Hardmetal

Hardmetal, also known as cemented carbide or sintered carbide, is a composite material made by pressing and then sintering a mixture of fine hard carbide particles and a binder metal. The most common carbide used is tungsten carbide (WC), with cobalt (Co) being the most frequent binder metal. Other carbides like titanium carbide (TiC), tantalum carbide (TaC), and vanadium carbide (VC) can also be used to modify properties.

The manufacturing process involves milling the carbide powders and binder metal into a fine powder, pressing this mixture into a desired shape, and then sintering it at a high temperature in a vacuum or inert atmosphere. During sintering, the binder metal melts and infiltrates the carbide particles, creating a strong, dense material upon cooling. This process, known as powder metallurgy, allows for the creation of complex shapes.

Hardmetals are renowned for their exceptional hardness, wear resistance, and high compressive strength. These properties make them ideal for applications where extreme durability is required. They are significantly harder than most steels but possess lower tensile strength and toughness.

The primary uses of hardmetal are in cutting tools, such as drill bits, milling cutters, and inserts for machining operations. They are also used in wear parts like dies, nozzles, bearings, and punches, as well as in mining and construction equipment for drilling and excavation. The specific composition of the hardmetal, particularly the ratio of carbide to binder and the types of carbides used, determines its suitability for different applications.