Formation of the gradient structure in sintered hard alloys (review)

Papers on the formation of gradient structures in sintered hard alloys have been reviewed. It has been shown that at present there are three directions in the development of gradient structures. The first of them involves the application of surface layers to a hard alloy product by depositing carbides, nitrides, oxides of various chemical elements in different combinations. The second involves the formation of the layer structure in a product during machining or as a result of the action of high-energy beams of electrons and ions, as well as by a laser treatment. The third direction involves the development of technologies of the creation of gradient structures in the bulk of sintered hard alloy products. The work in all three directions is aimed at adapting hard alloy product to its working conditions and thus increasing its efficiency.