How to Identify Tungsten Carbide Scrap (Simple Tests Anyone Can Do)
Tungsten carbide scrap can be identified by its extreme weight, non-magnetic nature, very short or no sparks during grinding, and resistance to scratching by steel.
The most reliable identification uses a combination of weight test + spark test + scratch test.
You can identify tungsten carbide scrap by checking:
✔ Weight (very heavy for size)
✔ Magnet reaction (none or very weak)
✔ Spark pattern (short or no sparks)
✔ Hardness (scratches steel, not vice versa)
What Is Tungsten Carbide Scrap?
Tungsten carbide scrap is leftover or worn industrial material made from tungsten and carbon, usually bonded with cobalt, and used in high-wear applications.
🔹 Common sources include:
▪ CNC carbide inserts
▪ End mills and drills
▪ Burrs and rods
▪ Mining and cutting tools
Why Tungsten Carbide Is Often Misidentified
Many people confuse tungsten carbide with:
➤ High Speed Steel (HSS)
➤ Hardened tool steel
➤ Stainless steel
🔴 Why confusion happens:
- Similar color and finish
- Used in the same machines
- Both feel hard to touch
➡️ But their weight, spark behavior, and magnet response differ clearly.
🧲 Magnet Test for Tungsten Carbide
Is tungsten carbide magnetic?
❌ No, tungsten carbide is generally non-magnetic, though it may show very weak attraction due to cobalt content.
✔ How to perform the magnet test:
① Use a strong magnet
② Touch it to the scrap
③ Observe reaction
✔ Results:
- Strong attraction → ❌ Not carbide
- No / very weak attraction → ✅ Possible carbide
⚠️ Important: Never rely on magnet test alone.
🔥 Spark Test – Tungsten Carbide vs Steel
✔ How to do it:
▪ Touch scrap lightly to a grinder
▪ Observe spark length and color
✔ Spark comparison:
- Steel: Long, bright, branching sparks
- HSS: Moderate sparks
- Tungsten carbide: Very short, dull sparks or almost none
📌 Little to no sparks = strong carbide indicator
🧱 Scratch Test for Tungsten Carbide Scrap
Tungsten carbide is harder than steel.
✔ Scratch test steps:
① Use hardened steel or file
② Try scratching carbide surface
✔ Result interpretation:
Steel scratches → ❌ Not carbide
No scratch at all → ✅ Carbide likely
✔ Best used with spark test for confirmation
⚖️ Weight & Density Test
Tungsten carbide is significantly heavier than steel of the same size.
✔ Simple check:
- Hold two same-size tools
- Carbide feels 30–50% heavier
📍 This test is extremely effective for scrap sellers.
🔶 How to Identify Tungsten Carbide Inserts
✔ Visual signs:
▪ Small geometric shapes (triangle, square, round)
▪ Often gold, black, or bronze coated
▪ Heavy despite small size
⚠️ Coating does NOT affect scrap value
🔧 How to Identify Tungsten Carbide Tools
✔ Common carbide tools:
➤ End mills
➤ Burrs
➤ Drills
➤ Solid rods
✔ Identification signs:
▪ Extremely sharp edges
▪ Breaks instead of bending
▪ Heavy solid feel
🆚 Tungsten Carbide vs HSS Scrap
| Feature | Tungsten Carbide | HSS |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | Very heavy | Medium |
| Magnet | Weak / none | Strong |
| Spark | Very short | Moderate |
| Brittleness | High | Low |
| Scrap value | High | Lower |
📌 Most mispricing happens here
🚫 Common Mistakes to Avoid
✖ Using magnet test only
✖ Assuming all heavy metal is carbide
✖ Mixing carbide with steel scrap
✖ Ignoring spark test
✖ Selling without confirmation
💰 Why Correct Identification Increases Scrap Price
Correct identification helps you:
✔ Sell as pure carbide scrap
✔ Avoid downgrade pricing
✔ Build buyer trust
✔ Maximize per-kg value
📈 Misidentified scrap always sells cheaper.
❓ FAQs
Q: Is tungsten carbide heavier than steel?
✔ Yes, significantly heavier.
Q: Can tungsten carbide rust?
❌ No, it does not rust like steel.
Q: Does carbide produce sparks?
✔ Very few or none.
Q: Can carbide be mistaken for steel?
✔ Yes, without proper testing.
Not sure if your scrap is tungsten carbide?
✔ Send photos
✔ Get free identification
✔ Avoid underpricing
➡️ Confirm before selling.