Cemented carbide,usually called hardmetal, is produced by mixing a metal carbide, such as tungsten, with a metallic binder material that is usually cobalt, nickel or a combination of both. This mixture is generally held together by an organic binder and formed into a desired shape, known as a preform.

Tungsten carbide has a compressive strength greater than any other metal or alloy and is three times more rigid than steel. Abrasion resistance is up to 100 times greater than steel. Thermal expansion is less than one-half that of steel, and tungsten carbide resists thermal shock and oxidation temeratures up to 1200°F (648.89°C). Tungsten carbide compositions have exceptional resistance to galling and welding at the surface and can withstand cryogenic temperatures to -453°F (-269.44°C) while retaining their toughness and abrasive qualities. Since carbides are nearly chemically inert, they are ideally suited for wear applications in corrosive environments.

The properties of various tungsten carbide grades are determined by the composition of elements added and by the grain size. Quality is a matter of tight control over processing time, temperature and atmosphere as well as the complete absence of chemical or physical contamination.

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