The Benefits of Carbide Tipped Tools

Posted: Dec 07, 2009 | Views: 199 |

Carbide (also known as titanium carbide or tungsten carbide) is a chemical compound that is commonly used for tipping cutting tools. Carbide is hard and durable, but most importantly, it stays sharp for longer periods of time than most other metals. While too brittle and expensive to be used for the entire tool body, carbide is the ideal tip for saws blades, routers, lathe bits, and drill bits. I recommend seeking out carbide tipped saw blades and routers if you plan on doing serious metal or wood working. The following is some basic information you should know before considering or selecting a carbide-tipped tool.

  • Carbide is both highly heat resistant (melting point of 2,870 °C / 5,200 °F) and extremely hard (8.5–9.0 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness.)
  • Carbide tipped saw blades have a longer “tool life” than basic steel tools because of their extreme durability. This is especially relevant for higher speeds and feeds associated with more aggressive machining. If you plan on using your tool frequently on hard or dense materials, carbide tips are a must.
  • Carbide tipped tools are slightly more expensive, but they stay sharp anywhere from ten to twenty times longer than a simple steel tip.
  • Carbide tips are also less likely to crater when machining more abrasive materials.
  • Because of its strength, carbide sharpening requires a specific type of abrasive, preferably something coated in diamond or a carbide abrasive wheel.
  • C-2 carbide tips are used for cutting non-ferrous materials such as cast iron.
  • C-5 carbide tips are used for cutting steel materials.

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