Silicon Carbide

Silicon Carbide (SiC)

Compared with corundum, silicon carbide has a higher hardness, and in return a considerably lower toughness. It is therefore particularly suitable for working the following materials:

all types of glass, ceramics, stone and in some cases also engineering ceramics
aluminium, copper, bronze, brass
austenitic steels, rust-, acid- and heat-proof steels
high-alloy hardened steels (tool steels), nitriding steels
grey cast iron, malleable cast iron and cast steel
carbides in the sintered and hardened state
organic materials such as leather, plastics

Because of the high heat conductivity, silicon carbide is used in all instances where it is essential to take into consideration the heat sensitivity of the material to be worked. These can be, for example, components of high-alloy steels used in aircraft construction.

The above list of materials which are suitable for working with silicon carbide is to be regarded as a summary. As is known, silicon carbide is produced in a green and in a "dark" version.

Pale green silicon carbide has an extremely good cutting ability, and because of its particular chipping characteristics, which are described as "sharp-edged and pointed" is to be found in use where the hardness of the material and/or the high elongation are typical features. In terms of hardness, pale green silicon carbide is still the best substitute for diamond if this is ruled out for reasons of cost.

Dark silicon carbide is very hard, but significantly less brittle than the "green version". It chips block-like, comparable to regular corundum, but in contrast to the latter sharp edges are formed. These give dark silicon carbide its typical properties.

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