Difference between carbide vs tungsten carbide

When discussing carbides in the context of materials science, especially in the tool and mold industry, it is important to distinguish between generic carbides and the specific subset known as tungsten carbide. This distinction is crucial because of the unique properties and applications of tungsten carbide compared to other types of carbides.

Tungsten Carbide

Tungsten carbide (WC) is a specific type of carbide that has gained widespread use due to its exceptional properties. Here are the salient features that set it apart:

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• High Hardness: Tungsten carbide is extremely hard, ranking about 8.5 to 9 on the Mohs scale, which is close to diamond’s hardness. It retains this hardness even at temperatures as high as 500°C.
• Wear Resistance: Its superior wear resistance makes it ideal for use in cutting tools, where longevity and precision are critical.
• Strength and Toughness: Despite its hardness, tungsten carbide also exhibits good toughness, which is essential for resisting breakage under mechanical stress.
• Heat Resistance: It maintains a high level of hardness even at elevated temperatures, making it suitable for high-speed cutting applications.
• Corrosion Resistance: Tungsten carbide also stands out for its resistance to corrosion, which makes it suitable for use in hostile environments.

Common Types of Tungsten Carbide

• Tungsten Cobalt Carbides (WC-Co): These are made primarily from tungsten carbide (WC) and cobalt. They are widely used due to their excellent mechanical properties and resistance to thermal shock.
• Tungsten Titanium Cobalt Carbides (WC-TiC-Co): This variant includes titanium carbide (TiC) in addition to WC and cobalt, enhancing hardness and wear resistance further.
• Tungsten Titanium Tantalum (Niobium) Carbides (WC-TiC-TaC/NbC-Co): These carbides include tantalum or niobium carbides, providing increased temperature capabilities and hardness.

General Carbides

Carbides, in general, are compounds consisting of carbon and a less electronegative element. They are classified based on their chemical bonding characteristics into several types:

• Salt-like (Ionic) Carbides: Such as calcium carbide (CaC2), which reacts with water to produce acetylene gas, used in welding and metal cutting.
• Covalent Carbides: Notable examples include silicon carbide (SiC) and boron carbide (B4C), which are extremely hard materials used in abrasives and armor.
• Interstitial Carbides: These include carbides like titanium carbide (TiC) and iron carbide (Fe3C), where carbon atoms fit into interstitial spaces in a metal’s lattice. They are integral to the hardness of steel and other alloys.
• Metal-rich Carbides: These have metal-to-metal bonds with carbon atoms inserted in between, such as tantalum hafnium carbide (Ta4HfC5), known for its extraordinary heat resistance.

Conclusion

The term “carbide” in industrial contexts often specifically denotes tungsten carbide due to its widespread application and superior properties. However, other types of carbides also play critical roles in various applications across different industries. Understanding the distinctions between these carbides, particularly their composition and performance characteristics, is essential for selecting the right material for specific applications. Whether for cutting tools, armor plating, or abrasives, the choice of carbide can significantly influence the performance and durability of the products in which they are used.