Tensile and Compressive Behaviour of Nano-Yttria-Dispersed W–Ni–Co Heavy Alloys Processed by Liquid Phase Sintering

Abstract

In this present study, yttria (Y₂O₃)-dispersed W–Ni–Co alloys were developed in order to enhance mechanical properties and self-sharpening behaviour. Nano-Y₂O₃, nickel and cobalt powders were milled in high-energy ball milling. Subsequently, it was blended with tungsten powder using ball mill. These powder mixes were compacted by CIP; subsequently, compacts were sintered followed by vacuum annealing. Tensile testing, compression testing and micro-hardness testing at room temperature were carried out. Nano-Y₂O₃-dispersed W–Ni–Co alloys show the tensile strength of 1270 MPa and compression strength of 3337 MPa due to nano-Y₂O₃ dispersion. Tensile fractography studies endorse the test result of high tensile strength in W–Ni–Co alloys. Micro-hardness of nano-Y₂O₃-dispersed W–Ni–Co alloy matrix phase after compression shows the hardness of 543 Hv, which is harder than its tungsten phase.