Preparation and properties of copper matrix composite reinforced with SLM Fe alloy lattice

A novel copper matrix composite reinforced with Fe alloy lattice is prepared by combination of additive manufacturing and squeeze casting process. Printed by selective laser melting (SLM), the Fe alloy lattice was set in the mold and the copper melt was poured into it. Solidified under the pressure, the copper and the lattice were combined and formed a new kind of copper matrix composite reinforced by inerratic lattice. The morphology, hardness and wear property of the composite were investigated. The results indicate that the hardness of the composite with the lattice of 0.75 mm cell is enhanced to 118.7 HBW, which is much higher than that of the copper. Compared with the copper, the volume of wear loss of it is reduced to 42%. It is a new easy way to control the reinforcement distribution and properties of the composite effectively by altering the cell size of the lattice.