Characterization and forming process of a functionally graded WC–Co/Ni composite

A functionally graded WC–Co/Ni composite (FGWC) is successfully fabricated. The FGWC is composed of WC–Co layer, transitional layer and Ni layer. The transitional layer with graded variation of WC particles and Ni phases serves as the buffer zone to relax thermal stress. Liquid phase sintering has considerable influence on the forming process of the transitional layer. The microhardness values of the transitional layer gradually decrease along the direction of WC–Co layer to Ni layer.

► A functionally graded WC–Co/Ni composite has been successfully fabricated.
► WC particles decrease and Ni phases increase simultaneously in transitional layer.
► Liquid phase sintering has considerable influence on the forming process of transitional layer.
► The microhardness of transitional layer gradually decreases along gradient direction.