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  for Metal Finishing since 1989
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TUNGSTEN CARBIDE COATING

I HAVE A SPHERICAL BALL (440C MATERIAL)COATED WITH TUNGSTEN CARBIDE. THE BALL IS OVERSIZE FOR GRIND/POLISHED. WHAT'S THE BEST WAY TO DO TO GIVE THE SPHERICAL BALL A 4 RMS SURFACE FINISH AFTER GRIND/POLISH?

ROBERT BANTILLO
MFG. ENGR. - SANTA ANA, California, USA
2006

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Probably the simplest way to improve the surface finish is run your parts in a barrel tumbler with a good liquid compound with lubricity and no media.

AF Kenton
retired business owner - Hatboro, Pennsylvania
2006

Tungsten carbide is VERY hard and corrosion resistant. And depending on the method of application and binder used (nickel or cobalt are the most frequent) may also be very tough to abrade. I doubt that a low pressure media with little or no abrasive at all will improve its surface much. You mention that the surface is or will be ground and polished. How fine is the finish attained by the polishing, how thick is the coating at this point, how is the WC deposited and how big are the balls?

Guillermo Marrufo
Monterrey, NL, Mexico
2006