mechanical, Electrical and Wear Properties

Abstract

The carbon-copper (C-Cu) composites combine the positive characteristics of thermal and electrical conductivity from Cu, low thermal expansion coefficient and lubricating properties from conventional graphite. For that particular application, C-Cu composites are widely used as electrical contact devices such as carbon brushes and current-collector for railway power collection system. Due to economic and environment concern, activated-carbon produced from MPOB’s oil palm kernel shell (OPKS) is studies as replacement for conventional graphite. The OPKS is crushed and mixed with copper and resin powder before it is compacted into shape. Then the green body undergoes warm-compaction (1140MPa;100-150°C) followed by post-baking (150-250°C) process to enhance its properties. The physical and mechanical properties of the C-Cu composite were analysed. The resulting microstructures, electrical and wear properties also are presented and discussed. The prototype of current-collector for PUTRA LRT and carbon brushes for electrical applications was produced from this research work.