Study of Deep Cryogenic Treatment Process Effect on Microstructure and Properties of CuBeZr Alloy

Abstract

The aim of this research was study the influence of the Deep Cryogenic Treatment (DCT) on the microstructure transformation and materials properties of beryllium copper alloy (CuBeZr alloy). Microstructure analysis such as size, shape and number of precipitates were studied by Optical microscopy (OM) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Microstructure analysis showed that transformation into the rod shape precipitates appeared after the process. The dispersion of CuNi precipitates and CuNiZr precipitates in the ⍺ matrix after deep cryogenic treatment was found to be increased. The change in number of CuNi precipitates and CuNiZr precipitates led to an increase in hardness and wear resistance. The maximum increase in hardness of 11% was observed with 48 hours soaking time with a reduction in surface wear of approx. 60%.