2-362-267 - Worldwide Photography/Heritage-Images

Tungsten carbide furnace being loaded, Edgar Allen Steel Co, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, 1962. Tungsten carbide is a chemical compound containing equal parts of tungsten and carbon atoms. In its basic form it consists of a fine grey powder, which can be formed and pressed into shapes. Probably most recognisable and well known as the hard tips on masonry bits, it is four times harder than steel.