Microstructure and cutting performance investigation of Ti(C, N)-based cermets containing various types of secondary carbides

In this paper, the effects of type and amount of various secondary carbides on the microstructure and cutting performance of Ti(C0.7N0.3)–12Co system have been investigated. Nine alloys with different amounts of WC, Mo2C and Ta0.7Nb0.3C additives were studied, using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Vickers hardness (HV), transverse rupture strength (TRS) and continuous turning tests. Alloys including Mo2C and WC presented finer carbonitride grain structure, as well as higher wear resistance resulting from their higher hardness and highly solution hardened binder phase.