Promising Electrical-Erosion-Resistant TiB2–Ni–Ag Coating Formed by Two-Stage Treatment for Strengthening Copper Electrical Contacts: Structure and Properties

Key Points

• This research aims to investigate the effects of TiB2–Ni–Ag coatings on the properties of copper electrical contacts, particularly under erosion conditions.
• Coatings were formed using electroexplosive spraying followed by electron-beam treatment.
• The structure of the coatings was analyzed for compositions of silver, nickel, and various inclusions.
• Key properties like microhardness, nanohardness, Young’s modulus, wear rate, and friction coefficient were measured.
• The coatings exhibited enhanced microhardness and nanohardness compared to untreated copper.
• Electrical erosion resistance tests under arc conditions indicated significant improvement in durability.
• The wear rate and friction coefficient were notably reduced, highlighting the efficacy of the coating.