Arc erosion characteristics of Al₂O₃La₂O₃Y₂O₃/Cu composite

Al₂O(La₂O₃Y₂O₃/Cu composites are prepared by spray deposition and internal oxidation. The arc erosion phenomena of this composite contact in direct current state of 20 Y/20 A are studied, and comparative analysis with Al₂O(/Cu composites are carried out. The changes of the contact material weighing and surface microstructure of the contact after arc erosion are investigated by electronic balance and SEM. It can be concluded that adding Y₂O₃, La₂O₃ rare earth oxide particles can effectively reduce the amount of material transfer of the contact. The welding resistance and anti-burning of Al₂O(La₂O₃Y₂O₃/Cu composite are superior to that of Al₂O(/Cu composite. Under direct current resistance load condition, the anode contact surface forms pits while the cathode contact surface forms projection, and there are two arc erosion morphological characters, i.e. starchiness coagulum and eruption pits on the contact surface of Al₂O(La₂O₃Y₂O₃/Cu composite.