Structure, microstructure and mechanical properties of PM Fe–Cu–Co alloys

Fe–Cu–Co alloys are the new generation of metal matrix for diamonds in powder metallurgy processed cutting tools. These alloys were created with the purpose of reducing the cobalt content in diamond tools. Nevertheless, little have been published, once this is a matter of industrial interest. In this work, samples of Fe–(15-30-45-60)wt.%Cu–20 wt.%Co alloys were processed by cold pressing at 350 MPa, followed by sintering at 1150 °C/25 min/10−2 mbar. Structures formed during sintering were studied by XRD and EDS. Micro-structural aspects were observed by SEM. Densification, hardness and wear tests were also performed. The alloy Fe–60 wt.%Cu–20 wt.%Co presented the best global results, suitable for use in diamond cutting tools.