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Density Inspection of Tungsten Carbide

Density is a direct indicator of cemented carbide densification quality, porosity, and mechanical reliability.
For tungsten carbide, achieving the correct density means the material has been sintered to a low-porosity, high-strength condition. Langsun Carbide uses precise density measurement methods to ensure every batch meets its intended performance level.

Archimedes Density Measurement Method

We measure density using a precision method based on the Archimedes principle, which is a standard approach for tungsten carbide:
1.First, the sample is accurately weighed in air using a calibrated balance.
2.Next, the sample is immersed in a liquid with a known density (typically water) and weighed again under controlled temperature conditions.
3.The density is calculated from the mass difference between air and liquid, which determines the sample volume and density.
For complex-shaped components, we may use standard test coupons sintered together with the production batch to ensure consistent measurement conditions.
Density Measurement Device for Tungsten Carbide Specimens

Why Density Is Critical to Tungsten Carbide Quality

The theoretical density of a tungsten carbide grade depends on its composition. Measured density indicates how closely the sintered material approaches that theoretical value:
High Density, Low Porosity — Indicates proper sintering, strong bonding, and high mechanical strength.
Low Density, High Porosity — Suggests incomplete sintering or processing issues, leading to reduced strength and a higher risk of fracture.
Porosity acts like an internal network of defects and can:
● Initiate cracks under bending, impact, or thermal cycling.
● Reduce hardness and wear resistance.
● Provide pathways for corrosive media to attack the binder phase.
Precise density control ensures every tungsten carbide component has the structural integrity required for demanding applications.
Density Balance for Measuring the Density of Tungsten Carbide

Density Control at Langsun Carbide

● Batch-by-Batch Verification — Density is measured and recorded for every production batch to ensure full traceability.
● Correlation with Other Metrics — Density data is analyzed together with hardness, coercivity, and magnetic saturation to verify overall material quality.
● Process Feedback — If density deviates from the specified range, we adjust powder preparation, compaction, and sintering parameters before shipment.
● Customer Documentation — Upon request, density values can be included in inspection certificates and material reports.
Through strict density control, Langsun Carbide ensures its tungsten carbide products consistently deliver excellent performance in service.
Instrument for testing the density of tungsten carbide products

Density of Common Tungsten Carbide Grades

The table below lists representative compositions and density ranges for several common WC–Co grades. Actual values may be adjusted within controlled limits to meet specific application requirements.

Grade

wCo/%

wWC/%

Theoretical Density (g/cm³)

Actual Density (g/cm³)

WC-6Co

6.0

94.0

14.92

14.86–14.96

WC-11.5Co

11.5

88.5

14.36

14.33–14.40

WC-15Co

15.0

85.0

14.02

13.85–14.20