What Is The Difference Between Hard And Tough Carbide?

What is the difference between hard and tough carbide?

Carbide is a compound consisting of a metallic element and carbon. It is commonly used as a material for cutting tools and machine parts due to its high hardness and durability. However, there are two types of carbide: hard and tough. Many people confuse these two types of carbide and mistake them as interchangeable terms. But they are not. Hard and tough carbide differ in terms of their properties, applications, and strengths.

**Properties

Hard carbide is known for its high hardness and resistance to wear. It is often referred to as cemented carbide, tungsten carbide, or simply carbide. Hard carbides consist of tungsten carbide particles embedded in a metallic matrix, usually cobalt. This composite material forms a very hard and brittle material. Hard carbide has a microhardness of over 2000HV and a compressive strength of over 4000MPa. It is extremely wear-resistant and can withstand high temperatures and pressure.

Tough carbide, on the other hand, is known for its ability to absorb shock, withstand impact, and resist fatigue. It is also called cemented carbide, hard metal, or carbide alloy. Tough carbides consist of carbide particles embedded in a metallic matrix, usually cobalt or nickel. This composite material forms a tough and ductile material. Tough carbide has lower hardness compared to hard carbide, around 1300-1800HV, but higher toughness. It can absorb vibrations and impacts without cracking or breaking.

**Applications

Hard carbide is used primarily for cutting and drilling applications. Its high hardness and wear resistance make it ideal for machining tough materials such as steel, cast iron, and titanium. Hard carbide is often used in cutting tools such as drills, end mills, and inserts. It can also be used for wear-resistant parts such as nozzles, dies, and molds.

Tough carbide, on the other hand, is used primarily for wear-resistant and impact-resistant applications. Its high toughness and shock absorption make it ideal for tooling and material handling applications. Tough carbide is often used in mining, construction, and oil and gas industries. It can be used for excavator teeth, rock drills, and conveyor screws. Tough carbide is also used for wear-resistant parts such as valve seats, bearings, and pump seals.

**Strengths

Hard carbide’s strength lies in its high hardness and wear resistance. It can maintain its cutting edge for a long time, even when exposed to abrasive materials. Hard carbide tools can machine tough materials at high speeds and feeds without chipping or fracturing. Hard carbide is also resistant to thermal and chemical wear, making it suitable for high-temperature and corrosive environments.

Tough carbide’s strength lies in its ability to absorb shock and resist impact. It can withstand heavy loads and repetitive impacts without cracking or breaking. Tough carbide tools can operate in tough conditions, such as underground mining and oil and gas drilling. Tough carbide is also resistant to wear and erosion, making it suitable for abrasive environments.

In conclusion, hard and tough carbide are two different types of carbides that differ in terms of their properties, applications, and strengths. Hard carbide is known for its high hardness and wear resistance, ideal for cutting and drilling applications, while tough carbide is known for its ability to absorb shock and resist impact, ideal for wear-resistant and impact-resistant applications. Understanding the difference between hard and tough carbide can help you choose the right material for your specific application.