Effect of alloying elements on mechanical properties in Cu-15%Cr in-situ composites

The effects of alloying elements on the mechanical properties as well as electrical conductivity in Cu-15%Cr (mass fraction) in-situ composites were systematically studied and high strength and high electrical conductive Cu base in-situ composites have been developed. The best combination is the addition of 0.1% to 0.2% Zr, Ti, or Sn in Cu-15%Cr in-situ composite, thermomechanical treatment to refine the microstructure and optimizing the precipitation of second phase. The strength is controlled by high density of dislocations in the Cu matrix, the lamellar spacing of the second phase, and the fine Cr precipitates. The aging treatment to reduce solute atoms has a beneficial effect on the increase of electrical conductivity. The addition of Zr, or Ti of about 0.15% to 0.2% promotes the precipitation of Cr particles.