Carbide & Steel Assemblies

ACC has unique experience in manufacturing many varied products utilizing either a shrink fit or silver brazed tungsten carbide and steel assemblies. Both shrink fit and silver brazing methods require experience and knowledge to assure the assembly functions as designed in service but also the joining stress’ or correctly distributed.

During and after assembly the stress from heating and contact forces is extremely high. Because of tungsten carbide’s brittle nature caution should be taken as to the radius’, chamfers, geometry, and overall dimensions of the opposing materials. In addition, heating methods and cooling rates are important parameters to a successful assembly.

ACC has extensive experience in assembling products used as chokes, valve seats and plugs, bearings, retainers, and pump housings. Careful monitoring of the temperature and expansion of the materials is done to ensure a successful assembly. The braze joint assembly should be filled and clean providing a very clean joint. The shrink fit assembly should be positioned correctly and material expansions and stress as per the design.

Pressure testing can be done subsequently to further test for leakage and adherence.