The tool lifes of uncoated NiMo and NiMo2C-bonded stoichiometric NbC1.0 grades under dry turning 42CrMo4 and C45E were between +30 % to + 100 % higher and up compared to WC-6Co (fine grain). Niobium is today largely available. NbC grades displayed lower dry sliding friction over WC grades.
In the present work it was shown that the properties of NbCx, like micro-hardness, hot-hardness, sliding wear resistance, elastic modulus and toughness can be tailored by the C/Nb ratio, the addition of secondary carbides and the type of binder.