Effect of Mo₂C/(Mo₂C + WC) weight ratio on the microstructure and mechanical properties of Ti(C,N)-based cermet tool materials

To optimize the Mo₂C content in Ti(C,N)-based cermet tool materials used for cutting the high-strength steel of 42CrMo (AISI 4140/4142 steel), the cermets with different Mo₂C/(Mo₂C + WC) weight ratios were prepared. And the microstructure and mechanical properties of cermets were investigated by scanning electron microscope (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and measurements of transverse rupture strength (TRS), Vickers hardness (HV) and fracture toughness (K_IC). The results indicate that the Mo₂C/(Mo₂C + WC) ratios have great influences on the microstructure features and mechanical properties of Ti(C,N)-based cermets. When the Mo₂C/(Mo₂C + WC) ratio increases, the Ti(C,N) grains become finer with smaller black cores surrounded by thinner rims, and the structure of cermets tends to be more compact with smaller binder mean free path. Owing to the medium grains and moderate rims, the cermets with a Mo₂C/(Mo₂C + WC) ratio of 0.4 exhibit better mechanical properties, and can be chosen as the tool material for machining 42CrMo steel due to the lower Mo content. - Highlights: • Mo₂C/(Mo₂C + WC) ratios affect microstructure and mechanical properties of cermets. • Grains become fine and structure of cermets tends to be compact with raised Mo₂C. • The cermets with a Mo₂C/(Mo₂C + WC) ratio of 0.4 can be used to machine 42CrMo steel