Lángkeményítés

Lángkeményítés, also known as flame hardening or flame quenching, is a localized surface hardening process used primarily on ferrous metals, particularly steel. The technique involves rapidly heating a specific area of the metal to a high temperature using an oxy-fuel flame, followed by immediate quenching with water or another cooling medium. This process induces a hard, wear-resistant martensitic microstructure in the heated zone while leaving the core of the material relatively unaffected.

The method is commonly applied to components such as gears, shafts, and bearings where only certain surfaces require increased hardness for improved durability and resistance to abrasion. Unlike case hardening or induction hardening, lángkeményítés allows for precise control over the hardened area, making it suitable for complex geometries or selective hardening of specific features. The process is often used in maintenance and repair work due to its ability to harden only the worn or damaged surfaces without altering the entire part.

The effectiveness of lángkeményítés depends on factors such as the composition of the steel, the heating temperature, quenching rate, and post-treatment care. Proper technique ensures minimal distortion and optimal hardness depth. While the method is cost-effective for localized treatments, it requires skilled operators to achieve consistent results. Common applications include agricultural machinery, automotive parts, and industrial equipment where surface hardness is critical for performance.