Structure and properties of Fe-Co-Ni-B-Si-Nb alloy prepared by mechanical alloying method

Purpose: The goal of this work is to investigate structure and properties of Fe57.6Co7.2Ni7.2B19.2Si4.8Nb4 powders alloys obtained by mechanical alloying. Design/methodology/approach: The test material was the mixture of Fe, Co, Ni, B, Si and Nb powders obtained by the mixing in suitable weight relation. The powders were ground for the 10 and 100 hrs in a high energy planetary ball mill. The microscopic observation of the shape and size of the powdered material particles was carried out by the scanning electron microscope with the magnification 500 times. The changes of the powder structure were tested by means of the X-ray diffractometer. Powder samples by energy dispersion spectroscopy were analyzed too. The measurements of particles size by means of the laser analyser were carried out. Findings: The present paper is the attempt at proposing the mechanical alloying method to obtain multicomponent, Fe-based nanocrystalline alloys. Research limitations/implications: The experiments in this article are made on a laboratory scale. Practical implications: The examined alloys belong to a modern group of soft magnetic materials, which can be used as transformers, sensors, power and electronics devices, etc. Originality/value: In addition a good structural homogeneity and first of all mechanical properties was achieved, also practical application will be possible.