Comparing Properties of Tungsten Metal and Tungsten Carbide

Which Material is Superior for Various Properties: Tungsten Metal or Tungsten Carbide?

Comparison of Tungsten Metal (W) and Tungsten Carbide (WC)

1. Melting point: Tungsten > Tungsten carbide

2. Corrosion resistance: Tungsten > Tungsten carbide

3. Ultimate compressive strength: Tungsten < Tungsten carbide

4. Modulus of elasticity: Tungsten > Tungsten carbide

5. Electrical conductivity: Tungsten > Tungsten carbide

6. Ductility: Tungsten > Tungsten carbide

7. Yield stress: Tungsten < Tungsten carbide

Detail Comparison of Tungsten Metal and Tungsten Carbide Properties

Melting point: Tungsten has a higher melting point than tungsten carbide. Tungsten has a melting point of 3,422 degrees Celsius, while tungsten carbide has a melting point of around 2,870 degrees Celsius.

Corrosion resistance: Tungsten is more resistant to corrosion than tungsten carbide. This is due to the oxide layer present on tungsten, making it a more suitable material for cutting tools and ammunition.

Ultimate compressive strength: Tungsten carbide has a higher ultimate compressive strength compared to tungsten. Tungsten carbide is commonly used in cutting tools and armor-piercing ammunition due to its high strength.

Modulus of elasticity: Tungsten has a higher modulus of elasticity compared to tungsten carbide. This indicates that tungsten is better at resisting deformation under stress.

Electrical conductivity: Tungsten is more electrically conductive than tungsten carbide. This makes tungsten suitable for applications requiring high conductivity, such as in light bulb filaments.

Ductility: Tungsten is more ductile than tungsten carbide, meaning it can be easily bent and deformed without breaking, unlike tungsten carbide which is brittle.

Yield stress: Tungsten carbide has a higher yield stress compared to tungsten. This means tungsten carbide can withstand more stress before deforming permanently.

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