Pengaruh Variasi Beban pada Proses Mini Hot Forging terhadap Karakteristik pada Paduan (90Nu-10Ni)-5 .wt. % W Berbasis Serbuk

Abstract

Electrode Discharge Machining (EDM) is a non-conventional machining method that requires electrodes with good mechanical properties and electrical conductivity. Copper-nickel-tungsten alloy ((90Cu-10Ni)-5 wt.% W) is one of the promising EDM electrode candidates due to its combination of mechanical properties, wear resistance, and electrical conductivity. However, the powder metallurgy process used to fabricate these electrodes often produces materials with high porosity which can degrade their performance. Therefore, this study aims to analyze the effect of load variation in the hot forging process on the mechanical and physical characteristics of (90Cu-10Ni)-5 wt.% W alloy produced by powder metallurgy method. The research process started with powder mixing using horizontal ball milling method at 300 rpm for 120 minutes. The powder was then compressed with a pressure of 250 MPa at 150°C for 15 minutes, sintered at 770°C for 2 hours, and continued with the hot forging process using varying loads of 343 N, 372 N, 402 N, and 431 N. The results showed that increasing the forging load had a significant impact on the mechanical and physical properties of the material. The density of the specimen increased as the forging load increased, reaching the highest value at 431 N. The results showed that increasing the forging load had a significant impact on the mechanical and physical properties of the material. The density of the specimen increased as the forging load increased, reaching the highest value at a load of 431 N. The highest hardness value was obtained at a load of 431 N with 142 VHN, while the maximum compressive strength reached 243.251 MPa. Electrical conductivity testing showed an increase with increasing density and decreasing porosity, so that the electrodes produced have better performance in conducting electricity. In addition, wear resistance testing shows that specimens with higher forging load have better wear resistance, which contributes to the durability of the electrode during the EDM process. From the results of this study, it can be concluded that the hot forging process has a positive effect in improving the mechanical properties and electrical conductivity of the (90Cu-10Ni)-5 wt.% W alloy produced through powder metallurgy. Higher forging load variations are able to reduce porosity, increase hardness, compressive strength, and wear resistance, making this material more optimal for application as an EDM electrode.