Metal alternatives to tungsten carbide
The Problem
- Over reliance on tungsten carbide in manufacturing tools, such as cutting blades
- Given its durability and resistance to high temperatures, it is more desirable than steel
- Due to its high demand, the compound is now 'at-risk' on the European Commission's critical raw material list.
Our research
- A five-year EU-funded project to develop metal- ceramic composite alternatives to tungsten carbide
- Worked in partnership with SME C4 Carbides based in Cambridge
- Our research improved quality issues affecting one of their key products, a specialist cutting tool.
Research Impact
- Propelled C4 Carbides from a niche SME to a global leader in specialist cutting tools
- Generated over £50 million in retail sales
- Benefitted multinational tool providers such as Stanley Black and Deck, Bosch and AEG.
Researchers:
- Prof Andreas Chrysanthou
- Prof Yong Chen
- James O’Sullivan