Machine Shop

• Lathes, die stamps, drills and many other machine tools all use carbide bits to shape metal. The carbide alloys are stronger than steel and are able to shed heat at a great rate. This enables faster rates of operation and the ability to work with harder metals. From a business perspective, carbide tools give greater uptime and versatility than normal steel tools.
  
  

Mining

• Mining machines use cemented carbide button bits. The button bits slot into the head of the boring machine. The individual carbide tips grate against the rock face and shuck off rock chips. Carbide alloys last longer then steel alloys, are more corrosion resistant and withstand greater amounts of heat. Some mining operations involve spraying water to keep down dust and cool off the drill tips. Steel tips rust fast in this environment, so carbide tips are used when possible.
  
  

Emergency Services

• Fire and rescue serves use carbide cutting tools to help free trapped individuals. Carbide tipped saws and drills are able to cut faster than steel tipped tools. This enables emergency services to rescue people faster and expose the rescue crews to less danger. Carbide alloys are also lighter than steel ones, which helps lessen the load rescue personnel have to carry.
  
  

Fine Arts

• Carbide cutting tools also have a number of advantages in fine arts. Carbide blades are able to cut with less effort, which means there is less risk of inadvertent cuts. In addition, the greater resistance to heat allows you to use the tool on harder materials such as stone or gems. The strength of the carbide alloys also allow for smaller tools for finely detailed work.