Microstructure and properties of TiC/NiCr cermets produced by partial liquid-phase sintering

Titanium carbide-based cermets possess excellent resistance to wear, high temperature, corrosion and oxidization, as well as low frictional coefficient and density. Such properties make them suitable for cutting tool applications, especially dies for the extrusion. They compare favorably in several respects with conventional WC-Co hardmetals and even with coated hardmetals. Based on economical terms the TiC-based cermets are more attractive than the WC-Co hardmetals. Some efforts were previously made to develop Mo-Ni matrix cermets reinforced by TiC particles. However, no attempt was made to explore the potential benefit of the material for wear application under high temperature. The aim of this work is to investigate microstructure and properties of TiC/NiCr cermets produced by partial liquid-phase-sintering method. An attempt was made to develop a novel type of wear-resistant composite employing a NiCr alloy matrix reinforced by TiC particles. NiCr alloy was chosen as the matrix due to its good toughness and resistance to ambient temperature.