Iron based partially pre-alloyed powders as matrix materials for diamond tools

The hardness and bend strength of diamond tool matrix materials prepared from partially pre-alloyed Fe–Cu powders and from elemental powder mixes of equivalent composition has been compared. After sintering at 890oC, the hardness of the partially pre-alloyed powder matrix was 81.72 HRB, 9.3% higher than that of the mixed powders matrix; sintering at 870oC gave the highest bend strength (634.85 MPa), 11.6% higher than that of the mixed powders matrix. The improved homogeneity of alloy elements distribution achieved in the matrix by pre-alloying was shown generally to increase the hardness and strength. The cutting performance of diamond tool segments prepared with the pre-alloyed matrix material met standard requirements; overall, the pre-alloyed material is felt to offer significant manufacturing and performance benefits.