Selection
Tungsten carbide comes in various grades (e.g., YG, YT, YW series), which differ in tungsten carbide grain size and cobalt content, resulting in varying degrees of hardness, wear resistance, and toughness. The most suitable grade should be selected based on the properties of the material being cut (hardness, wear resistance, toughness, adhesiveness), cutting method (speed, pressure), and precision requirements. For example:
Cutting soft materials such as paper or film: Choose medium- to fine-grained grades with good toughness and sufficient wear resistance.
Cutting glass fiber, carbon fiber, or high-sandpaper-content corrugated board: Opt for ultra-fine-grained or special grades with ultra-high wear resistance and excellent chipping resistance.
Cutting metal foils (e.g., copper or aluminum foils): Select ultra-fine-grained grades with extremely sharp edges and special surface treatments.
Edge Treatment
Edge Angle: Choose the appropriate edge angle based on the material (e.g., sharp acute angles for soft and fine materials, slightly blunter angles for hard and brittle materials to enhance strength).
Edge Form: Flat edges, serrated edges, wave edges, etc., adapt to different material characteristics (e.g., anti-slip serrations to prevent material slippage).
Surface Finish: A high-gloss edge reduces friction and adhesion, especially for sticky materials (e.g., adhesive tape, hot melt glue).
Coating Selection: Choosing the right coating for specific applications can significantly enhance performance (e.g., TiAlN coatings are heat-resistant and suitable for high-speed cutting, while diamond-like carbon (DLC) coatings have low friction coefficients and are ideal for cutting adhesive materials).
Equipment Requirements
High Rigidity: The shafts, bearings, and frames used to mount tungsten carbide blades must have sufficient rigidity to prevent chipping caused by vibration.
High Precision: Good dynamic balance, radial runout, and axial runout control are essential to ensure cutting quality and tool longevity.
Proper Installation: Ensure the tool is securely mounted, concentric, and with accurately adjusted clearances.
Usage and Maintenance
Avoid Impact: Tungsten carbide is brittle; avoid hammering or collision.
Reasonable Load: Avoid overload cutting.
Timely Cleaning: Prevent the accumulation of cutting debris or adhesive materials, which can affect cutting performance and damage the edge.
Proper Sharpening: After dulling, professional sharpening with diamond grinding wheels should be performed to restore sharpness and ensure geometric accuracy. Improper sharpening can severely compromise tool performance.
Proper Storage: Avoid impact, apply rust-preventive oil, and store in a dry place.
