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When most machine shop owners and operators talk about carbide products, they’re likely referring to the various cutting tools that can be made with tungsten carbide, such as drill bits, end mills, saw blades, and cutting wheels. But what many people may not be aware of are the many everyday objects that also take advantage of the hard metal’s strength.
While we’ve previously discussed six industries that rely on tungsten carbide products, today we’re going to explore ten consumer products you probably didn’t know were made with carbide. Let’s begin.
If you’ve ever wondered why your golf clubs seem to last forever, it’s because many of them contain tungsten carbide. In fact, many high-end golf clubs have a tungsten weight in the sole which lowers the center of gravity and makes the club more forgiving.
Tungsten carbide is frequently used in the jaws of pliers as it can grip hard objects tightly without running the risk of becoming stripped. Despite its strength, it can still be used on more delicate items such as fine jewelry and orthodontic brackets.
While gold and silver are still the most popular metals for wedding bands, an increasing number of couples are opting for tungsten carbide rings and bracelets. Tungsten carbide is nearly impossible to scratch and is much cheaper than gold or even platinum, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious couples who want their rings—like their marriage—to stand the test of time.
Tungsten carbide is starting to be used in the production of automotive brake pads as it has a high resistance to wear, can withstand extremely high temperatures, and helps to reduce dust and pollution. This makes it ideal for use in vehicles that do a lot of stop-and-go driving, such as city buses or taxis, and for high-end luxury vehicles, such as the Porsche Cayenne Turbo.
Some fishing lures contain tungsten carbide weights which help them sink faster and stay submerged longer. This is especially useful for deep sea fishing where the fish are often found at much greater depths.
Some of the sharpest knives in the world are made with tungsten carbide, as the metal is harder than almost any other material not named diamond. This makes it ideal for use in knife sharpeners as well, as it can quickly and easily sharpen even the dullest blades.
Scribers and engraving pens that are used for precision work often have a tungsten carbide tip. This is because tungsten carbide is one of the hardest materials available, making it perfect for use on hard metals such as steel or aluminum.
Tungsten carbide is frequently used in snowmobiles as it helps to improve the grip and wear resistance of the track. This is important as the tracks on a snowmobile are constantly in contact with the snow and ice, which can cause them to quickly wear down over time.
If you’ve ever used hiking or skiing poles, chances are they contained tungsten carbide tips. This is because tungsten carbide is very hard and can penetrate even the most stubborn snow and ice, helping to keep you firmly on your feet.
Car window glass may be tough, but it doesn’t stand a chance again tungsten carbide! Automotive escape tools made with tungsten carbide can smash through car windows with ease. This is incredibly useful in emergency situations where someone may be trapped in a vehicle and needs to be quickly extracted.
As you can see, tungsten carbide is an incredibly versatile material that has a wide range of practical applications. From golf clubs to car window breakers, there are few consumer products that can’t benefit from the additional strength of carbide. So the next time you’re using one of these carbide products, take a moment to appreciate the engineering marvel that is tungsten carbide!
Are you a product manufacturer looking to enhance the durability and longevity of your merchandise? Shop our selection of carbide rods, STB strips, and more. Can’t find what you need? Send your request to info@completecarbide.com and we will be happy to let you know if it’s something we can source on your behalf.
