Reactivity of carbon based materials for powder metallurgy parts and hard metal powders manufacturing

Carbon is a key element for powder metallurgy. For example, carbon is the basic alloying element in PM sintered steel, and carbon powders are used as a carbon source for the production of hard metals. However, there are only a few studies about the mechanisms of carbon dissolution and reactivity in dependence on the carbon sources with solid metals/oxides. This work presents the effect of the carbon source (different graphite and carbon black types) on the reactivity and efficiency of oxides reduction during the sintering of PM steels and on the synthesis of nanocrystalline WC powders. This experimental work sets the basis for optimizing the production of PM steel parts and nano-WC powders based on raw material selection and process conditions.