Cemented Carbides

Definition

Cemented carbides are composite materials made from tungsten carbide particles that are bonded together by a metallic binder, typically cobalt. These materials are known for their high hardness, wear resistance, and toughness, making them ideal for various applications such as cutting tools and wear-resistant components. The ability to withstand high temperatures and pressures also allows cemented carbides to be used effectively in processes involving metal forming and shaping.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Cemented carbides are often used to manufacture cutting tools such as drills and end mills because of their ability to retain sharp edges under extreme conditions.
2. The production process of cemented carbides involves powder metallurgy, where tungsten carbide is mixed with a metallic binder and then pressed and sintered to form a solid material.
3. These materials can be engineered to have different properties by adjusting the ratio of tungsten carbide to the metallic binder, allowing customization for specific applications.
4. Cemented carbides exhibit a high level of wear resistance, making them suitable for industrial applications where durability and longevity are essential.
5. Due to their high hardness, cemented carbides can withstand significant mechanical stresses, making them valuable in processes like metal forming and extrusion.

Review Questions

• How do cemented carbides enhance the performance of cutting tools in metal forming processes?
  • Cemented carbides improve the performance of cutting tools in metal forming by providing exceptional hardness and wear resistance. This means that tools made from these materials can maintain their cutting edges longer than those made from softer metals, leading to increased efficiency and precision during machining. Additionally, their toughness helps them withstand the mechanical stresses encountered during metal forming operations, reducing the risk of tool failure.
• What role does the metallic binder play in determining the properties of cemented carbides used in extrusion and drawing?
  • The metallic binder in cemented carbides is crucial for enhancing their mechanical properties. It provides toughness to the composite material, which is essential during processes like extrusion and drawing where tools experience considerable impact and deformation. By varying the type and amount of binder used, manufacturers can tailor the toughness, hardness, and overall performance characteristics of the cemented carbide tools for specific applications.
• Evaluate how advancements in cemented carbide technology could influence future developments in metal forming techniques.
  • Advancements in cemented carbide technology could significantly influence future developments in metal forming techniques by leading to the creation of even more durable and efficient cutting tools. Innovations such as new binder materials or improved sintering methods could enhance wear resistance and toughness, resulting in tools that require less frequent replacement and maintenance. This could translate into reduced downtime and increased productivity in manufacturing processes. Additionally, enhanced performance characteristics could enable more complex geometries and tighter tolerances in metal forming operations, pushing the boundaries of what is achievable in manufacturing.

Related terms

Tungsten Carbide: A hard, dense material formed from tungsten and carbon, known for its exceptional hardness and resistance to wear.

Metallic Binder: A metal, often cobalt or nickel, that holds the particles of cemented carbides together, providing toughness and durability.

Wear Resistance: The ability of a material to resist degradation due to friction or contact with other surfaces, crucial for tools and components exposed to harsh conditions.