From September 29th to October 2st, 2024, Malmö, Sweden, hosted the Euro PM2024 Congress & Exhibition, a prominent event for the powder metallurgy community in Europe. Organized by the European Powder Metallurgy Association (EPMA), this prestigious international congress brought together industry professionals, researchers and sector leaders to share insights on the latest innovations and technological trends.
During the event Dr. De Gaudenzi, head of HI.Lab, represented OMCD Group with an highly impactful scientific presentation, awarded as a Keynote Lecture. This esteemed recognition confirms the significance and the importance of the innovative research conducted by our physical- metallurgical laboratory in the field of Hard Metals, highlighting its influence on an international scale.
Innovation in Hard Metals: the approach of Functionally Graded Materials
The presentation, titled “Functionally Graded Hardmetal Systems for Applications Requiring Corrosion and Abrasion Resistance”, focused on applying Functionally Graded Materials (FGM) to cubic carbide-free hard metals. The FGM approach developed by HI.Lab enables optimization of mechanical properties in specific areas of a component, allowing performance customization according to application requirements. This work particularly emphasizes the combination of corrosion and wear resistance on the outer layer while maintaining structural toughness in the core.
A composite structure for outstanding performance
The method studied involves obtaining a nickel-based outer layer, known for its corrosion resistance, sintered over a cobalt-based core with medium-sized tungsten carbide grains. This combination creates an external barrier resistant to wear and corrosion, while preserving an internal structure with high toughness. The study delves into the concentration gradients of nickel and cobalt, assessing their effects on mechanical properties and corrosion resistance. Additives such as chromium, molybdenum, and copper were included to further enhance corrosion resistance, particularly in simulated marine environments.
New perspectives for extreme applications
HI.Lab’s FGM approach opens new opportunities for applications requiring materials that withstand extreme conditions of corrosion and wear, while maintaining internal toughness to support high-stress conditions.
This prestigious recognition celebrates the valuable work of our laboratory and strengthens OMCD Group’s position as a leader in research and development of advanced, customized solutions in the Hard Metals sector.
