Different professions call for a variety of tools, equipment and processes to help get the job done. Without the right tools, or when your tools are old, worn or too damaged to function properly, your livelihood could be at stake. Then there are jobs that call for the use of heavy machinery and equipment. These machines are not cheap to replace but, when maintained, can be repaired or otherwise brought back to prime working condition.
If you own metal machinery, then you should know a little bit about a service you are likely to need at some point: induction hardening. Here is what you need to know about induction hardening in Gastonia, NC.
What is induction hardening?
Induction hardening is a form of heat treatment. The process heats a metal part by induction, followed by quenching. Once quenched, the metal goes through a transformation that will increase the hardness of the metal part. This happens because a hardened outer surface is created around the part, while the core microstructure is not affected. Induction hardening increases the metal part’s or component’s resistance to wear and increases its usable life.
The process of induction hardening is typically focused on a localized area of a surface, and it’s a popular and sought-after service due to the fact that it’s a great, more affordable option than replacing a component or the entire machine. Additionally, metal that has undergone induction hardening will be stronger that it was before.
Common metals for induction hardening
Induction hardening is used on metals like steel (stainless, alloy, carbon), cast iron, malleable iron, ductile iron and other alloy metal parts and components. Some examples of metal items that benefit from induction hardening include engine components, powertrain components, suspension components, axles, stampings, shafts, spindles and gears.
Most parts that need induction hardening are regularly subjected to heavy use and loading. With this process, the surfaces of such parts are hardened by induction to boost the parts’ ability to handle normal use.
Understanding the process
Metal parts in need of induction hardening are placed inside a copper coil. Then, an alternating current is applied to the coil in order to start the heating process, which is done by inducing an alternating magnetic field. The temperature must rise on the outer surface of the metal part until it is within or at the transformation range. This range will vary depending on the type of metal being heated. The moment the part is in the right temperature range, the metal is quickly cooled down (quenched).
Who can you turn to when your metal machines need service, repairs or enhancing? A skilled metallurgist! At J.F. Heat Treating Inc., we offer a wide range of metal work options and services to keep your machines and equipment running smoothly and efficiently. If you would like more information about induction hardening in Gastonia, NC, want to inquire about another type of service or need to schedule a service appointment, then pick up the phone and call us today!