What is Carbide?
Carbide is a cemented matrix of tungsten carbide particles in cobalt. The formation of the tip material is similar in concept to concrete in which sand and gravel are cemented together with a limestone clay mixture. In carbide, the tungsten carbide particles are embedded in cobalt. To manufacture carbide, the tungsten carbide particles are first mixed together as fine powders and heated to 2700-2800 degrees F. Once the tungsten and carbide have combined, cobalt is added and the mixture is subjected to pressures in a die of up to 30 tons. The resulting tools shape is then heated in two stages (presintering and sintering) in an atmosphere controlled furnace to achieve final hardness.

 

Why use Carbide?
Carbide is extremely hard and not subject to mechanical deformation in use. It is up to 20 times more resistent to wear than the finest saw steel. Finally, it is cost effective since carbide tips can be replaced simply and easily when they are worn out. Saw blade life is greatly extended while cutting quality and speed are maintained throughout the life of the blade.