kovametalleilla

Kovametalleilla, often referred to as cemented carbides or hardmetals, are composite materials produced through powder metallurgy. They are primarily composed of hard carbide particles dispersed in a metallic binder phase. The most common hard phase is tungsten carbide (WC), although other carbides like titanium carbide (TiC) and tantalum carbide (TaC) can also be used. The binder phase is typically cobalt (Co), but nickel (Ni) or iron (Fe) are sometimes employed, especially for specific applications.

The production of kovametalleilla involves several steps. First, the constituent powders (carbide and binder) are mixed, often with a lubricant. This mixture is then pressed into the desired shape, which is initially weak and porous. The pressed part is then sintered in a vacuum or controlled atmosphere furnace. During sintering, the binder metal melts and infiltrates the spaces between the carbide particles, causing the material to densify. The cobalt binder dissolves some of the tungsten carbide, and upon cooling, a specific metallurgical structure forms, resulting in the exceptionally hard and tough final product.

Kovametalleilla are known for their outstanding hardness, wear resistance, and strength at elevated temperatures. These properties make them ideal for a wide range of cutting tools, mining tools, wear parts, and structural components that experience high stress and abrasion. The specific properties can be tailored by adjusting the grain size of the carbide particles and the composition of the binder phase. For example, finer grain sizes generally lead to increased hardness and wear resistance, while a higher binder content improves toughness.