Material behavior of cemented carbide tools Evaluate the statement: “Cemented carbide cutting tools are generally poor in shear (low shear strength) compared with their compressive strength.”

Introduction / Context:
Cemented carbides (e.g., WC-Co) are widely used for high-speed machining due to their hot hardness and wear resistance. However, their mechanical behavior is anisotropic: very strong in compression but relatively weak in tension and shear.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Typical tungsten carbide-cobalt grades used as inserts.
• Room to elevated temperatures relevant to machining.

Concept / Approach:
Carbides are brittle materials with high compressive strength but lower tensile and shear strengths. Cutting geometries and edge preparations are chosen to load the tool primarily in compression and minimize tensile/shear stresses at the cutting edge.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Recognize property set: compressive strength >> tensile/shear strength.Link to practice: use of negative rake or honed edges to place the edge in compression.Conclusion: the statement is correct.

Verification / Alternative check:
Materials data sheets show compressive strength values several times higher than tensile/shear for cemented carbides.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Behavior is inherent to the material, not only at high speeds or with a specific rake.

Common Pitfalls:
Treating carbide like HSS (which is tougher) and using sharp, weak edges in interrupted cuts leading to chipping.

Final Answer:
Yes