Iron Powder-based Metal Matrix for Diamond Cutting Tools: A Review

Abstract

New material technology, advancement in manufacturing technology and development of alternate materials are key enablers for today’s process and product development. Although Diamond cutting tools has a long history started back in 1862, this industry has gone through a tremendous change in last 50 years with the development of synthetic diamond and continues exploration of alternate metal matrix materials (alternate to cobalt). For each specific application, powder for metal matrix needs careful selection based on its chemical composition, size, shape and thermal stability. Cobalt powder was the most commonly used metal matrix powder. However, fluctuating price and health concerns associated with cobalt powder has compelled the industry to search for more economical and sustainable alternative. In this context Iron and Iron based alloy powders turned out to be promising metal matrix powder alternatives for use in diamond cutting tools catering cutting, drilling, grinding, etc applications.

This paper gives an overview on the diamond cutting tools history, evolution, trends and developments with special focus on the usages of iron powder as an alternate matrix material for diamond cutting tools.