Abstract: With Cu and Ni powder used as matrix materials and W, SiC, Y2O3 and MoS2 as additives, the new copper-based self-lubricating composites were prepared by means of powder metallurgy where the graphite content was variable and included 3%, 3.5%, 4%, 4.5% and 5%. The structure and mechanical properties of the samples were investigated by metalloscopy, SEM, XRD, confocal imager, hardometer and tribometry. The results indicated that the best sintering temperature and time of the self-lubricating composites are 910°C and 4 h, respectively. The structure of prepared samples typically consists of the copper's α-solid solution, Cu0.8Ni0.19, WMoS2, SiC and graphite, and their mechanical properties lower with increasing graphite content. However, the self-lubricating performance is improved by increasing graphite. A conclusion is therefore drawn that increasing the content of solid lubrication phase in the composite is the key factor for self-lubricating behavior, though keeping up the high mechanical properties provided by matrix materials is necessary.