Optimizing Mechanical Strength in W-30Cu/xTiC Alloys via Solid-State Sintering: A Comprehensive Characterization

Abstract

The objective of this study is to investigate the influence of titanium carbide (TiC) on both the mechanical properties and microstructural characteristics of tungsten-copper (W-Cu) alloys. The manufacturing process adopted for this exploration employs solid-phase sintering, conducted at a temperature of 1,200°C under a uniaxial pressure of 30 MPa. This process is employed to synthesize W-30Cu/xTiC alloy powders, where 'x' denotes the weight percentages of 5, 10, and 15 for TiC. The alloys underwent a comprehensive analysis employing various analytical techniques to assess their mechanical and microstructural properties. These techniques include scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffractometry (XRD), density evaluations, hardness tests, and flexural strength testing. Notably, the incorporation of titanium carbide (TiC) resulted in substantial improvements in both hardness and flexural strength, with the alloy containing 15% TiC exhibiting a microhardness value of 1420±5 HV0.1 and a flexural strength of 1745 N/mm². Additionally, the sintering process led to a significant increase in density, rising from 8.6g/cm³ to 13.8g/cm³. These findings underscore the positive impact of TiC and the sintering process on the alloy's mechanical and structural characteristics.