Abstract: A pick-style tool that includes an elongate tool body with an axially forward end and an axially rearward end, and a hard insert affixed to the tool body at the axially forward end is disclosed. The hard insert comprises a WC-cermet comprising tungsten carbide and about 5 wt. % to 27 wt. % Co—Ni—Fe-binder. The Co—Ni—Fe-binder is unique in that even when subjected to plastic deformation, the binder substantially maintains its face centered cubic (fcc) crystal structure and avoids stress and/or strain induced transformations.

Abstract: Cermets having a Co--Ni--Fe-binder are described. The Co--Ni--Fe-binder is unique in that even when subjected to plastic deformation, the binder substantially maintains its face centered cubic crystal structure and avoids stress and/or strain induced phase transformations. Stated differently, the Co--Ni--Fe-binder exhibits reduced work hardening.

Abstract: An elongate rotary tool including at least one cutting edge that is useful in the machining of workpiece materials is disclosed. The elongate rotary tool comprises a cermet comprising at least one hard component and about 0.2 wt. % to 19 wt. % Co--Ni--Fe-binder. The Co--Ni--Fe-binder is unique in that even when subjected to plastic deformation, the binder substantially maintains its face centered cubic (fcc) crystal structure and avoids stress and/or strain induced transformations.

Abstract: A cutting insert including a flank face, a rake face, and a cutting edge at the intersection of the flank and rake faces that is useful in the chip forming machining of workpiece materials is disclosed. The cutting insert comprises a cermet comprising at least one hard component and about 2 wt % to 19 wt % Co--Ni--FE-binder. The Co--Ni--FE-binder is unique in that even when subjected to plastic deformation, the binder substantially maintains its face centered cubic (fcc) crystal structure and avoids stress and/or strain induced transformations.

Abstract: A rotary tool that includes an elongate tool body and a hard insert affixed to the tool body is disclosed. The hard insert includes a WC-cermet including tungsten carbide and about 5 wt. % to 19 wt. % Co--Ni--Fe-binder. The Co--Ni--Fe-binder is unique in that even when subjected to plastic deformation, the binder substantially maintains its face centered cubic (fcc) crystal structure and avoids stress and/or strain induced transformations.