Copper Bronze Powder Surface Studied by XPS and HR SEM

Abstract

The state of the powder surface represents one of the main interests in the whole cycle of components' production using powder metallurgy (PM) INTRODUCTIONComponents produced by casting, forming, shaping and even made by near-net or netshape methods, often require further operations before the product is ready for use. Machining, which involves secondary and finishing operations, is usually applied at the end of the manufacturing process to meet all the demands required for the component [1]. Grinding is one of the most important finishing operations because of its capability to impart high dimensional accuracy and surface finish. Grinding is a metal cutting process using tools with multiple cutting edges provided by randomly bonded abrasive grits of natural and/or synthetic origin which remove material at high speed. Metal-bonded grinding wheels use the metal bond to hold the abrasive grit (cubic boron nitride, diamond, etc.) for high performance applications. Using different powder metallurgy (PM) techniques, abrasive grits are mixed with metal bond powder and some additives and subsequent bonding is carried out under high pressure and temperature. The high thermal conductivity, strength and wear resistance of Cu bronze makes it an interesting candidate for the metal bond [1][2][3][4]. Taking into account a high specific surface area of the powder in comparison with the bulk material, surface chemical state is one of the most important aspects determining usability of powder for PM processing. Exposure of the powder to the oxygen