Cobalt (Co)
Metal used as a binder in carbide. About 70% of the world's reserves are concentrated in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Cobalt is the metallic binder that provides toughness to carbide. Without cobalt, WC would be too brittle to withstand mechanical shock in interrupted cutting.
Geopolitical Risk
Extreme geographical concentration and labor issues in the DRC mining chain have made cobalt an ESG audit item in all industries that consume it — including cutting tool carbide.
Real Reduction, Not Just Declared
The only honest way to reduce cobalt consumption in a machining factory is to change tool architecture. Hanna HR® delivers this in practice: up to −85% carbide consumed per part produced.