Liquid Phase Diffusion Analysis of WC–Co–Ni–Fe/HSS Composite Materials Based on DICTRA

Thermo-Calc and DICTRA software simulations were used to predict the feasibility of Co–Ni–Fe additives applied to WC/HSS composites, and WC–Co–Ni–Fe/HSS composites were prepared. The elemental diffusion behavior in the WC-steel composites using Co, Ni and Fe additive was investigated. The results showed that the Co–Ni–Fe additive forms more liquid phase at lower temperatures, and the Co–Ni–Fe additive has a larger pre-exponential factor and lower diffusion activation energy. The results of the experimental sample demonstrate that the Co–Ni–Fe elements in the WC region are uniformly distributed around the WC. The Co, Ni, Fe and Cr elements mutual diffuse in the WC and HSS regions, with the Co and Fe elements being more pronounced. The diffusion of W is almost non-existent. The Co–No–Fe additive contributes to the bonding of the WC to the HSS and facilitates the densification of the WC region. The simulation results are consistent with the experimental results.