metallicceramic

A metallic ceramic, also known as a cermet, is a composite material composed of a ceramic and a metal. This combination aims to leverage the beneficial properties of both constituent materials. Typically, cermets consist of a hard, brittle ceramic phase dispersed within a continuous metallic phase. The ceramic phase provides high hardness, wear resistance, and high-temperature strength, while the metallic phase contributes toughness, ductility, and improved thermal and electrical conductivity.

The manufacturing of cermets often involves powder metallurgy techniques, where the ceramic and metal powders are mixed, pressed into a desired shape, and then sintered at high temperatures. During sintering, the metal melts, acting as a binder for the ceramic particles, forming a dense, strong composite. The specific properties of a cermet can be tailored by adjusting the type and proportion of the ceramic and metal components, as well as the particle size and microstructure.

Cermets find applications in various industries due to their unique property profile. They are commonly used in cutting tools, such as inserts for machining, where their high hardness and wear resistance allow for efficient material removal at high speeds. Other applications include wear-resistant components in pumps and valves, high-temperature structural parts, electrical contacts, and even in some aerospace and nuclear engineering applications. Examples of common cermets include titanium carbide (TiC) bonded with nickel or cobalt, and alumina (Al2O3) with a metallic binder.