In this article, we focus not on a metal, but on a very special compound. After diamond, it is one of the hardest materials. It’s extremely wear-resistant, but also challenging to work with. We are talking about Tungsten Carbide, a combination of Tungsten, Carbon, and Cobalt. In this article, we discuss the properties and applications of this remarkable compound.

Broader Application of Special Metals

Tungsten Carbide is being used more frequently, aligning with a trend Metel has observed across the market for special, high-performance metals. Metel notes an increase in the use of exotic, high-performance metals, where the unique properties of these metals play an increasingly important role. In the past, there was a preference for cheaper materials to avoid high costs. Now, we are seeing a shift; higher costs for durable materials are becoming the norm. This is because machine downtime is much more expensive.

What is Tungsten Carbide?

Tungsten Carbide is one of the compounds being used in more and more applications. But what exactly is Tungsten Carbide? As mentioned, it is not a metal but a compound. A very strong compound due to the combination of Tungsten, Carbon, and Cobalt.Tungsten is prevalent in many high-tech industries because it not only boasts the highest melting and boiling point of all metals but also possesses a very high density. The combination of Tungsten and Carbon forms an incredibly strong bond. Cobalt is often added to this mix to meld both elements into a single compound.

Properties and Applications of Tungsten Carbide

Tungsten Carbide is extremely strong, exceptionally hard, highly wear-resistant, and has a very high density. These properties make Tungsten Carbide ideal for wear parts in situations with continuous friction. Consider components like conveyor belt parts, drill bits in oil drilling, or machines pulling cables across the seabed where sand and salt are ever-present. We find Tungsten Carbide components in the following markets:

  • Oil and Energy
  • Semiconductors
  • Electronics
  • Machinery
  • Tooling
  • Aerospace
  • Automotive

There are various grades of Tungsten Carbide, with differing ratios of Tungsten and Carbon. The specific properties and suitable applications depend on this composition. You can easily gain insight into the different grades with our datasheet, and we are also eager to discuss the options that best suit your application.

Opportunities and Challenges of Tungsten Carbide

Tungsten Carbide components are used in a wide range of applications. Thanks to its distinctive properties, Tungsten Carbide allows you to create components that are highly wear-resistant and durable.However, tungsten carbide also has its drawbacks. Generally, a harder material is also a more brittle one, and tungsten carbide is no exception. While it’s highly suitable for turning and grinding, any striking or hammering motion is out of the question as it will shatter. Additionally, tungsten carbide is difficult to work with precisely because of its strength. That’s why we collaborate with a certified factory that creates custom tungsten carbide parts based on technical drawings and provided tolerances.

“Depending on the complexity of the design, we can deliver custom tungsten carbide parts within four to six weeks, which is a relatively quick turnaround,” says Nick Kesteloo, manager at Metel.

Metel supplies special metals worldwide to companies operating in demanding markets such as semiconductors, the medical sector, and petrochemicals. Through call-off contracts, for instance, our clients—suppliers and OEMs—ensure the availability and consistent quality of the desired metals. Want to learn more about Metel’s services? Contact us at 0416-724 800 or email info@metel.nl.