Karbidipiikkiä

Karbidipiikkiä, often translated as carbide spike or carbide stud, refers to small, hard protrusions made of cemented carbide. These are typically attached to the soles of footwear, such as boots or shoes, to enhance traction on slippery surfaces. The carbide material provides exceptional wear resistance and a high coefficient of friction, making it effective on ice, snow, and hard ground.

The primary function of karbidipiikkiä is to prevent slips and falls, particularly in outdoor environments during winter conditions. They work by digging into the surface, providing grip where traditional rubber soles might fail. The design of these spikes can vary, with some being screw-in replacements for existing studs and others being integrated into specialized footwear. The manufacturing process involves sintering powdered tungsten carbide with a binder, usually cobalt, to create a very hard and durable composite material.

Karbidipiikkiä are commonly found on winter hiking boots, work boots for professions requiring outdoor work in challenging weather, and even on some athletic footwear designed for winter sports. While offering significant safety benefits, they can also cause damage to certain delicate surfaces like polished floors or hardwood. Therefore, their use is generally recommended for outdoor or industrial settings where traction is paramount.