A Simple Method of Relating Stereological Parameters Modelling Hard Metal Structures

摘要

The hard phase computer simulation of the structure of WC-based hard metal is not common in scientific literature. This phase is formed by carbide grains embedded in a metallic matrix. In the equilibrium state, the grain has a equilateral prismatic form with beveled edges. It is nevertheless possible to model Stereological aspects of this phase using a Monte Carlo simulation assuming a prism structure without beveled edges. From the grain's height/width ratio, physical parameters such as grain area and intercept lengths can be calculated. The goal of this work is to present a simple method to obtain this ratio for metallographic samples. One of the results is to establish a relationship between the intercept length and the true size of the grain, which facilitates a better understand of this material's structure.