Tungsten carbide is made by combining equal parts of tungsten with carbon material. It is twice as dense as steel and is used in a wide range of manufacturing products due to its sturdiness. It is usually found in powder form, which is then converted into different shapes through a sintering process.
It is resistant to heat and pressure. The tungsten mono carbide grains are mixed with the binder matrix to produce the final material. This combination also creates a pore-free structure by densifying the material. Its properties vary and mainly depend on the grain size used in its composition.
In today’s article, we will explain where this unique material is widely used. Let’s get started.
Mill Products
Due to its near-diamond hardness, tungsten carbide metal is used in many milling products. It is primarily used either for cutting tools or to make mill components wear-resistant.
It is first molded into indexable inserts or solid end mills. Because it is significantly tougher and retains a sharp edge, the tools increase machining speeds (and also produce a superior finish).
Similarly, it is used to create extraordinarily precise rolling mill rolls and composite roll rings for rod and tube mills. Since the material resists deformation and all forms of abrasion, the rollers ensure a flawless surface finish every time.
Applications in Construction
It is also used to cut or drill into high-density materials such as asphalt, concrete, or rebar. Its durability ensures that the tools are not replaced more often.
For drilling masonry and concrete bits, tungsten carbide is the industry standard. It allows for clean penetration when drilling through hard elements. Similarly, circular saw blades tipped with tungsten carbide are designed to cut through hard materials such as cast iron, ceramics, and even concrete.
Heavy-duty equipment, such as excavator bucket teeth and roll milling teeth, is also frequently reinforced with tungsten carbide to withstand high impact.
Uses in Jewelry
Men’s wedding bands and fashion rings also contain tungsten carbide. The carbon and tungsten powders are sintered at high temperatures to create a hard material that rivals the brilliance of gold and platinum. Due to its high density, it gives a heavy feel. This then reflects on the finger that many jewelry wearers actually want.
The material is safe and non-irritating for sensitive skin, another trait that makes it a perfect choice for jewelry. The material is also carved with diamond-studded tools, allowing jewelers to create precious materials such as wood or carbon fiber.
Uses in Electronics
Tungsten carbide is an excellent electrical conductor, making it a suitable choice for a range of electrical components. High-precision micro drills and router bits are used to drill tiny, complex holes (and they’re made of tungsten carbide). Similarly, tungsten carbide dies are also used to form device casings and capacitor housings. And because of its excellent conductivity, it is widely used to create specialized switched and heavy-duty electrical contacts.
Bottom Lines
Tungsten carbide plays an important role in our lives, and its wide-ranging applications, as we have discussed above, prove that. It’s something that has stood the test of time and will continue to do so.
