Introduction: What Is Nickel-Based WC Powder?
Nickel-based WC (Tungsten Carbide) powder is a composite material widely used in industries requiring extreme hardness, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance. This powder blends the toughness of nickel with the superior hardness of tungsten carbide, making it ideal for various additive manufacturing and thermal spray processes.
In the B2B landscape, nickel-based WC powder plays a critical role in sectors such as:
- Aerospace
- Oil and gas
- Mining and construction
- Automotive
- Marine engineering
- 3D printing component manufacturing
These powders are especially attractive to wholesale buyers and industrial suppliers looking for high-performance coatings and components that extend lifecycle and reduce downtime.
Key Properties of Nickel-Based WC Powder:
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Hardness | Up to 1400 HV |
| Corrosion Resistance | Excellent in acidic and marine environments |
| Wear Resistance | Outstanding in abrasive and erosive conditions |
| High Temperature Stability | Maintains strength and bonding at elevated temperatures |
| Bonding Characteristics | Excellent metallurgical bonding with substrates |
Nickel is often used as the matrix or binder in these powders, while tungsten carbide offers the wear-resistant phase. This combination leads to enhanced adhesion, toughness, and durability.
Industrial Applications of Nickel-Based WC Powder
Nickel-based WC powders are used in a wide array of industrial processes, particularly where components are exposed to harsh environments. Below are some of the most common applications:
1. Thermal Spray Coatings
Thermal spraying using nickel WC powder is a preferred method for applying protective coatings on parts exposed to high wear and corrosion, including:
- Hydraulic rods
- Pump shafts
- Turbine blades
- Drill bits and valves
2. Additive Manufacturing (3D Printing)
In powder bed fusion and directed energy deposition, nickel-based WC powder is used to print parts with complex geometries and excellent surface properties. This is especially valuable in:
- Aerospace components
- High-performance engine parts
- Customized industrial tools
Shanghai Truer Technology Co., Ltd., a leader in additive manufacturing, offers premium-grade nickel alloy powders specifically designed for 3D printing applications.
3. Hardfacing and Wear Plates
Hardfacing with nickel WC powder is used to rebuild and reinforce the surfaces of worn tools and equipment. This application is vital in:
- Mining and drilling operations
- Cement and aggregate plants
- Agricultural machinery
4. Chemical and Marine Industries
Nickel-based WC coatings provide resistance against corrosive chemicals and saltwater environments, making them suitable for:
- Heat exchangers
- Marine propellers
- Desalination pumps
Types of Nickel-Based WC Powders
Nickel-based WC powders come in various compositions and sizes, each tailored for specific applications. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for B2B buyers and procurement managers.
Common Product Variants:
| Grade Name | WC Content (%) | Nickel Content (%) | Application Area |
|---|---|---|---|
| WC-Ni 88/12 | 88 | 12 | Thermal spraying, wear coatings |
| WC-Ni 83/17 | 83 | 17 | Additive manufacturing, hardfacing |
| Agglomerated WC-Ni | Variable | Variable | Plasma and HVOF spraying |
| Spherical WC-Ni | Customized | Customized | 3D printing, precision components |
Particle Size Distribution:
| Powder Type | Size Range (µm) | Best Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Fine Powder | 15-45 µm | Selective laser melting, binder jet printing |
| Medium Powder | 45-106 µm | Thermal spray coatings, DED 3D printing |
| Coarse Powder | 106-250 µm | PTA welding, hardfacing, bulk surfacing |
Morphology and Flowability
- Spherical powders: Ideal for 3D printing due to excellent flow characteristics.
- Agglomerated/sintered powders: Common in thermal spraying processes.
Shanghai Truer’s powder manufacturing capabilities include Plasma Rotating Electrode Process (PREP) and Selective Electron Beam Melting (SEBM) technologies. These advanced methods ensure high-quality, spherical powders with excellent purity and flowability, perfect for industrial applications. Learn more about their product offerings here.
Top Global Suppliers of Nickel-Based WC Powder
The demand for nickel-based WC powder is growing across sectors like aerospace, oil & gas, and additive manufacturing. As such, identifying reliable suppliers is critical for B2B procurement teams, wholesalers, and distributors who demand consistency, performance, and support.
Here are five of the most reputable global suppliers of nickel-based WC powders:
| Supplier | Region | Key Offerings | Specialization Area |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shanghai Truer Technology Co., Ltd. | China | Spherical WC-Ni powders, PREP & SEBM equipment | 3D printing solutions, custom powders |
| HC Starck Tungsten Powders | Germany | WC-Ni thermal spray powders | Aerospace, automotive |
| Oerlikon Metco | Switzerland/USA | Agglomerated WC-Ni powders | Thermal spray coatings |
| Hoganas AB | Sweden | Binder-enhanced WC powders | Hardfacing, wear resistance |
| Kennametal Inc. | USA | Refractory and wear-resistant powders | Tooling, mining, and construction sectors |
Why Shanghai Truer Stands Out
Shanghai Truer Technology Co., Ltd. is not only a manufacturer of high-quality spherical metal powders but also a pioneer in developing the full ecosystem for additive manufacturing.
Unique Selling Points:
- Vertical Integration: From powder production to 3D printing solutions, Truer offers a one-stop solution for B2B buyers.
- Custom Engineering: Powder compositions can be adjusted to meet specific client needs.
- Advanced Manufacturing: Utilizes SEBM and PREP methods to ensure ultra-fine microstructure and high purity.
- Strong R&D: Collaborates with top research institutions through its Joint Innovation Center.
Truer’s commitment to quality and innovation makes it a preferred choice for enterprises and procurement officers seeking consistent, high-performance powder for industrial use.
Why More Buyers Are Choosing Alternative Sources Like China
As global supply chains diversify, many B2B buyers and industrial manufacturers are turning to alternative suppliers—especially in China—for sourcing nickel-based WC powders. Here’s why:
1. Cost Efficiency
Chinese manufacturers often provide cost-effective solutions without compromising on quality, offering competitive pricing for:
- Bulk orders
- Custom formulations
- Long-term supply contracts
2. Technological Advancement
Companies like Shanghai Truer have invested heavily in next-generation powder production technologies such as:
- Plasma Rotating Electrode Process (PREP)
- Selective Electron Beam Melting (SEBM)
These methods produce spherical powders with high flowability and purity—ideal for 3D printing and thermal spray applications.
3. Shorter Lead Times
Regional sourcing from Asia, especially for businesses operating in APAC, reduces shipping times and offers more flexible logistics.
| Benefit | Traditional Suppliers | Chinese Manufacturers |
|---|---|---|
| Cost per kg (avg) | High | Lower |
| Customization Options | Limited | High |
| Lead Time | 4-6 weeks | 2-3 weeks |
| MOQ Flexibility | Medium | High |
4. Government Support and Infrastructure
China’s strong additive manufacturing ecosystem and government-backed innovation platforms further enhance the reliability of suppliers like Shanghai Truer.
Explore how Truer’s innovation-driven approach benefits wholesale buyers and industrial users by visiting their About Us page.
Why Choose Shanghai Truer as Your Supplier
Shanghai Truer Technology Co., Ltd. has emerged as a trusted partner for B2B buyers looking to source nickel-based WC powder in bulk. Here’s what makes them a standout choice:
1. Industry-Leading Expertise
- Established in 2009, with a dedicated additive manufacturing division launched in 2019.
- Offers both powder production equipment and high-grade powders, enabling vertical integration.
2. Full-Service Capabilities
From R&D to finished product delivery, Truer supports the entire product lifecycle:
- Powder customization
- Quality testing & certification
- Equipment installation & training
- Technical support for OEMs, distributors, and contract manufacturers
3. Diverse Product Range
Truer offers various grades of spherical metal powders including:
- Nickel-based WC powders
- Titanium alloys (TiNi, TiAl, TiNbZr)
- CoCrMo and other biomedical-grade alloys
View the full product catalog to explore Truer’s comprehensive material offerings.
4. Quality Assurance and Innovation
- Backed by top lab innovation platforms
- Operates a Joint Innovation Center for Metal 3D Printing
- Collaborates with renowned academic institutions and expert engineers
5. Global Reach and Logistics
With international clients across aerospace, medical, and industrial sectors, Truer ensures:
- Fast shipping and export compliance
- Scalable manufacturing for large orders
- Multilingual support for global partners
📌 Get in touch with Truer’s sales and engineering team for a custom quote or technical consultation via their Contact Us page.
How to Order Wholesale Nickel-Based WC Powder from Shanghai Truer
For B2B buyers, procurement officers, and distributors, a streamlined ordering process is critical when sourcing high-performance materials like nickel-based WC powder. Shanghai Truer Technology Co., Ltd. offers a seamless, flexible, and customer-focused wholesale ordering experience.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to ordering from Truer:
Step 1: Product Selection
Start by browsing Truer’s full range of metal powders on their product page. Choose from:
- Nickel-based WC powders (available in various particle sizes and compositions)
- Titanium alloys (TiAl, TiNi, TiNbZr)
- CoCrMo and other specialty powders
If you require a custom blend or specific particle size, Truer’s engineering team can tailor a formulation to meet your application needs.
Step 2: Submit Inquiry or Request for Quote (RFQ)
You can contact Truer directly through their Contact Us page to:
- Request a bulk pricing quotation
- Provide technical specifications
- Submit a material certification request (e.g., ISO, ASTM)
In your inquiry, include:
- Desired powder type and grade
- Quantity (in kg or tons)
- Particle size range
- Preferred packaging (sealed drums, vacuum bags, etc.)
- Destination country and shipping method
Step 3: Sample Testing (Optional)
For large or recurring orders, Shanghai Truer can send out sample batches for:
- Flowability testing
- Sinterability
- Printability (for additive manufacturing buyers)
- Corrosion and wear resistance validation
This ensures the powder meets your performance standards before full-scale procurement.
Step 4: Order Confirmation & Payment
Once you approve the technical specifications and quotation:
- Truer will issue a formal proforma invoice (PI)
- Flexible payment options are available (T/T, L/C, etc.)
- MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity) flexibility is provided for new buyers and pilot orders
Step 5: Production & Quality Inspection
Truer uses advanced equipment like SEBM and PREP to produce high-purity, spherical powders. Every batch is subject to:
- Chemical composition analysis
- Particle size distribution verification
- Morphology inspection (SEM)
- Flow rate and apparent density testing
Step 6: Packaging & Shipping
Powders are securely packed in:
- Anti-static, vacuum-sealed foil bags
- Stainless steel drums (for bulk orders)
- Moisture-protected packaging for overseas shipping
Shipping options:
- Air freight (for urgent orders)
- Sea freight (cost-effective for bulk supply)
- EXW, FOB, CIF, and DDP terms available
Step 7: After-Sales Support
Truer provides:
- Technical support for powder integration into your process
- Re-ordering assistance and inventory planning
- Quality documentation and batch traceability
FAQs: Common Questions About Buying Nickel-Based WC Powder
Q1: What is the typical MOQ for wholesale orders?
A: Shanghai Truer offers flexible MOQs starting from 10kg for new customers or sampling. For long-term contracts, bulk orders are available in tons.
Q2: Can I order a custom composition or particle size?
A: Yes. Truer specializes in custom formulations. You can specify the WC/Ni ratio, particle morphology (spherical or agglomerated), and PSD (e.g., 15-45μm for 3D printing or 45-106μm for thermal spraying).
Q3: Are your powders certified?
A: All powders come with a full set of certifications including:
- Elemental composition (ICP, XRF)
- Particle analysis (Laser Diffraction)
- ISO, ASTM, and GB compliance as required
Q4: Do you provide support for additive manufacturing applications?
A: Absolutely. Truer offers both powders and powder-making equipment for additive manufacturing. Their 3D printing powder solutions are optimized for PBF, DED, and SLM systems.
Q5: What industries commonly use your WC-Ni powders?
A: Clients span across:
- Aerospace
- Marine and offshore
- Mining and drilling
- Automotive and tooling
- Energy and power generation
Q6: How long does it take to receive my order?
A: Typical lead times:
| Order Size | Lead Time |
|---|---|
| Sample Orders | 3–7 business days |
| Small Wholesale | 7–15 business days |
| Bulk Orders | 15–30 business days |
Q7: How do I get technical support?
A: Truer’s expert team is available through their Contact page for:
- Material selection assistance
- Process compatibility
- Troubleshooting and optimization
For more technical insights, industry trends, and powder innovations, don’t forget to check out Truer’s official blog.
Ready to elevate your production capabilities with premium nickel-based WC powders? Reach out to Shanghai Truer Technology today for a custom quotation or sample batch.
