Consolidation and properties of Cu-TiC Composite by a reduction sintering and cold extrusion process

In the present study, titanium carbide (TiC) reinforced copper (Cu) composite was fabricated via powder metallurgy route. Cu-TiC powder mixture was prepared by a high-energy planetary ball milling process for 5h with TiC content varied from 1 to 5 wt%. The powder mixtures were then cold compacted at 200 MPa and sintered at 900°C for 2h. After sintering, sample were subjected to cold extrude and then characterized. The results obtained show that relative density decreases when TiC content increased. Result also shows significant improvement of wear resistance at higher TiC addition. An enhancing in tensile strength was observed at less than 2 wt% TiC, larger dose reduces tensile strength of the material. The higher TiC content, the lower electrical conductivity was recorded. Cold extrusion had improved mechanical properties and electrical conductivity of the material.