Tribological behaviour of Cu-Zn based self-lubricating components reinforced with rare earth oxide Y2O3

Cu-Zn-based self-lubricating composites containing rare-earth oxide Y2O3 and lubricating phase graphite were prepared by discharge plasma flash burning method, and the effects of the addition of rare-earth oxide Y2O3 and graphite on the mechanical properties and friction and wear properties of Cu-based self-lubricating composites were investigated. The results show that the friction coefficient of Cu-Zn alloy with 3 wt% graphite added is 63.6% lower than that of ordinary Cu-Zn alloy; the comprehensive performance of the composite with the addition of 1 wt% of rare-earth oxide Y2O3 in mass fraction shows a peak effect, with the hardness increased by 41.5% and the coefficient of friction reduced by 25%. Rare earth oxide Y2O3 in the matrix to produce diffuse strengthening effect, refine the grain and matrix pores, improve the density of composite materials, the formation of a continuous lubrication film with excellent tribological properties.