Metallographic Characterization of Heterogeneous Structures in Sliding Materials Made of Bronze and Special Brass

Microstructures of copper materials for slide bearings are often complex and may exhibit a carrier crystal structure characterized by a coexistence of hard and soft structural constituents. Relief polishing is an interesting option for the sample preparation of such materials, as it allows for statements regarding the resistance of the microstructure to abrasive wear. Differential interference contrast microscopy as well as confocal microscopy are particularly suited in order to study the relief polished sections. In addition to that, simple metallographic procedures may be applied to assess the mechanical properties of the structural constituents. Different examination methods combined give an idea of how carrier crystal structures behave in slide bearing applications.