Why is Tungsten Carbide the Ideal Tool Material?

Tungsten carbide (WC) is a compound composed of refractory metal tungsten and non-metallic carbon. It has the characteristics of high density, high melting point, high strength, high hardness, high temperature resistance, corrosion resistance, wear resistance and good electrical and thermal conductivity. , so it is an ideal carbide tool material.

However, due to the problems of high brittleness and poor toughness of pure WC powder, it is often necessary to add an appropriate amount of binders such as cobalt (Co), nickel (Ni), and chromium (Cr) when making cemented carbide tools with high comprehensive performance. , molybdenum (Mo), titanium (Ti), copper (Cu) and other elements.

Specifically, cemented carbide with WC powder as the hard phase and Co as the binder phase is more suitable for cutting tools. Due to its good thermal conductivity, it is conducive to the dissipation of cutting heat from the tool tip, reducing the temperature of the tool tip and avoiding the overheating and softening of the tool tip; due to its high bending strength and impact toughness, it can effectively reduce the cutting time. Probability of chipping; sharp edges can be ground due to excellent machinability (much more than high speed steel).

Cemented carbide with WC powder as the hard phase and Ni as the binder phase is more suitable for corrosion-resistant parts. Its corrosion resistance is stronger than that of tungsten-cobalt carbide tools, so it is suitable for use in environments with various corrosive media. In addition, WC-Ni cemented carbide seals are also suitable for use in low temperature, high temperature, vacuum and high pressure places.

The cemented carbide composed of WC, TiC and Co has the characteristics of high hardness, good heat resistance, high compressive strength, good oxidation resistance and poor thermal conductivity, and is suitable for processing steel.

It should be noted that the specific physical indicators of cemented carbide will change with the ratio of raw materials. If one or more layers of carbide, carbide and other refractory hard compounds are sprayed on the surface of cemented carbide, the high wear resistance and high toughness of the alloy will be further compatible, so it is more suitable for high-speed cutting.