Induktiosammutujen

Induktiosammutujen, also known as induction quenching, is a heat treatment process used to harden steel. It involves rapidly heating the surface of a steel component to a specific temperature using electromagnetic induction, followed by immediate cooling, typically with a liquid quenchant. The rapid heating causes the surface layer of the steel to reach its critical temperature, where its microstructure transforms into austenite. Upon rapid cooling, this austenite structure rapidly transforms into martensite, a very hard and brittle phase.

The induction quenching process is highly localized and controllable. The depth of hardening can be precisely managed by adjusting factors such as the frequency of the induction coil, the power applied, the heating time, and the speed of the quenching process. This allows for selective hardening of specific areas of a component, leaving other sections softer and tougher. This selective hardening is advantageous for applications where both wear resistance on the surface and toughness in the core are required.

The benefits of induction quenching include its speed, efficiency, and ability to produce a hard surface with a tough core. It can be used on a variety of steel types, including carbon steels and alloy steels. Applications are widespread and include hardening gears, shafts, crankshafts, camshafts, cutting tools, and automotive components. The process is often automated, allowing for high production rates. However, it requires specialized equipment and careful control to avoid surface decarburization or cracking.