Polycrystalline superabrasive composite tools and methods of forming the same

Abstract

A polycrystalline superabrasive composite tool can be produced using high pressure high temperature processes allowing for increased thermal resistance, wear resistance and toughness of abrasive tools, and additionally allowing for increased effective thickness of abrasive tools. A polycrystalline superabrasive compact can include a support substrate and a superabrasive polycrystalline layer having a diffusion bridge embedded therein that includes a carbide former. Additionally, a working layer can be attached adjacent to the superabrasive polycrystalline layer and opposite the support substrate to form a drill bit sandwich segment. The diffusion bridge matrix of the present invention allows for a new welding phase at each interface between the superabrasive polycrystalline layer and support substrate and between the polycrystalline layer and the metal working layer, thus eliminating delamination failure at the interfaces. The superabrasive polycrystalline layer can include superabrasive particles of varying particle sizes such that the final composite tool is tailored for specific abrading characteristics. The polycrystalline superabrasive composite tools can be incorporated for use in machining, drilling, grinding, cutting, polishing and similar abrasive applications.