The effect of FeS film on the surface of iron powder particles on mechanical properties and fracture of Fe–Cu–C alloys

Abstract

This article provides a new kind of P/M processing by designing thin-layered FeS film coated on the surface of iron powder particles for preparing high density Fe–Cu–C materials. Experimental results showed that FeS lubricating coating on the surface of iron powder particles was significant as a means of reducing friction in the pressing process of Fe–Cu–C alloys. After being pressed, the green density increased from 7.18 to 7.42 g cm−3. The sintered density increased from 7.10 to 7.37 g cm−3. In the sintering process, the FeS was liquid, and useful in purifying particle surface and strengthening grain boundaries to improve the mechanical properties. The hardness and tensile strength of the Fe–2.0Cu–0.9C–0.5FeS2 material were 80.5 HRB and 590 MPa. Analysis of fracture showed the main fracture was transgranular fracture. And FeS spherical particles gathered in the pores of the Fe–Cu–C alloys.