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Metallurgical and mechanical characteristics of cryogenically treated tungsten carbide (WC–Co)

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Abstract

This paper aims to present the metallurgical and mechanical characterization of cryogenically treated tungsten carbide (WC–Co) in terms of α-, β-, γ-, and η-phase particles and wear behavior, respectively. The specimens of commercially available uncoated WC–Co in the form of round turning inserts were procured and subjected to cryogenic treatment at two levels −110°C (shallow treatment) and −196°C (deep treatment) of temperature. The microstructures obtained after cryogenic treatments have been characterized with a prominence to comprehend the influence of cryogenic treatment on the nature, size, and distribution of α-, β-, γ-, and η-phase particles as compared to untreated specimen. The mechanical properties such as hardness and wear rate of the specimens have also been compared by performing Rockwell A hardness test and pin-on-disk wear test, respectively. Microstructures, hardness, wear rate, and analysis of worn surface divulge the underlying metallurgical mechanism responsible in improving mechanical properties of the WC–Co.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Mechanical Engineering, Beant College of Engineering and Technology, Gurdaspur, 143521, Punjab, India

    Simranpreet Singh Gill & Jagdev Singh

  2. School of Mechanical, Materials and Energy Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Ropar, 140001, Punjab, India

    Harpreet Singh

  3. Department of Production Engineering, Guru Nanak Dev Engineering College, Ludhiana, 141006, Punjab, India

    Rupinder Singh

Authors
  1. Simranpreet Singh Gill
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  2. Jagdev Singh
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  3. Harpreet Singh
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  4. Rupinder Singh
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Correspondence to Simranpreet Singh Gill.

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Gill, S.S., Singh, J., Singh, H. et al. Metallurgical and mechanical characteristics of cryogenically treated tungsten carbide (WC–Co). Int J Adv Manuf Technol 58, 119–131 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00170-011-3369-4

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00170-011-3369-4

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