Presintering of TiCN-TiC-WC-Cr 3 C 2 -Ni cermets under N 2 -H 2 atmospheres

C/N ratios in TiCN-TiC-WC-Cr3C2-Ni cermets can be intentionally modified by changing the composition of the presintering atmosphere. This affects not only the sinterability but also the final microstructure of these materials. Melting occurs at lower temperatures as the nitrogen content of the presintering atmosphere rises. However, the final densities are lower due to the precipitation of free carbon. Grain growth of the carbonitride phase is accelerated in samples presintered in N2 due to the activation of solution reprecipitation kinetics. Finally, the precipitation of the Cr-rich M7C3 carbide can also be controlled by the appropriate selection of the presintering atmosphere up to 7.8 wt.% Cr contents. © 2016 Elsevier Ltd