Immersion powder and method for producing the same

Abstract

The present invention provides a fusion powder and a method for producing the same, which exhibit excellent fusion rate and residue removal properties and do not cause erosion. [Solution] The present invention relates to an immersion powder with excellent penetration rate and residue removal properties, and to a method for producing the same, and provides an immersion powder consisting of 0.5 to 5% by weight of one or more elements selected from iron (Fe), nickel (Ni), and molybdenum (Mo), 0.6 to 1.8% by weight of titanium dioxide (TiO2), the remainder being copper (Cu), and 0.1% by weight or less of unavoidable impurities, and a method for producing the same. The produced immersion powder is suitable for use in automobiles or electrical and electronic components that require excellent mechanical properties.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to infiltration powders and a method for producing the same. More specifically, the present invention relates to infiltration powders having excellent infiltration rates for use in the automotive or electric and electronic fields where high mechanical properties are required, and a method for producing the same.

Background Art

[0002] Sintered bodies made of metal or non-metallic materials (hereinafter also referred to as "base materials" or "substrates") are widely used in various industrial fields. Such sintered bodies are mainly used in environments where wear resistance, heat resistance, and high strength are required, and various manufacturing methods and technologies have been studied to improve their performance.

[0003] In particular, the infiltration process is one of the methods often used to enhance the mechanical properties of sintered bodies. This process has the effect of increasing the density by infiltrating metals or the like into the pores of a porous sintered body, and enhancing mechanical strength, hardness, durability, thermal conductivity, etc. Generally, since the selection of the powder material used in the infiltration process greatly affects the final physical properties of the sintered body, the properties of the powder and the sintered body manufacturing technology using the same have become an important research field.

[0004] In conventional manufacturing technologies for infiltration sintered bodies, various metal powders are used to improve the properties of the sintered body, particularly density, mechanical strength, and durability. However, there are still limitations in terms of achieving a high infiltration rate (the ratio of the weight of the infiltration powder that has penetrated into the sintered body to the weight of the infiltration powder in contact with the sintered body) into the fine pores in the sintered body, and residue removal properties. In addition, since the performance of the sintered body varies greatly depending on the selection, composition, size, etc. of the powder material used in the infiltration process, there is a need to optimize this.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] To solve the above-mentioned problems, this invention provides a fusion powder (hereinafter also referred to as "fusion material") and a method for manufacturing the same, and proposes a technology to further improve the physical properties of sintered bodies. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] To achieve the above objective, the present invention provides an immersion powder comprising 0.5 to 5% by weight of one or more elements selected from iron (Fe), nickel (Ni), and molybdenum (Mo), 0.6 to 1.8% by weight of titanium dioxide (TiO2), the remainder being copper (Cu), and 0.1% by weight or less of unavoidable impurities.

[0007] The immersion powder may further contain 2 to 8% by weight of manganese (Mn). Preferably, the amount of manganese (Mn) is 4 to 6% by weight.

[0008] The aforementioned immersion powder may contain 1.1 to 1.3% by weight of titanium dioxide (TiO2).

[0009] The aforementioned immersion powder can exhibit a melting point in the range of 1120 to 1150°C.

[0010] The aforementioned fusion powder can achieve a fusion rate of 90% or more into the sintered body.

[0011] The aforementioned immersion powder can be used in automobiles or electrical and electronic components.

[0012] Furthermore, the present invention provides a method for producing immersion powder, which includes the step of forming a composition comprising 0.5 to 5% by weight of one or more elements selected from iron (Fe), nickel (Ni), and molybdenum (Mo), 0.6 to 1.8% by weight of titanium dioxide (TiO2), the remainder being copper (Cu), and 0.1% by weight or less of unavoidable impurities.

[0013] The problems that this invention aims to solve are not limited to the technical problems mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those with ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains from the following description. [Effects of the Invention]

[0014] The immersion powder and immersion-sintered body containing the same according to the present invention have the advantages of excellent immersion rate and residue removal, as well as the absence of erosion. Furthermore, they provide excellent mechanical properties and are suitable for use in the automotive or electrical and electronic fields. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0015] The terms used herein and in the claims should not be interpreted in a manner limited to their ordinary or dictionary meanings, but rather in accordance with the meanings and concepts that are consistent with the technical spirit of the invention, based on the principle that inventors can appropriately define the concepts of terms in order to best describe their invention. Accordingly, it should be understood that the configurations shown in the embodiments described herein represent only one of the most preferred embodiments of the invention and do not represent the entire technical spirit of the invention, and that a variety of equivalents and variations may exist that could substitute for them at the time of filing.

[0016] Unless otherwise specified, technical or scientific terms used in this invention shall have the meanings defined by those skilled in the art.

[0017] Any tool, apparatus, method, or substance named in this invention means a tool, apparatus, method, or chemical substance commonly used by those skilled in the art, unless otherwise specifically stated to be a tool, apparatus, method, or substance specific to this invention.

[0018] In this specification, unless otherwise specified in the context, terms such as “includes,” “contains,” and “contains” should be understood to mean that they include the stage, component, or group of stages or components mentioned, but do not exclude any other stage, component, or group of stages or components. Therefore, the use of terms such as “includes” means that the listed component is mandatory or obligatory, while other components are optional and may or may not be present. On the other hand, terms such as “consists of” and “consists of” mean that they include and are limited to only those listed before the expression “consists of” or “consists of.” Therefore, the expression “consists of” or “consists of” means that the listed component is mandatory or obligatory, and other components are not present.

[0019] Throughout this specification, terms such as “about” and “approximately” mean that the value is within a range of ±20% to ±1%, more preferably within a range of ±15%, ±10%, or ±5%, and most preferably within a range of ±10%.

[0020] The embodiments described below are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0021] Powder for infiltration (infiltration material)

[0022] The immersion powder according to the present invention consists of 0.5 to 5% by weight of one or more elements selected from iron (Fe), nickel (Ni), and molybdenum (Mo), 0.6 to 1.8% by weight of titanium dioxide (TiO2), the remainder being copper (Cu), and 0.1% by weight or less of unavoidable impurities.

[0023] The component composition of the immersion powder according to the present invention will be described below.

[0024] (1) Iron (Fe), Nickel (Ni), Molybdenum (Mo): 0.5-5% by weight In the powder for infiltration according to the present invention, one or more elements selected from iron (Fe), nickel (Ni), and molybdenum (Mo) are used. The total content of these in the powder for infiltration is 0.5 to 5% by weight. When the content is less than 0.5% by weight, the effect of preventing surface erosion of the iron-based sintered body as the base material is low. When it exceeds 5% by weight, although the infiltration characteristics are excellent, there is a problem of increasing the melting point of the infiltrant. Therefore, it is desirable to maintain the scope of the present invention.

[0025] More specifically, in the powder for infiltration according to the present invention, iron (Fe) plays a role in preventing surface erosion of the base material by strengthening the strength and providing hardness and toughness. Iron can be contained in the range of 0.5 to 5% by weight, preferably 1 to 5% by weight, more preferably 3 to 5% by weight. When it is less than 0.5% by weight, the erosion prevention effect is low. When it exceeds 5% by weight, although the infiltration characteristics are excellent, it is not preferable because it increases the melting point of the infiltrant.

[0026] Nickel (Ni) has the effect of preventing erosion of the base material and improving the infiltration rate, similar to iron. It also enhances corrosion resistance, improves mechanical strength, and improves oxidation resistance at high temperatures. Nickel can be contained in the same range of 0.5 to 5% by weight as iron, but it can show excellent effects even at a lower content than iron. Therefore, it is preferably contained in the range of 0.5 to 2% by weight, more preferably 1 to 2% by weight. When it is less than 0.5% by weight, the erosion prevention effect is low. When it exceeds 5% by weight, the economic efficiency decreases due to cost problems.

[0027] Molybdenum (Mo) plays an important role in maintaining strength and hardness at high temperatures, and enhances wear resistance and heat resistance. It also has the effect of preventing erosion of the base material and improving the residue peeling property, similar to nickel. Molybdenum can be contained in the same range of 0.5 to 5% by weight as iron, but it can show excellent effects even at a lower content than iron. Therefore, it is preferably contained in the range of 0.5 to 2% by weight, more preferably 1 to 2% by weight. When it is less than 0.5% by weight, the effect is insufficient. When it exceeds 5% by weight, the economic efficiency decreases due to cost problems.

[0028] Therefore, the three elements can be used in appropriate combinations, either individually or in quantities of 0.5 to 5% by weight, exhibiting complementary characteristics.

[0029] (2) Titanium dioxide (TiO2): 0.6~1.8% by weight

[0030] Titanium dioxide enhances the oxidation stability of the powder, improves its thermal properties, and increases its wear resistance. As an oxide, titanium dioxide remains after fusion, improving its ability to detach from the substrate. It also improves the powder's fluidity, promoting the formation of a uniform fused sintered body during the manufacturing process.

[0031] In the immersion powder, titanium dioxide is used in an amount of 0.6 to 1.8% by weight, preferably 1.0 to 1.4% by weight, more preferably 1.1 to 1.3% by weight, and most preferably 1.2% by weight. If the content is less than 0.6% by weight, it becomes difficult to achieve the effects described above, and if the content exceeds 1.8% by weight, excess residue remains, which can actually reduce the immersion rate. Therefore, it is desirable to maintain the range of the present invention.

[0032] (3) Copper (Cu): balance

[0033] In this invention, copper can be included as the main component of the immersion powder in the form of copper powder, copper alloy powder, copper partial alloy powder, etc. In the case of copper, since its melting point is lower than that of iron-based sintered bodies, the copper mixed powder melts when heated and is immersed between the iron-based sintered bodies by capillary action. This improves the strength and hardness of the iron-based sintered body.

[0034] (4) Manganese (Mn): 2-8% by weight

[0035] The present invention may further selectively contain manganese. Manganese plays a role in improving the elution rate, preventing erosion of the substrate, and improving the peelability of the residue.

[0036] Manganese is used in an amount of 2 to 8% by weight, preferably 2 to 6% by weight, more preferably 4 to 6% by weight, and most preferably 6% by weight. If the content is less than 2% by weight, it becomes difficult to achieve the effects described above, and if the content exceeds 8% by weight, the amount of residue increases, so it is desirable to maintain the above range.

[0037] (5) Inevitable impurities

[0038] The present invention may contain unavoidable impurities during the manufacturing process. These unavoidable impurities are not intentionally added but are inevitably introduced during the manufacturing process, and when controlled to 0.1% by weight or less, they do not significantly affect the properties of the present invention.

[0039] Selectively, the immersion powder of the present invention may contain a lubricant. If necessary, the immersion powder of the present invention may contain 0.1 to 1.0% by weight of a lubricant, and when this is included, the lubricity is improved, resulting in an immersion powder that is easier to mold.

[0040] The powder of the present invention can be produced by known methods such as atomization, reduction, electrolysis, and pulverization, and is not particularly limited. However, the average particle size of the powder of the present invention is preferably in the range of 1 μm to 150 μm. If the average particle size is less than 1 μm, it is difficult to handle and expensive, resulting in reduced economic viability. If it exceeds 150 μm, it can cause segregation, so it is desirable to maintain the above range.

[0041] The powder according to the present invention can be formed into a powder for immersion using known methods such as compaction.

[0042] The immersion powder according to the present invention has a melting point in the range of 1120 to 1150°C.

[0043] A fused sintered body can be formed by sintering the fusion powder and the sintered body together according to the present invention.

[0044] In the present invention, the immersion powder can be prepared by processes such as gas atomization injection or mechanical processing.

[0045] The sintered body can be prepared by a powder molding process using a press.

[0046] The sintered body can preferably be an iron (Fe) sintered body or an iron-carbon (Fe-C) sintered body, which have the advantages of easy operation by compaction molding, high productivity, excellent dimensional accuracy, and easy assurance of mechanical properties close to the required physical properties.

[0047] As described above, the immersion powder and the sintered body are heat-treated together to produce an immersion sintered body.

[0048] By bringing a sintered body into contact with an immersion powder and heating it, sintering and immersion can be performed simultaneously. As the heat treatment temperature rises, the molten immersion powder fills the pores of the sintered body by capillary action, filling the pores and thus improving the strength, hardness, and wear resistance of the sintered body.

[0049] The heating temperature may be in the range of 1000 to 1200°C, and more preferably in the range of 1120 to 1180°C.

[0050] The fused sintered body according to the present invention can exhibit a fusion rate of 90% or more, 91% or more, 92% or more, 93% or more, 94% or more, 95% or more, 96% or more, 97% or more, 98% or more, or 99% or more relative to the sintered body.

[0051] The hardness of the fused sintered body produced by the present invention is HRB40 or higher.

[0052] The fused sintered body according to the present invention is suitable for use in automotive or electrical / electronic components that require excellent mechanical properties. Automotive or electrical / electronic components can include vehicle transmission parts, vehicle air conditioning parts, compressor hubs, limiters, and the like.

[0053] The present invention will be described in more detail below through the following embodiments. The following embodiments are provided to illustrate the present invention more specifically, and the scope of the present invention is not limited by these embodiments.

[0054] Examples

[0055] <Manufacturing of immersion powder>

[0056] Immersion powders were prepared by mixing copper, iron, nickel, molybdenum, manganese, and titanium dioxide (TiO2), which were manufactured by conventional melting and atomization injection methods, as shown in Table 1 below.

[0057] <Manufacturing of fused sintered bodies>

[0058] A fused sintered body was manufactured by a method that involved heat treatment at 1000-1200°C through powder molding using a press.

[0059] The fused sintered bodies obtained for each example and comparative example were obtained using the elemental composition of the components disclosed in Table 1 below. For each example, the fusion rate and residue removal efficiency were measured according to the following method.

[0060] <Infiltration rate>

[0061] The penetration rate was calculated based on the following formula 1.

[0062] (Formula 1) Infiltration rate (%)=[W-Ws(1-Q / 100)] / [Wi(1-L / 100)]×100

[0063] W: Weight of the immersion powder after residue removal (g) Ws: Weight of sintered powder (g) Q: Lubricant mixed into the sintered body (%) (if present) Wi: Weight of immersion powder (g) L: Lubricant mixed in the fusion powder (%) (if present)

[0064] <Residue removal performance>

[0065] After heat treatment, the ability to remove residual residue was confirmed by visual inspection according to the criteria for the presence or absence of lumpy or powdery residue remaining on the base material. If no residue was found, it was marked as "good"; if residue was found, it was marked as "poor".

[0066] The results are shown in Table 1 below.

[0067] [Table 1]

[0068] As shown in Table 1 above, the fused sintered bodies produced in Examples 1 to 20 all exhibited a high fusion rate of 90% or more, good residue removal properties, and no erosion occurred.

[0069] On the other hand, Comparative Example 1 had a lower iron content compared to Example 1, resulting in some erosion and a decrease in the penetration efficiency.

[0070] Comparative Example 2 had an excessively high iron content compared to Example 3, resulting in a higher melting point of 1160°C for the fused powder.

[0071] Comparative Example 3 had a lower nickel content compared to Example 4, resulting in reduced fusion efficiency.

[0072] Comparative Example 4 had a lower molybdenum content compared to Example 7, resulting in reduced fusion efficiency.

[0073] Comparative Example 5 had an excessively high manganese content compared to Example 15, resulting in poor residue removal.

[0074] Comparative Example 6 had a lower titanium dioxide content compared to Example 10, resulting in poor residue removal.

[0075] Comparative Example 7 had an excessively high titanium dioxide content compared to Example 3, resulting in a decrease in the penetration rate to 89%.

[0076] As described above, the present invention relates to a fusion powder and a fusion-sintered body containing the same, which are excellent in terms of fusion rate and residue removal and do not cause erosion, and are suitable for use in automobiles or electrical and electronic components that require excellent mechanical properties.

Claims

1. 0.5 to 5% by weight of one or more elements selected from iron (Fe), nickel (Ni), and molybdenum (Mo), and 0.6 to 1.8% by weight of titanium dioxide (TiO2). 2 A solubilization powder consisting of the remainder being copper (Cu) and unavoidable impurities of 0.1% by weight or less.

2. The immersion powder according to claim 1, further containing 2 to 8% by weight of manganese (Mn).

3. The immersion powder according to claim 2, wherein the manganese (Mn) content is 4 to 6% by weight.

4. 1.1 to 1.3 wt% titanium dioxide (TiO 2 The immersion powder according to claim 1, which contains )

5. The immersion powder according to claim 1, having a melting point in the range of 1120 to 1150°C.

6. The immersion powder according to claim 1, exhibiting an immersion rate of 90% or more.

7. The immersion powder according to claim 1, for use in automobiles or electrical and electronic components.

8. 0.5 to 5% by weight of one or more elements selected from iron (Fe), nickel (Ni), and molybdenum (Mo), and 0.6 to 1.8% by weight of titanium dioxide (TiO2). 2 A method for producing immersion powder, comprising the step of forming a composition consisting of the remainder being copper (Cu) and unavoidable impurities of 0.1% by weight or less.

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