Hard alloys

Metallic materials that are based on iron (Fe), nickel (Ni) or cobalt (Co) and have a hard phase content of up to 50% by volume are known as hard alloys. These materials offer an optimum solution for coating highly stressed components and surfaces. Their exceptional properties are used in a wide range of areas such as metalworking, mining, the oil and gas industry, cutting technology and machining technology.

Iron-based hard alloys

Our extensive experience enables us to offer over 50 different iron-based hard alloys. From low-alloy to high-alloy grades, our portfolio covers a wide range of applications. We will be happy to advise you on the selection of the optimum material for your specific application.

Nickel-based hard alloys

Our self-flowing nickel-boron-silicon alloys offer a wide melting range and are ideal for thermal spraying or build-up welding. The combination of nickel and boron leads to the formation of hard borides during processing, which significantly increases the wear resistance of the alloys. Our nickel-chromium-boron-silicon alloys also offer high corrosion and oxidation resistance.

Cobalt-based hard alloys

Our cobalt-based alloys impress with their excellent high-temperature strength and oxidation resistance, coupled with high wear resistance. They are particularly suitable for high-temperature applications and, depending on the alloy composition, also offer outstanding toughness and corrosion properties.

Powder mixtures for individual requirements

In addition to "pure" hard alloys, we also offer powder mixtures for build-up welding and thermal spraying. One example of this is our SuperDur WC-P material, which contains up to 60% by weight of fused tungsten carbide (WSC). This addition results in exceptional resistance to coarse mineral wear.

Overall, hard alloys are of great importance in modern industries due to their unique properties and wide range of applications. Their ability to withstand high loads while maintaining sharpness, stability and durability makes them indispensable materials in demanding environments.

Swiss Steel Group for a sustainable future.

Learn more

Our Green Steel is based on the circular economy, on energy sources with low CO2 content and is produced using the electric steel process.

  • ~77% electricity from low carbon sources
  • ~83% lower CO2 footprint
  • ~93% recycled scrap as raw material

Advantages and applications of hard alloys

The outstanding properties of hard alloys are based on the combination of carbides with a metal matrix. The carbides are responsible for the hardness and wear resistance, while the metal matrix provides additional properties such as corrosion resistance. This synergy enables hard alloys to withstand high loads without losing sharpness or stability. Hard alloys are produced in various forms, including powder. This powder can be applied to substrate surfaces using build-up welding or spraying processes. This makes it possible to optimise tool surfaces specifically and locally in order to achieve maximum service life.

The advantages of hard alloys are impressive: they are extremely durable, resistant to wear and able to work even under demanding conditions. The longer service life and maintenance-free nature of components lead to improved productivity and cost efficiency. Hard alloys are indispensable in various industries due to their exceptional hardness, wear resistance and toughness. They are used in a range of applications from tools and wear parts to complex components operating in challenging environments.

Product portfolio for every application

We share our enthusiasm for convincing and successful products with our customers and partners.

Additive Manufacturing

Zahnraeder 3d druckverfahren metallpulver

Medical technology

Rostfreie chirurgische instrumente im operationssaal

Oil, Gas & Mining

Offshore oelplattform

Toolmaking

Praezisionsgefertigte werkzeugstahlform werkzeugbau

Newscenter

Sustainability  |  09/01/2026

Swiss Steel Group once again secures top “A” score in CDP rating

Swiss Steel Group has been awarded the highest rating, “A,” in CDP’s annual sustainability assessment for climate change for the second consecutive year. This distinction, conferred by the internationally recognized non-profit organization CDP, underscores the Group’s continued commitment to climate action and sustainable business practices. This achievement reinforces Swiss Steel Group’s position as a leader in corporate transparency and action on climate change, standing out from nearly 22,100 companies assessed.

Read more

Products  |  15/12/2025

Swiss Steel Group publishes new white paper on efficiency in machining

What makes steel truly machinable? Cutting speed, tool life, and process stability determine the cost-effectiveness of machining. Our new white paper "Machinability" shows how machinability-optimized special steels can measurably improve productivity, quality, and sustainability.

Read more

Products  |  22/10/2025

Swiss Steel Group launches "Machinability – Keep the World Turning" campaign

Materials expertise for precision, process stability and energy efficiency in machining

With its "Machinability – Keep the World Turning" campaign, Swiss Steel Group is launching an international initiative to promote competence and innovation in machining. The campaign celebrates the partnership between Swiss Steel Group and the machinists who turn steel into progress – highlighting how material expertise, precision and collaboration keep the world moving. The campaign will kick off on 21 and 22 October 2025 at the Ugitech site in Ugine (France) with presentations and discussions on current developments in the machining of stainless steels and engineering steels.

Read more

Read more

Can we help you in any way?

Then contact us, we look forward to receiving your enquiry.

Contact

Our team of experts looks forward to hearing from you, discussing your goals and planning the path to success together.
Results are loading