Status of Tungsten Carbide in the Woodworking Industry

There are four basic points to be considered in the application of tungsten carbide: l) Tungsten carbide is not of the steel family and should not be treated as such. 2) Hardness, high rigidity, and wear-resistance of tungsten carbide make possible the economic machining of wood and wood synthetics that heretofore has not been practical. Basic improvement of the product being machined is also possible. 3) It is necessary to know the best methods of maintaining carbide tools. Diamond jointing and grinding are necessary for maximum performance. 4) Cooperation between the carbide supplier and the user is paramount. Better efficiency can be had with new equipment but an old machine in a good state of repair can make an excellent showing with tungsten carbide. The adaptation of solid tungsten carbide knives is a basic step that makes today’s success possible in contrast to previous brazed-carbide knife applications. Knives are not the only application of tungsten carbide of interest to the woodworking industry. It is also used in pulp and paper mills and, for such applications as debarking nozzles, pump sleeves, and band saw guides.

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