Preparation and arc erosion behavior of Ag-CFs contact materials with different CFs contents

Abstract

The incorporation of reinforcement phases is essential for enhancing the arc erosion resistance and anti-welding properties of silver (Ag)-based contact materials. However, the mechanism by which carbon fibers (CFs) affect the arc erosion behavior of the Ag matrix is not yet clear. In this study, Ag-based contact materials containing CFs were produced using a series of techniques, including electroless plating, ball milling, and the powder metallurgy method. The effect of CFs content on the arc erosion behavior of Ag-CFs contact materials was investigated. The results indicate that the interface between the copper (Cu)-plated CFs and the Ag matrix is tightly bonded. As the content of the Cu-plated CFs increases, the relative densities and conductivities of the materials decrease, and the hardness initially increases and then decreases. Experiments have shown that adding CFs could improve arc erosion resistance. Specifically, Ag-3.7 vol% CFs contact materials maintain relatively stable and low average arc energy and average arc time. The direction of material transfer is from the anode to the cathode, and the amount transferred is relatively minimal. The outcomes of this study provide a novel methodology for the development of Ag-C contact materials and pave the way for further investigations into the electrical properties of Ag-CFs contact materials