Tungsten Carbide Electrode Disc
Product Overview
Tungsten Carbide Electrode Discs are disc-shaped components manufactured through powder metallurgy using a tungsten carbide (WC) matrix. These discs offer exceptional hardness, superior wear resistance, and reliable electrical conductivity, making them ideal for industrial applications including resistance welding electrodes, precision EDM (Electrical Discharge Machining), and wear-resistant mechanical seals.
Technical Specifications & Performance Parameters
| Parameter |
Typical Value / Range |
Remarks |
| Base Material |
WC + Co (YG series) / WC + Ni |
Cobalt content typically 6%-15% |
| Hardness (HRA) |
88.0 - 92.0 |
Hardness increases as cobalt content decreases |
| Density (g/cm³) |
14.5 - 15.0 |
High density ensures wear resistance |
| Electrical Resistivity (μΩ*cm) |
20 - 40 |
Lower than cemented carbide; suitable for electrodes |
| Transverse Rupture Strength (MPa) |
≥1800 |
Depends on specific grade and sintering process |
| Operating Temperature |
≤800°C (in inert atmosphere) |
Oxidation starts at approx. 500°C in air |
| Diameter Tolerance |
±0.01 mm or custom |
Usually requires matched grinding |
| Thickness Tolerance |
±0.01 mm |
Flatness up to 0.005 mm |
Main Applications
- Resistance Welding Electrodes - Used for welding stainless steel, nickel strips, or precision electronic components. The high compressive strength reduces electrode deformation during continuous welding and extends dressing intervals.
- EDM Electrodes - Used in electrical discharge machines for machining hardened steel or carbide dies. Compared to copper electrodes, the wear rate is significantly lower, better preserving sharp corners in cavities.
- Wear-resistant Mechanical Components - Used as seal rings, bearing retainers, or guide rings, leveraging their unique combination of hardness and conductivity for specific sensing or electrical connection functions.
Processing & Usage Recommendations
- Forming Method - Raw blanks are sintered and extremely hard (>72 HRC). Final dimensions must be achieved by grinding with diamond wheels or wire EDM. Conventional turning or milling is not possible.
- Mounting & Fitting - Due to relatively low impact toughness (lower than high-speed steel), avoid hammering the edges during installation. Shrink fitting or clamp plates are recommended.
Selection Guide
When selecting a tungsten carbide electrode disc, consider the following factors:
- Grain Size - Ultrafine grain (≤0.5μm) suits high-precision micro-machining; medium/coarse grain suits high-current roughing.
- Binder Phase Ratio - High cobalt content (>10%) offers better toughness and crack resistance; low cobalt content (<6%) offers higher hardness and better arc erosion resistance.