Effects Of Rare Earth Addition On Microstructure And Properties Of Cemented Carbides

The effects of the form of rare earth compounds and the doping processing on the microstructure and properties were investigated by means of metal cutting test, thermal simulation, XRD, SEM, TEM, EDS and AES etc. The results were concluded as following:LA small amount of rare earth addition (<0.3wt%)to the YT14 cemented carbide could increase its transverse rupture strength (TRS) by 10%,wear resistance and toughness by about 50% and 20% respectively.2.The alloy doped with rare earth elements by hydrometallurgical process showed more stable properties than those by other doping processes.3. Rare earth elements could increase the high-temperature plasticity of the alloy, thus improving its service performance.4. Since the rare earth element addition could inhibit the diffusion of W, Ti and some other atoms in the tool bits into the machined part and Fe atoms in the machined part into the tool bits, theresistance of the tool bits to the abrasion due to oxidization wasincreased.5. Rare earth elements could extend the solubility of W, Ti andsome other solute atoms in the binder phase and inhibit itsmartensite phase transformation, thus strengthening the alloy.