Abstract
METHOD FOR FABRICATION OF C-CU COMPOSITES USING LOCAL OIL PALM KERNEL SHELL MATERIAL
Mohd Asri Selamat* and Ahmad Aswad Mahaidin
ABSTRACT
The carbon-copper (C-Cu) composites are known for their high electrical conductivity and good wear resistance. It?s combine the positive characteristics of thermal and electrical conductivity of Cu, low thermal expansion coefficient and lubricating properties from graphite/carbon. For that particular application, C-Cu composites are widely used as electrical contact devices such as carbon brushes for engine and current-collector for railway power collection system. Due to economic and environment concern, activated-carbon produced from Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB)?s oil palm kernel shell (OPKS) was studied as replacement for conventional graphite. The OPKS was crushed and mixed with copper and resin powder before it was compacted into shape. Then the green body undergoes warm-compaction (1140MPa;100-150?C) followed by post-baking (150-250?C) process to enhance its properties. The physical and mechanical properties of the C-Cu composite were analysed. The resulting microstructures, electrical and wear properties also are presented and discussed. The prototype of carbon brushes for electrical applications and current-collector for PUTRA LRT were produced from this research work.
[Full Text Article] [Download Certificate]