Densalloy is similar to machining gray cast iron because the material is highly abrasive with the chips and discontinuous. Carbide tools are used for milling, turning and drilling; however, cobalt is recommended for tapping. The use of coolant is suggested for roughing but is not required for finish cutting. Cutting speeds should be in the range of 100 to 300 SFM, and feeds should be set to maintain approximately .006" to .010" chip load. Depth of cuts for roughing can be as much as 1/8" and for finishing as much as .030".

Joining: Densalloy can be joined to itself and other materials using brazing and conventional mechanical methods. Brazing is most effectively done using nickel or copper in a reducing atmosphere. Densalloy can also be very effectively joined to itself using a sinter bond technique. Sinter bonding essentially causes diffusion of material across the joint interface resulting in an almost indiscernible joint in the finished part.

Finishes - Corrosion Resistance: Although Densalloy possesses good corrosion resistance, slight corrosion will occur in high humidity atmospheres. Various finishes can be applied to improve its corrosion resistance. This includes cadmium and nickel plating as well as acrylic and epoxy paints.

Information provided by ATI Tungsten Materials, a business unit of Allegheny Technologies Incorporated (ATI).

ATI completed the sale of its Tungsten Materials Business to Kennametal Inc. on November 4, 2013.