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The term carbide colors often refers to the colors or finishes applied to carbide-tipped tools, which are usually based on the materials used to coat or tip the tools. This is to alleviate tool wear and is sometimes done for aesthetic or branding reasons. Below are some common types of colors and coatings found on carbide tools:
Silver or Metallic Gray
The most obvious and most common color of carbide tools is silver or metallic gray carbide itself, which comes from the steel tungsten compound used to make it. This color is usually applied to the tool itself, though coatings or other treatments can change it.)
Black Titanium Nitride (TiN)
Titanium nitride is usually applied to carbide tools as a coating, which gives it a golden metallic finish. Sometimes, however, titanium diboride may be used instead. When applied, TiN gives an appearance bronze metallic finish. This coating not only changes the color of the tool but also increases durability and reduces friction.
Blue Titanium Nitride
As Mentioned Above, Titanium nitride is usually applied to carbide tools, giving it a golden metallic finish. However, occasionally, titanium diboride may be used instead, which gives a deep purple or royal purple look.
Rose Gold PVD Coating
Rose gold color, popular in many modern tools due to its aesthetic appeal, results from a PVD coating combining titanium and other metals.
Black Oxide Coating
This creates a deep black, lustrous finish. Black oxide not only changes the tool's color but also improves corrosion resistance.
Red Epoxy or Enamel Coating
These coatings give a bright red color used primarily for aesthetic reasons and to provide some level of protection against corrosion.
Green Carbide Tool Coating
Some manufacturers use a green epoxy or enamel coating on their tools and equipment, which protects them from corrosion and also prevents the tools and equipment from being stolen. The bright green color makes it easier to spot tools and equipment around the work site.
Designing the appearance of carbide-tipped tools requires balancing function and aesthetics. The coating or color applied to these tools does the following:
Functionality & Durability
For example, coatings like titanium nitride and titanium carbon nitride serve the dual purpose of extending the tool's life and improving cutting performance while simultaneously providing an attractive finish.
Coating Thickness & Uniformity
Using machines with advanced technology, tool manufacturers apply color and coatings evenly across the tool's surface. This evenness ensures that the tool's functionality is not hampered, and it also gives the tool an attractive finish.
Color & Branding
Bright colors such as green, red, or blue are usually adopted by manufacturers to enhance brand recognition. Individual users as well as commercial users often have a preference for certain colors, so manufacturers usually strive to provide tools in their preferred color.
Heat Resistance & Thickness
Treatment & Coating: The coatings and colors used on carbide tools must have high heat resistance to ensure they do not degrade in harsh working conditions. Furthermore, coatings should be of sufficient thickness to ensure they withstand wear and tear.
Customization Options
Manufacturers also offer users the option to design custom tools with their own colors, logos, or patterns. This is especially common in promotional tools or tools supplied to large corporations.
The visually appealing aspect of the color of carbide tools plays an important part in several applications, which include:
Industrial & Manufacturing Settings
Even in industrial locations, the color of carbide tools is still important when one considers safety with recognition. Brightly colored tools enable one to easily and quickly identify them in large work areas, thus minimizing trip hazards and maximizing efficiency.
Tool Longevity & Aesthetic Appeal
Machining & Metalworking: In metalworking and machining industries, coated carbide tools are mostly used because they last longer than uncoated tools. In addition to this, tools with a visually appealing color also serve a marketing purpose, as users might prefer tools that look attractive.
DIY & Home Improvement
Carbide tools are coated to give them a sharp look and for practical purposes in the DIY (Do It Yourself) and home improvement industries. Users are more likely to buy tools that are bright and have a smooth finish after coating rather than those that seem rough and unrefined.
Construction & Landscaping
Carbide tools, especially those with a distinguishing bright color, make them easier to identify in construction and landscaping. This reduces the chances of losing them on a job site.
Dental & Medical Fields
Dental and medical industries use tungsten carbide instruments due to their sharpness, durability, strength, and appealing luster. These industries prefer instruments that not only function well but also have a sleek and professional appearance.
Aerospace & Electronics
Due to their density and shine, tools made from tungsten carbide are easily recognized, and that's why they are used in these fields. In precision industries like these, the quality and appearance of tools matter, which is why coated carbide tools are preferred.
Worn out of tools not only results in a great deal of wastage but may also potentially pose dangers, so it's very important to maintain their work tools. Below are some maintenance tips for maintaining the coat and color of carbide tools:
Regular Cleaning
One should clean tools after every use to remove debris, dirt, and residues that build up over time. This can be done by washing the tools with water and soap or with a special brush. Avoid using harsh chemicals that could wear away at the coatings.
Proper Storage
Keep them protected in storage by using a dedicated case or organizer for sharping tools, as exposure to damp and wet conditions can lead to corrosion over time. Furthermore, individual tool covers or padded cases preserve the integrity of their coatings and colors.
Avoiding Excessive Heat
Heat is an enemy of most coatings applied to tools, so it's important not to use them for a long time in areas of intense heat or during operations that generate much heat, as heat can degrade the coatings and may eventually lead them to lose their color or luster.
Sharpening
Shawls with tungsten carbide material are best suited to special carbide sharpeners in the market. Using other sharpeners may cause the coating to wear out, making the tools less useful.
Inspection for Wear
One has to frequently inspect the tool tip for signs of wear, chipping, or damage. If the tool is colored, one may not easily notice wear, so examining the tool closely is important.
Professional Services
For damage that is beyond DIY repair, send tools to professionals who have expertise in working with carbide tools. They will provide safe, proper sharpening without damaging the coating or tool.
A1. The various colors of carbide tools result from treatments or coatings applied to the tool. For instance, titanium nitride, a commonly applied coating, gives carbide tools a golden metallic color, while titanium diboride might give it a purple color.
A2. To maintain the visual appeal of carbide tools, one should always clean them after using them, store them properly in cases, and avoid using them in intense heat. Moreover, sharpeners intended for tungsten carbide should be used.
A3. Coated carbide tools do their job perfectly, last longer, reduce friction, and withstand wear and tear over time. Because of this, they are ideal for use in different fields requiring precise cutting.
A4. The color of the tool coat is usually integrated with the type of coating and the material underneath, which directly affects durability, friction, and wear. For instance, titanium nitride gives the tool a golden color while increasing its hardness and efficient cutting capability.
A5. Yes, tools that are coated with tungsten carbide can be sharpened at home using a specialized carbide tool sharpener. It is also recommended that professional services sharpen these tools when they become damaged or worn out to avoid destruction of the coating.