Influence of service parameters on the current-carrying tribological properties of CF-Al₂O₃/Cu composites

PurposeThe effect of different service parameters on the current-carrying tribological properties of CF-Al2O3/Cu composites was investigated, and the damage behavior of the composites under different service parameters was probed. The purpose of this study is to provide a theoretical basis for the application of CF-Al2O3/Cu composites. Design/methodology/approachThe composites were fabricated by internal oxidation combined with powder metallurgy. The current-carrying tribological properties of CF-Al2O3/Cu composites were investigated on an electrical damage test system at different loads and currents. FindingsAs the load increases, the wear mechanism of the composite changes from abrasive wear to delamination wear. As the current increases, the oxidation wear and arc erosion of the composites gradually intensified. Under the service parameters of 0-25 A and 30-40 N, the composite has relatively stable current-carrying tribological properties. Originality/valueThis paper could provide a theoretical basis for the practical application of CF-Al2O3/Cu composites.