Investigation of microstructure and magnetic properties of melt spun Fe–P–C–Si–Cu ribbons

Abstract

Soft magnetic alloy Fe_81-xP₉C₇Si₃Cu_x (x = 0, 0·5, 0·7, 1, 1·3) ribbons were produced by the single roller melt spinning method. The Cu content dependence of microstructure and magnetic properties was investigated. Appropriate addition of Cu is effective to the improvement of glass forming ability (GFA) and soft magnetic properties in this alloy system. The thermal stability, crystallisation process and soft magnetic properties of Fe₈₀P₉C₇Si₃Cu₁ were also investigated. Excellent soft magnetic properties with low coercivity H_c (5·9 A m⁻¹) and high magnetic flux density B₈₀₀₀ (1·68 T) can be obtained annealing this alloy at 653 K for 2 min. Low cost of raw materials and good soft magnetic properties make this alloy a promising candidate for future application.