Since its introduction to the market in the 1970's, the unique cutting tool properties of polycrystalline diamond (PCD) have been well documented and amply illustrated, particularly in the automotive industry. Trends in the manufacturing industry environment towards ever higher production rates and the drive for weight savings through the use of high-strength composites (often highly abrasive) now mean that PCD is often the preferred cutting tool material. Specific examples lie in the machining of hyper-eutectic aluminium alloys, medium density fibreboard and glass reinforced plastic. However, the mechanical and physical properties that make PCD so suitable for machining such materials also make PCD an excellent choice of material in extreme tribological or wear applications. This paper explores the theoretical wear properties of PCD. Results gained from industry standard laboratory tests (such as pin on disc and sand/water impingement) are also presented and discussed. The paper concludes with a number of documented case histories in which the use of PCD resulted in significant cost reduction compared with conventional wear materials, or provided improved working limits for the discerning design engineer.
