Effect of Sintering Temperature on Microstructure and Mechanical and Bearing Properties of Iron Containig 15% Tribaloy

Tribaloy particles with a microstructure of a hard Laves phase in ductile cobalt or nickel matrix can be incorporated in bronze and steel materials by powder metallurgical methods. The Tribaloy content and the compacting and sintering conditions determine the microstructure and the mechanical and tribological properties of these materials. In this investigation the influence of the sintering temperature on the properties of Fe–Tribaloy mixtures was studied. Higher sintering temperature improves the bonding between Tribaloy particles and iron matrix; however, it decreases the heterogeneity of the composite which is necessary for optimum performance under conditions of dry or mixed friction. The best bearing materials are produced at intermediate sintering temperatures where a compromise between mechanical strength and tribological performance can be achieved. PM/0180