The sintering behavior and properties of nano-grained WC-10Co composite powders

The vacuum sintering behavior of nano-grained WC-10Co composite powders synthesized by mechanical alloy has been investigated. The porosity, the micro hardness of specimen dependence on the sintering time, the sintering temperatures were analyzed, and the effect of a new inhibitor was evaluated. The result show that relative density of 98.6% for specimen sintering at 1325 degrees C, 15 min can be achieved; with the increment of sintering time or the promotion of sintering temperatures, the micro hardness of specimen first increased and after decreased, the highest micro hardness attained 22 950 MPa; the new inhibitor modified nanometer ZrO2 benefits both the inhibition of grain growth and the increment of density, and the performance of alloy with this inhibitor can be promoted vastly.