Abstract
This study determined the optimal sintering parameters for tungsten carbide–cobalt cutting inserts produced by spark plasma sintering (SPS) to achieve a balanced combination of structural and mechanical properties for cutting tool applications. Sintering experiments were conducted using a GeniCore U-FAST GC vacuum SPS system. Sintering experiments were conducted using a GeniCore U-FAST GC vacuum SPS unit. A factorial design was applied, varying sintering temperature (1250–1500 °C), applied force (0.4–0.6 kN), dwell time (5–10 min), and pulse current (4000–4800 A). The results indicate that, although all samples exhibited similar phase compositions, pronounced differences in substructural characteristics were observed. Crystallite sizes ranged from 158 to 509 Å, while lattice microstrain varied from 0.17% to 0.645%, correlating with microhardness values between 1875 and 1912 HV. An optimal balance between hardness and plasticity, without evidence of embrittlement, was achieved at a sintering temperature of 1450 °C and a pulse current of 4500 A.