A new view of the deterioration and wear of WC/Co cemented carbide rock drill buttons

摘要: WC/Co cemented carbide is a material developed for highly demanding applications. The unique combination of hardness and toughness makes it especially suitable wear resistant parts tools rock drilling. drill buttons has been the focus numerous studies, large amount data published. However, broad range possible mechanisms, number types very different character, finally local property variations even within single hole, made difficult to sort out good general understanding. One conclusion stands clear: one in type that particular situation should not be expected apply other drills types. Even so, some mechanisms can observed. Against this backdrop, paper seeks present new, more comprehensive, view on deterioration buttons. new combines most important aspects, including two life limiting factors, five classes removal mechanisms. based careful high resolution investigations worn selected from drilling includes fundamental change properties due intermixing surface layer button. It further corrosive decay oxidation WC formation large-scale cracks reptile skin pattern.