Air quenching is an important part of the metal manufacturing process, yet not everyone is familiar with this term. If you need to quench and temper in Gastonia, NC, it’s important to learn about this method.
Following is a quick overview of air quenching. If you have additional questions, don’t hesitate to contact the metal experts at J.F. Heat Treating Inc.
What is air quenching?
Air quenching is the process of cooling metal using air or inert gas. This rapid cooling process occurs after metal has been heated, to attain the desired properties. The air or gas is forced over the metal to cool down the material.
Are there other quenching methods?
During the heating process, one of two methods is typically used to quench the metal. In addition to air quenching, fluid quenching is an effective way to cool metal. For this method, chemicals or other liquids such as brine, oil or water are used to cool the material. The metal is placed in a cooling bath of the substance, or the substance is forced over the metal to cool it. This method is also referred to as oil quenching.
Why is air quenching important?
Quenching and tempering in Gastonia, NC are essential to alter the qualities of metal. This is necessary to strengthen and harden metals to make them durable enough for heavy-duty applications. The tempering and quenching process changes the basic structure of the metal so that it becomes resistant and reliable.
When is air quenching used?
Air quenching is used in a variety of applications. Many manufacturing and industrial situations call for air quenching. Aluminum and other alloys often undergo air quenching to make the metal appropriate for specific designs. The construction industry relies on this method frequently to create the materials needed for specific projects.
Are there any advantages to air quenching?
Yes. Using this method gives technicians the ability to harden materials at different rates. This is often necessary, since various applications require different levels of hardness for the metals used. Additionally, air quenching allows technicians to create strong, durable metals. Without these materials, manufacturers would be unable to build many of the products and structures that surround us every day.
Who is qualified to complete air quenching?
Air quenching and fluid quenching both require proper knowledge of metal properties, cooling processes and metal manufacturing. Only trained technicians should attempt these methods. With the right knowledge and skill, these trained technicians can produce the appropriate hardness to transform the metal into the desired product.
Learn more
If you have additional questions about how to quench and temper in Gastonia, NC, contact the team at J.F. Heat Treating Inc. Family owned and operated, we’ve been the area’s go-to source for metal heat treating services since 1980. We specialize in the hardening and carbonizing of various steel products in a metallurgical lab. Our heat treating services include annealing, aging, quenching and tempering to soften, harden, stress relieve, remove contaminants or provide other material characteristics to parts and components. It is our privilege to work with the manufacturing and fabrication industries to deliver the best products available.