Performance of diamond drill bits with hybrid nanoreinforced Fe-Ni-Mo binder

Abstract

In this study, the possibility of applying novel Fe-Ni-Mo-based alloys in diamond tool binders is shown. Nanoparticles of tungsten carbide, hexagonal boron nitride, and carbon nanotubes were used for binder reinforcement. It is established that simultaneous addition of all three types of nanoparticles allows one to achieve the highest mechanical and tribological properties of Fe-Ni-Mo alloy. The machining tests of drill bits equipped with experimental binders demonstrated that nanoparticle reinforcement enhances wear resistance of tools, their service life, and diamond retention within the working layer. Furthermore, an analysis of the tool surface and diamond condition after tests showed a good correlation between binder strength and diamond retention capacity. The positive role played by tungsten carbide nanoparticles involves both Orowan strengthening of the binder and a better chemical bonding at the binder–diamond interphase.