Interfacial microstructure and mechanical strength of WC–Co/90MnCrV8 cold work tool steel diffusion bonded joint with Cu/Ni electroplated interlayer

An important challenge in the design and processing of engineering materials is to combine incompatible properties of materials in the same component. One of the most common processes for joining dissimilar materials is brazing, but as a result of the poor resistance of the joints in service at high temperatures, diffusion bonding is proposed as the best suited alternative bonding process. In the present investigation, a cemented carbide (WC–15%Co) and a cold work tool steel (90MnCrV8) have been diffusion bonded in vacuum, using a ductile interlayer. Effects of the bonding time (30–60 min) and temperature (825–850 °C) on the quality of diffusion bonding interfaces were studied. The maximum tensile strength obtained confirms a very promising technology for industrial applications.