Copper / stainless steel welds are examined to determine the extent of diffusion of the stainless steel into the copper. This is undesirable because it significantly reduces the electrical conductivity of the copper. The key to polishing copper / stainless weld is to minimize smearing during cutting and initial grinding and to maintain the integrity of the inclusions in both the copper and stainless steel.
SECTIONING
MAXCUT Abrasive blade (Cat. No. MAX-E series)
MOUNTING
Compression Mounting with Phenolic, Epoxy or Diallyl Phthalate compression mounting resins
POLISHING
Abrasive/surface |
Lubricant |
Force/ sample |
Time |
320 grit SiC paper |
Water |
5 lbs |
Until plane |
1 um DIAMAT diamond on DACRON pad |
DIALUBE Purple Extender |
5 psi |
2 minutes |
0.05 um Nanometer alumina on NAPPAD pad |
|
5 psi |
30 seconds |
 |
Diffusion of Stainless Steel (gray) into copper, 200X B.F., (as polished) |
 |
Crack formed in Stainless Steel by welding operation, 200X B.F. (as polished) |