Properties of Cold Spray Coatings for Restoration of Worn-Out Contact Wires

The influence of Cu-Al2O3-Zn powder mixtures for cold spraying on the properties of the coatings is studied. The coatings were deposited to restore worn-out copper contact wires, which were used as a substrate. The main parameters, such as adhesion, specific electrical conductivity, hardness, and wear resistance, were examined. The content of Al2O3 in the mixture varied from 30% to 60%, and the content of Zn, from 0% to 20%. The results obtained indicate that the 60Cu-40Al(2)O(3) coating was the most adhesive and showed the best conductivity, while 40% Cu-50% Al2O3-10% Zn was found to be the most wear-resistant. The optimum spraying temperature was 500 degrees C.