Improvement in Machinability of Sintered Steel due to Graphite Particles Retained in Pore Sites

Abstract

The effect of graphite retained in the pore sites of sintered steels on machinability was investigated. Sintered steels containing retained graphite were obtained by sintering green compacts made from sulfur-containing iron powder with copper and graphite. Retained graphite in the pore sites of sintered steels in amounts of 0.1 to 0.3wt% resulted in 10 times longer drilling tool life and no significant impact on tensile strength.