Tungsten carbide components are not used everywhere due to their cost, but they are indispensable in specific, high-stakes applications. You will typically find them in:
Precision Instrumentation: Used as guide pins, mandrels, and wear parts in measuring devices where minimal wear is crucial for accuracy.
Wire Drawing and Forming: As drawing dies and guides, where they withstand the extreme abrasion of metal wires being pulled through them.
Pump and Valve Components: In harsh chemical or slurry processing industries, WC sleeves protect shafts and housings from abrasive and corrosive fluids.
Automation and Robotics: In high-speed, high-precision assembly lines where components must endure millions of cycles without failure.
Oil & Gas Downhole Tools: Used as wear sleeves on drill strings and tool joints to protect against the abrasive rock formations.