Through using water-atomized copper powder as matrix

adding SiC particles as particle reinforcement and iron as strengthening component

graphite as lubricant

SiC

p

/Cu composites were fabricated by the hotpressed sintered technology and powder metallurgy method. The friction and wear properties of the composites were investigated on MRH-3 tester at room temperature. The influence of SiC content on the mechanical properties and wear resistance of the composites prepared were expounded. The results reveal that the mechanical properties and wear resistance of the composites are superior greatly to those of oxygen free copper. The relative density of the composites is decreased gradually with increase of the porosity. In addition

hardness

bending strength and wear resistance of the composites are increased firstly and then decreased. The desirable compreshensive performance can be obtained with 7. 5% SiC

p

in the composites. The wear mechanism is characterized by abrasive wear and adhesive wear.