Abstract

As Tungsten carbide has a number of desired mechanical properties, including temperature resistance, high strength and toughness, which are suitable for industrial cutting tools therefore it is receiving great interest in cutting industry. One of the effective methods for the synthesis of cemented carbide is powder metallurgy. Sintering, a critical part of P/M is occurred by pressing the powder into die and then heat is provided for a period of time until the sintering temperature reaches. Numerous conventional sintering methods were used to prepare tungsten carbide such as vacuum sintering and microwave sintering. The conventional methods are time consuming and require high temperature and high pressure. Some of these issues are resolved by current sintering methods such as spark plasma sintering by reducing the overall time of process and use of commercial grain growth inhibitors. Still, there are challenges that need more research in terms of sintering method that can produce binderless WC. In this study, along with the overview of several conventional and modern sintering processes, upgraded field assisted sintering technology (U-FAST) has been discussed from the perspective of manufacturing carbides. Technical details and microstructural features of U-FAST sintered WC are discussed.

Keywords: Sintering; U-FAST; Tungsten carbide; Microstructure; Conventional sintering

Abbreviations: U-FAST: Upgraded Field Assisted Sintering Technology; SEM: Scanning Electron Microscope; SPS: Spark Plasma Sintering; PPS: Pulse Plasma Sintering; ANFF: Australian National Fabrication Facility