Effect of Liquid Phase–Assisted Sintering on the Microstructure, Mechanical Properties, and Tribological Behavior of Self‐Lubricating Ferrous Composites

A current challenge to the development of self‐lubricating metal matrix composites by conventional powder metallurgy is the dispersion of lubricant lamellar particles between the metal powders during mixing and compaction. This event hinders neck formation during sintering, negatively affecting the mechanical properties of the material. Sintering in the presence of a liquid phase can improve both densification and the distribution of lubricant particles in the microstructure of the composite material. Herein, the effect of the addition of copper in composite powder mixtures as the liquid‐phase agent on the microstructure, mechanical properties, and tribological behavior of ferrous matrix self‐lubricating composites is evaluated. Increasing the contents of copper improves the homogenization of alloying elements, the continuity of the matrix, and the morphology of discontinuities. These phenomena result in self‐lubricating composites with superior mechanical properties and tribological behaviors. Herein, the effect of the addition of copper as a liquid‐phase agent on the microstructure, mechanical properties, and tribological behavior of ferrous matrix self‐lubricating composites is evaluated. Increasing the contents of copper improves the homogenization of alloying elements, the continuity of the matrix, and the morphology of the discontinuities. These phenomena result in composites with superior mechanical and tribological performance.