(V) Examples of applied Computational Thermodynamics and Kinetics in product&process development and research

In this work the use of computaitonal tools based thermodymaic and kinetic modelling in modern product and process development will be given. The specific examples regardes gradient sintering in cemented carbides for metal cutting, macro gradient design for new rock drilling carbides and the interactive methodology to understand also the wear behavior of the products in use. The examples will include using the Thermo-calc software package for thermodynamic calculations and the Dictra software for diffusion.

The thermodynamic data is based on models for the equilibrium the Gibbs energy expression of each individual phase. The Gibbs energies can be used to calculate phase equilibria, thermodynamic properties, and driving forces. To be able to apply computational thermodynamics to hardmetal systems, relevant thermodynamic databases are needed. The database used for the present work was developed by coupling experimental investigations with modelling.

The micro- and macro- gradients typically present in cemented carbides for metal turning and rock drilling are modelled using the DICTRA software package . However , the industrial benefit of using the Therrmocalc and DICTRA pakage will also be applied to understanding machining of Ti-alloys with different amount of β-stablilsers and how to create and use interfacial phase diagrams for designing grain boundaries in submicron cemented carbide. In conclusion how to use these tools for driving product developent and innovaition at a faster pace.