Effect of Matrix Alloying of Fe on Friction and Wear Properties of Cu-Based Brake Pad Materials

Abstract

Argon-gas-atomized Cu–Fe prealloyed powder was used to prepare Cu-based composites, and the effect of matrix alloying of Fe on microstructure and friction and wear properties of the brake pad material was systematically investigated on an MS3000 friction and wear tester. The results indicate that matrix alloying of Fe induces the precipitation of a uniformly distributed iron-rich phase at the interior of grains, the segregation of the iron-rich phase along SiO₂–matrix interface, and the formation of pearlite in the vicinity of the graphite–matrix interface, which favors the strengthening of copper matrix, improves interfacial bonding, and protects the third body. The prealloyed sample exhibits relatively high friction coefficient and enhanced friction stability, as well as reduced wear loss when the braking speed is lower than 200?km/h. At higher braking speed (>200?km/h), the breakage of the iron-rich phase leads to an unstable friction coefficient and high wear loss.