Binder mean-free-path determination in cemented carbide by coercive force and material composition

Abstract

In the present investigation, cemented carbide with different cobalt contents varying from 9 to 37 vol. % were prepared by conventional methods, and their mechanical and magnetic properties measured. Using optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy analysis, the average WC grain size and binder mean free path were determined. These values were found to relate to the coercive force and cobalt volume percentage. KIc measurements using the "short-rod" test method, as a function of the binder mean free path calculated from the equation, were found to agree very well with KIc values for cemented carbide published by other investigators in the field. © 1988.