Characterization of WC–VC–Co thermal spray powders and coatings

The composition and microstructure of agglomerated and sintered WC–VC–Co thermal spray powders and of the high pressure/high velocity oxy-fuel (HP/HVOF) coatings produced from the powders were analysed and compared to those of agglomerated and sintered commercial WC–Co thermal spray powders of equal Co mass fraction and of the commercial WC–Co coatings that were deposited under the same conditions as the WC–VC–Co coatings. The results of the analyses helped to explain the abrasion resistance of WC–VC–Co coatings being superior to that of WC–Co coatings.