Effect of binders addition on properties of the Fe-2Cu-0.8C premix

Fe-2Cu-0.8C premix was prepared by binding copper and graphite powder particles to the base ferrous powder particles by utilizing two different processes. The wettability of rubber, polyvinyl alcohol derivative and cellulose on copper and graphite sheets was measured. Furthermore, the effect of binders addition on alloying element binding ratio, flowability, apparent density, compressibility and sintered properties of the premix was investigated. The results suggest that the premix with the cellulose being the binder has premium processing and sintered properties, followed by polyvinyl alcohol derivative and rubber. This coincides with wettability of binders on copper and graphite sheet.