Cemented carbides from WC powders obtained by the SHS method

Microstructure and properties of WC–Co cemented carbides from WC powders obtained by the self-propagating high-temperature synthesis (SHS) were examined. The microstructure and properties of a submicron carbide grade with 5% Co made from the near-nano SHS WC powder and a standard submicron grade are similar. Microstructure of a medium-coarse WC–6%Co grade made from the medium-coarse SHS WC powder and its properties are comparable with those of the standard medium-coarse carbide grade for percussive drilling. Results of laboratory performance tests on percussive drilling of the medium-coarse WC–6%Co grade obtained from both the SHS powder and conventional WC powder indicate that their wear-resistance and performance toughness are very similar. •Submicron WC–5%Co carbide was made from the SHS near-nano WC powder.•Properties of the SHS WC–5%Co are comparable with those of conventional carbide.•Medium-coarse WC–6%Co carbide was obtained from the SHS coarse WC powder.•Properties of the SHS WC–6%Co are comparable with those of conventional carbide.