How to choose tungsten carbide powder for your application

Tungsten carbide powder is the base material for cemented carbide tools, wear parts and hard coatings. Choosing the right powder comes down to a few parameters.

Grain size

Finer grains generally give higher hardness and better edge strength, which suits cutting tools. Coarser grains offer more toughness and suit mining and heavy wear applications.

Carbon balance

Total and free carbon must be controlled tightly. Incorrect carbon levels can introduce brittle phases in the sintered part.

Purity and oxygen

Low impurity and oxygen levels support consistent sintering. Ask for a Certificate of Analysis showing these values for the lot you receive.

Application route

Cemented carbide production, hardfacing and thermal spray each favour different powder characteristics. Describe your process and the supplier can suggest a suitable grade.

See our tungsten carbide powder page or contact us for a quotation.