NbC was studied as the major carbide phase with Ni and Co binders, produced by both spark plasma sintering (SPS) and liquid phase sintering (LPS), and tested as cutting inserts during dry and MQL (Minimum quantity lubrication) face-milling of grey cast iron (GCI) (BS 1452, Grade 17).
Tungsten carbide (WC) based cemented carbides have a good combination of hardness, strength and toughness, making them key materials for cutting tool industry.