A study on the mechanical behaviour of WC/Co hardmetals

The hardmetal cutting tools used in machining are submitted to extreme conditions in terms of temperature and mechanical loading. A better understanding of the failure of cutting tools and capability to predict tool life are key factors in the development of new tool materials with improved mechanical behaviour. Main failure mechanisms are wear, thermal–mechanical fatigue and brittle fracture. The aim of present work is to study the mechanical behaviour of two hardmetals. The properties studied were Young’s modulus, bending strength, fracture toughness and fatigue endurance. The resonant technique was used to determine elastic properties and a good agreement was found with three-point bending results.