Investigation of Cu-graphite composites prepared by electroforming

Abstract

Abstract In this work, Cu-graphite composites were prepared by electroforming technology in an acidic copper sulfate bath with graphite particles in suspension. The factors affecting the codeposition of graphite particles with copper were studied. At a particle concentration of 20 g l –1, a current density of 3 A dm– 2 and a stirring rate of 100 min–1 graphite content in the composites was 21.7 vol.%.Microhardness and friction coefficient of the composites decreased with increasing graphite content. However, wear mass-loss decreased, but increased with graphite content above 21.7 vol.%. The wear mechanisms of pure Cu and Cu-graphite composites were adhesive wear and delaminating wear, respectively.