LAUSR

Abstract The (Cu−10Sn)−Ni−MoS2 composites, prepared by powder metallurgy, were studied for the effects of Ni-coated MoS2 on the microstructure, mechanical properties and lubricating properties. The mechanism of effects of Ni and MoS2 on the properties of composites was analyzed through a comparative experiment by adding Ni and MoS2 separately. The results show that the nickel wrapping around the MoS2 particles decreases the reaction rate of MoS2 with the copper matrix, and greatly improves the bonding of the matrix. The composites with 12 wt.% Ni-coated MoS2 (C12) show the optimum performance including the mechanical properties and tribological behaviors. Under oil lubrication conditions, the friction coefficient is 0.0075 with a pressure of 8 MPa and a linear velocity of 0.25 m/s. The average dry friction coefficient, sliding against 40Cr steel disc, is measured to be 0.1769 when the linear velocity and pressure are 0.25 m/s and 4 MPa, respectively.