Effect of Fe content on the mechanical properties of a regenerated cemented carbide

Abstract

Impurity elements such as Fe, Ni, Zn, and Ca introduced in the recycling process of regenerated cemented carbide affect the structure and mechanical properties of the regenerated cemented carbide. Unlike other impurity elements, Fe and Co belong to group VIII elements and have similar chemical and physical properties. The nature of Fe is closely related to the size and type of waste cemented carbide during recycling and pollution observed during production. Waste cemented carbide is processed via zinc melting to obtain WC, and the regenerated YG10 cemented carbide was prepared via low‐pressure sintering in this study. The effects of impurity element Fe on the microstructure and mechanical properties of a regenerated cemented carbide were studied via X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, magnetic property tests, and mechanical property tests. This study demonstrates that an increase in the Fe content leads to a decrease in the bending strength and hardness; further, the mechanism of grain growth caused by the increase in Fe content is revealed. In addition, the mechanism of decreasing wear resistance of the regenerated YG10 cemented carbide with increasing Fe content was discussed. The introduction of Fe as an impurity has evident adverse effects on the mechanical properties of the alloy. To satisfy the production requirements, the Fe content in the mixed powder must to be retained within 0.5%.