Abstract: The disclosure relates generally to tungsten carbide particles, and more particularly to textured spheroidal tungsten carbides, composites formed thereof, and methods of applying the composites. In one aspect, a powder blend comprises fused tungsten carbide particles. The fused tungsten carbide particles have a spheroidal or substantially spherical shape having ratio of a first length along a major axis to second length along a minor axis that is 1.20 or lower. The fused tungsten carbide particles have a surface that is textured to have a grain boundary area fraction greater than 5.0%.

Abstract: A drill bit is disclosed. The drill bit has an axis, and a barrel, and a cutting member fixed to the barrel. The barrel is arranged to engage a drill shaft for driving the drill bit around the axis. The barrel and the cutting member are adjacently located on the axis. The drill bit has an aperture centered on the axis, the aperture passing completely through both the cutting member and barrel.

Abstract: A mining pick is disclosed. The pick has a body, at least part of the body being formed of a metal matrix composite comprising particles dispersed in a metal, a cutting element mounted to body, and a shank extending from the body. The at least part of the body formed of the metal matrix composite is configured to provide a barrier during an excavation operation.

Abstract: A drill bit is disclosed. The drill bit has an axis, and a barrel, and a cutting member fixed to the barrel. The barrel is arranged to engage a drill shaft for driving the drill bit around the axis. The barrel and the cutting member are adjacently located on the axis. The drill bit has an aperture centered on the axis, the aperture passing completely through both the cutting member and barrel.