Microstructure Evolution and Property of Spray-Formed Cu-10 wt% Fe Alloy During Cold Rolling

In order to obtain homogeneity and fine-scale microstructure of Cu–Fe alloy, a Cu-10 wt% Fe alloy slab was prepared by spray forming. The effects of cold rolling reduction on the alloy microstructure, mechanical properties, and electrical conductivity were studied. The results indicate that the Fe phase was fine and uniform with an average particle size of 4.16 μm, and the morphology of the particles was short rod or nearly spherical. The Cu matrix and Fe particles were gradually elongated, refined and finally formed into a distinct fiber structure along the rolling direction as the cold rolling reduction increased from 35 to 95%. The degree of deformation of the Cu matrix was more significant than that of the Fe phases at the same reduction, and more refined grains of the Cu matrix around the Fe phases. After cold rolling at 95% reduction, the Cu-10 wt% Fe exhibited an increase in tensile strength from 337 MPa in the initial state to 595 MPa, while the electrical conductivity decreased from 42.3% IACS to 20.2% IACS. The alloy deformation behavior and the strengthening mechanisms were illustrated. The combination of spray forming and cold rolling provides a novel approach to producing efficient, shortened process, environmentally friendly Cu–Fe alloy thin strips.