Modeling the Influence of Orientation Texture on the Strength of WC–Co Composites |
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Authors: | Chang-Soo Kim Ted R. Massa Gregory S. Rohrer |
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Affiliation: | Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213; Kennametal Incorporated, Corporate Technology, 1600 Technology Way, P.O. Box 231, Latrobe, Pennsylvania 15650 |
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Abstract: | Two-dimensional finite element simulations were used to study the effects of orientation texture on the transverse rupture strengths of WC–Co composites. The model incorporates observed microstructural geometries, anisotropic thermal and elastic properties, and a fracture criterion that reproduces the strengths of known specimens. The results show that the greatest potential for increasing the strength occurs when the [001] axes of the carbide grains are orientated perpendicular to the sample loading direction. Furthermore, the strength increases in proportion to the degree of texture, and the texture-derived strength enhancement is greater in microstructures with a larger contiguity. |
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