Effect of (Cr, V)₂(C, N) on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of WC-10Co Cemented Carbides

Abstract

WC-10Co cemented carbides with finer WC and narrower grain size distributions are produced by using (Cr, V)₂(C, N) as grain growth inhibitors. As a result, with the increase of (Cr_0.9, V_0.1)₂(C, N) and (V_0.9, Cr_0.1)₂(C, N), the grains size of WC and mean free path of Co phase decrease, and adjacency of WC increases. Refinement and homogenization of grains enhance the transverse rupture strength (TRS) and the hardness. Meanwhile, the deflection and bridging of cracks keep the fracture toughness at a respectable level. The WC-10Co-0.6(Cr_0.9, V_0.1)₂(C, N)-0.025(V_0.9, Cr_0.1)₂(C, N) cemented carbides exhibit excellent comprehensive mechanical properties with the TRS of 4 602.6 MPa, hardness of 1 835 kg/mm², and fracture toughness of 10.39 MPa·m^1/2, respectively. However, the large pores are caused by excess N larger than 0.03 wt% and deteriorates the mechanical properties. We provide a new approach to WC-Co cemented carbides preparation with a narrow grain size distribution by adding novel grain growth inhibitors.

Keywords

(Cr, V)₂(C, N) / nutrient content / WC grains size / microstructure / mechanical properties

References

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