Effect of Co element on microstructure and mechanical properties of FeCo(X)NiCuAl alloys

FeCo(x)NiCuAl values in molar ratio, x=0.2, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2 and 3) alloys were prepared using a suck-casting method. The effect of Co element on phase constituents, microstructure and mechanical properties of the FeCo(x)NiCuAl alloys was investigated using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, optical microscopy and compressive tests. It was found that the Co addition has a significant influence on the structure and properties of the FeCoxNiCuAl alloys. The alloys have typical dendrite microstructure, and are composed of a simple fcc structure and bcc structure. The addition of Co promotes the formation of fcc phase in the alloys, retards the compressive strength and hardness of the alloys, and enhances the plasticity of the alloys.