Review of Synthesis Methods, Microstructure and Properties of WC – Co-Based Hard Alloys

Abstract

Advanced recent and traditional processes for synthesizing hard alloys based on WC – Co are reviewed. The mechanisms of grain compaction during sintering and the efficiencies of the grain growth inhibitors for repeated precipitation of WC grains are considered. The methods of pressure sintering and rapid sintering are studied. Advantages and disadvantages of different methods are described.