Polycrystalline diamond constructions having improved thermal stability

摘要

A method of forming a thermally stable cutting element involves forming a PCD body 32 of interconnected diamond particles with a catalyst material disposed in the interstitial spaces interposed between the diamond particles. The diamond particles form at least 85% by volumet of the body 32. Substantially all the catalyst material is removed from the body 32 and the body 32 is attached to a carbide substrate by sintering. The diamond particles have an average grain size of less than 20 microns.