Tungsten Carbide vs. Tungsten Steel

Attribute	Tungsten Carbide	Tungsten Steel
Composition	Contains tungsten carbide particles bonded with a metal binder	Contains tungsten alloyed with carbon and other elements
Hardness	Extremely hard and wear-resistant	Hard, but not as hard as tungsten carbide
Strength	High strength	High strength
Toughness	Brittle	Less brittle than tungsten carbide
Applications	Cutting tools, wear parts, jewelry	Cutting tools, dies, drills

Composition

Tungsten carbide is a compound made up of tungsten and carbon atoms. It is a ceramic material that is extremely hard and durable, making it ideal for use in cutting tools, drills, and other industrial applications. Tungsten steel, on the other hand, is a type of high-speed steel that contains tungsten as one of its main alloying elements. It is known for its toughness and ability to retain its hardness at high temperatures.

Hardness

One of the key differences between tungsten carbide and tungsten steel is their hardness. Tungsten carbide is one of the hardest materials known to man, with a hardness rating of around 9 on the Mohs scale. This makes it extremely resistant to wear and abrasion, making it ideal for use in cutting and drilling applications. Tungsten steel, while still quite hard, is not as hard as tungsten carbide and may not be as suitable for applications where extreme hardness is required.

Strength

When it comes to strength, tungsten carbide is also superior to tungsten steel. Tungsten carbide has a high compressive strength, making it able to withstand heavy loads and high pressures without deforming or breaking. Tungsten steel, while strong, may not be able to withstand the same level of pressure as tungsten carbide. This makes tungsten carbide a better choice for applications where strength is a critical factor.

Toughness

While tungsten carbide is extremely hard and strong, it is also quite brittle. This means that it may be prone to chipping or breaking under certain conditions. Tungsten steel, on the other hand, is known for its toughness and ability to absorb impact without fracturing. This makes tungsten steel a better choice for applications where toughness is more important than extreme hardness.

Corrosion Resistance

Another important factor to consider when comparing tungsten carbide and tungsten steel is their resistance to corrosion. Tungsten carbide is highly resistant to corrosion, making it ideal for use in harsh environments where exposure to chemicals or moisture is a concern. Tungsten steel, while still relatively corrosion-resistant, may not be as resistant as tungsten carbide. This makes tungsten carbide a better choice for applications where corrosion resistance is a critical factor.

Cost

When it comes to cost, tungsten carbide is typically more expensive than tungsten steel. This is due to the complex manufacturing process required to produce tungsten carbide, as well as its superior hardness and strength. Tungsten steel, on the other hand, is more affordable and easier to manufacture, making it a more cost-effective option for some applications. However, the higher cost of tungsten carbide may be justified by its superior performance in certain applications.

Applications

Both tungsten carbide and tungsten steel have a wide range of applications in various industries. Tungsten carbide is commonly used in cutting tools, drills, mining equipment, and wear parts due to its extreme hardness and wear resistance. Tungsten steel is often used in high-speed cutting tools, such as drills and end mills, as well as in applications where toughness and impact resistance are important. The choice between tungsten carbide and tungsten steel will depend on the specific requirements of the application.