THE INFLUENCE OF COMPOSITION AND STRUCTURE OF BINDER PHASE ON HARD ALLOYS SERVICE PROPERTIES

Abstract

A review of the works related to the influence of the composition, structure and technology of the binder on the properties of hard alloys is given. The data on influence of binder on the properties of hard alloys from Russian and international studies is summarized.  An overview on the research of applicability of various elements of periodic system as the binders and their influence on the properties of hard alloys is given. To enhance the mechanical properties and reduce the cost of hard alloys, the available and novel suggestions regarding the substitution of the main binder (cobalt) by iron, nickel, rhenium, molybdenum, chrome, etc. were assessed. To attain the best possible performance, an optimal combination of grains size and binder content is required. The areas of application for particular hard alloys are outlined, along with the methods for enhancing the mechanical properties of binder by introduction of various strengthening additives. The influence of grain growth inhibitors on the median grains size and properties of hard alloys are demonstrated. The ways for further development of submicron, ultrafine, nano-phase alloys with nanostructured binders strengthened by nanoadditives are outlined.