Densification of WC-Fe-Ni-Co-Cr cemented carbides processed by HIP after sintering: effect of WC powder particle size

Shrinkage, liquid formation and mass losses of WC-19 vol% FeNiCoCr alloys during sintering have been inves- tigated in compositions either with coarse or submicron WC powders. Mass losses detected by thermogravimetry are compatible with carbothermal reduction of the different oxides present in the powder mixtures. Hardness and fracture toughness of materials based on submicron WC powders are within tolerances of those reported for WC- Co materials with similar microstructures. However, fracture strength is approx. 25% lower.