Vacuumafgasning

Vacuumafgasning, also known as vacuum degassing, is a process used primarily in the production of steel and other metals to remove dissolved gases and impurities. This process is crucial for enhancing the quality and performance of the final metal product. The term "vacuumafgasning" is derived from Swedish, where "vacuum" refers to the low-pressure environment and "afgasning" means degassing.

During vacuumafgasning, molten metal is subjected to a vacuum, which lowers the pressure and allows dissolved gases such as hydrogen, nitrogen, and oxygen to escape. These gases can negatively affect the mechanical properties of the metal, leading to issues like porosity and brittleness. By removing these gases, the metal becomes more homogeneous and stronger.

The process typically involves placing the molten metal in a vacuum chamber or using a vacuum system to create a low-pressure environment around the metal. The reduced pressure facilitates the release of gases from the molten metal. Additionally, vacuumafgasning can help remove non-metallic inclusions, further improving the purity of the metal.

Vacuumafgasning is particularly important in the production of high-quality steels, such as those used in automotive and aerospace applications, where strength and reliability are critical. The process can be performed in various types of furnaces, including ladle furnaces and vacuum induction furnaces, depending on the specific requirements of the metal being processed.

In summary, vacuumafgasning is a vital metallurgical process that enhances the quality of metals by removing dissolved gases and impurities. Its application ensures that the final metal products meet stringent standards for performance and durability.