Arc erosion properties of WCu material reinforced with Ti${}_3$SiC${}_2$ under different applied voltages

Introducing reinforcements is a crucial way to modify WCu electric contacts. Herein, the arc erosion performances of WCu/Ti${}_3$SiC${}_2$ under various direct current voltages are investigated. The eroded microstructures are observed by a 3D laser scanning confocal microscopy and a thermal field emission scanning electron microscope. Compositions of the eroded surfaces are analyzed by a Raman spectroscopy. With the elevated voltages, values of breakdown current, arc duration, arc energy, and arc discharge distance increase, while the breakdown strength decreases. Meanwhile, the eroded regions gradually change from circular shape to irregularly curved corrugations under the elevated voltages. Copper and Ti${}_3$SiC${}_2$ can disperse arc during arc discharge, and the liquid and gas generated by the two phases can make differences in protecting WCu/Ti${}_3$SiC${}_2$. (© 2023 Wiley‐VCH GmbH)