Tungsten and the Mining Industry

Abstract

Tungsten was isolated from its ores in 1783 and since then it became important because it had the highest melting point of metals - 3410°C. Cemented carbides are materials made by cementing tungsten carbide grains in a binder matrix of cobalt or nickel alloy by liquid phase sintering. The developments in carbide tools resulted in a revolution in the machine tool industry in the late 19th century. Tungsten steels are among the most heat resistant steels, high speed steels, and super alloys.