A new metallurgical process combines graphite with metal to form low friction, self-lubricating materials. Iron, nickel, copper, silver, cobalt and alloys of these materials are combined in ratios varying from 90 to 10 percent graphite through the process developed by Ford Motor Company, Dearborn, Mich. Dixon Sintaloy, Inc., of Stamford, Conn., has the license to produce the new materials.
Applications foreseen for the new materials are self lubricating bearings, graphite metal brushes, electrical contacts, seals of all types, resistance elements and nuclear components.
Graphite compositions produced by the new process exhibit improved mechanical and electrical properties, according to Dixon. Also the brittle characteristic of graphite is greatly reduced in some compositions and eliminated in others.
Initial evaluation indicates transverse rupture strength to 50,000 psi and compressive strength to 120,000 psi. The materials exhibit pressure value to 200,-000 while that of standard self lubricating bronze is about 25,000. Some compositions of...
