The contrac-or fabricated samples of cemented carbides based on tantaluni
carbide and niobium carbide with cobalt and nickel binders. These
materials were evaluated for use as rock-bit inserts in geothermal
drilling. Carbon content i n the niobium carbide (NIX,) and the tantalum
carbide (TaCx) was varied (x is O.&3 to 1.0) and the effect of
these changes on the carbides ’ mechanical proper ties was examined. Hardness,
toughness, and abrasive wear resistance of the new materials were
measured and compared to properties of tungsten carbide grades used in
rock-bit inserts.
