Induction Hardening

Induction Hardening involves the rapid heating and quenching of metals using high frequency electrical fields. Likewise with flame hardening, the technique prolong the life of your machinery.

As a result you will save on downtime and it facilitates the use of smaller sections for any given load. Furthermore Induction Hardening prolongs the component life and increases strength.

What is it used for?

This process is applied to selected metal surfaces of carbon and alloy steels, cast and ductile irons and certain stainless steels.

Typical components treated include:

Shafts or Pins

Most Carbon Containing Steels

Martensitic Stainless Steels

Bevel, Helical and Spur Gears

The Process

Induction heating is a non contact heating process which uses the principle of electromagnetic induction to produce heat inside the surface layer of a work-piece. Placing a conductive material into a strong alternating magnetic field, electric current can be made to flow in the material thereby creating heat due to the I2R losses in the material.

In magnetic materials, further heat is generated below the curie point due to hysteresis losses. The current generated flows predominantly in the surface layer, the depth of this layer being dictated by the frequency of the alternating field, the surface power density, the permeability of the material, the heat time and the diameter of the bar or material thickness.

By quenching this heated layer in water, oil, or a polymer based quench, the surface layer is altered to form a martensitic structure which is harder than the base metal.

Increased Lifespan

Increased Hardness

Reduced Downtime

Automated Machines Ensure Consistency

Would you like more information?

Our engineers are always happy to discuss your specific requirements.