Ultrafine/nano WC-Co cemented carbide: Overview of preparation and key technologies

Abstract

Ultrafine/nano WC–Co cemented carbide is widely used because of its high hardness, strength, toughness, and other comprehensive properties. However, WC grain growth during preparation is a persistent issue that hinders the development of this type of cemented carbide. In this context, we review current research on the preparation of ultrafine/nano WC–Co composite powder and sintering methods of ultrafine/nano cemented carbide. The correlation between grain growth and densification during sintering is analyzed. The key technologies inhibiting WC grain growth are explored and discussed, and the synergism between transition metal carbides and rare-earth element mixtures is found to effectively inhibit the growth of WC grains and improve the general performance of ultrafine/nano WC–Co cemented carbide. Finally, future research directions and development trends of ultrafine/nano WC–Co cemented carbides are presented.

Keywords

• WC–Co cemented carbides
• Ultrafine/nano crystal
• Sintering method
• Densification
• Grain growth
• Grain growth inhibition