Tungsten carbide, also known as tungsten alloy, is a hard alloy mainly made up of tungsten (W) and carbon. Its hardness is second only to diamond and much harder than steel, making it a superhard material. Tungsten carbide typically contains 80% to 95% tungsten, with the remainder made up of carbon and other metals. Through advanced smelting and heat treatment processes, tungsten carbide achieves extremely high density and hardness, making it suitable for various applications requiring high hardness and wear resistance.
Main Applications of Tungsten Carbide
Cutting Tools: The hardness and wear resistance of tungsten carbide make it an ideal material for manufacturing cutting tools. Tungsten carbide is commonly used in tools such as turning tools, milling cutters, drill bits, and taps used in metalworking. These tools perform exceptionally well in cutting materials that are hard and have poor wear resistance, thus improving production efficiency and processing quality.
Mining: Tungsten carbide is also widely used in the mining industry, especially in the manufacture of drilling tools. Mining drill bits, blasting tools, and excavators often use tungsten carbide. Due to its high wear resistance and compressive strength, tungsten carbide performs excellently under extreme conditions.
Industrial Machinery: Tungsten carbide is used in the manufacture of various mechanical components, including molds, bearings, and slides. Its high strength and wear resistance effectively extend the lifespan of mechanical equipment and improve production efficiency.
Jewelry and Watches: Tungsten carbide is also used in the production of jewelry and watches. Due to its resistance to wear and scratches, tungsten carbide jewelry has become popular among consumers and has become a fashion highlight.
Aerospace: Due to its high density and hardness, tungsten carbide is widely used in the aerospace industry. It is used in the structural components and engine parts of aircraft, where it provides excellent performance under demanding conditions.
Advantages of Tungsten Carbide
Exceptional Hardness: Tungsten carbide is extremely hard, second only to diamond. Its hardness is three to five times that of ordinary steel, allowing it to maintain high precision during machining and reduce wear.
Wear Resistance: Tungsten carbide's wear resistance is outstanding. Tools made from tungsten carbide can be used for longer periods when cutting metals, ores, and other hard materials, significantly extending tool life and reducing replacement costs.
Corrosion Resistance: Tungsten carbide has excellent corrosion resistance, making it suitable for use in humid, high-temperature, or chemically corrosive environments without degradation. This property makes it widely used in industries such as petroleum, chemical, and metallurgy.
High Temperature Resistance: Tungsten carbide has a very high melting point and can withstand extremely high temperatures without deforming or breaking. It remains stable under high-temperature conditions, making it ideal for use in high-temperature environments.
High Density: Tungsten carbide has a relatively high density, which gives it an advantage in applications requiring heavy components. For example, in the production of high-precision instruments and heavy parts for aerospace, tungsten carbide provides the necessary density.