Optimization of current-carrying friction and wear properties of copper-carbon composite materials based on damage

This study investigated the friction and wear properties and current-carrying properties of copper-graphite composites paired with brass C28000 on a self-made current-carrying friction test machine. The results indicate that the current-carrying properties of the copper-graphite gradient composite materials are excellent, the core factor limiting its service properties is its wear rate. With the increase in the thickness of the Cu-5wt% graphite layer, the unevenness of the damage improves. The composite material with a Cu-5wt.% graphite layer thickness of 8/5 mm exhibits friction and current-carrying properties close to that of the composite material with a Cu-5wt.% graphite layer thickness of 4 mm. It has a higher electrical conductivity by approximately 20% and a higher hardness.