You won't typically find them in your daily commuter car—they are a premium solution for severe-duty environments where failure is not an option. Their primary applications include:
High-Performance Racing Engines: Formula 1, NASCAR, Top Fuel dragsters, and professional drifting engines. These engines run at extremely high RPMs and temperatures, causing immense wear on components.
Forced Induction Engines: Engines with turbochargers or superchargers generate much higher cylinder pressures and temperatures, accelerating valve seat wear. Tungsten Carbide is often used to ensure reliability.
Industrial and Marine Engines: Large-bore engines that run continuously under heavy load, such as those in generators, ships, or compressors, benefit greatly from the extended service life and reduced downtime offered by Tungsten Carbide.
Engines Running on Alternative Fuels: Some alternative fuels can be more abrasive or offer less lubrication than gasoline, making hardened valve seats a necessity.