Properties and Selection of Cemented Carbides

Cemented carbide is, in its simplest form, a metal-matrix composite of tungsten carbide particles in a cobalt matrix. This article describes the microstructure, physical, and mechanical properties of cemented carbides. The properties discussed include thermal conductivity, magnetic properties, corrosion resistance, hardness, fracture toughness, wear resistance, and thermal shock resistance. The article concludes with information on the applications, grade classification, and selection of grades.