fullglödgning

Fullglödgning is a heat treatment process used on metals, primarily steel, to soften them, improve machinability, and relieve internal stresses. The process involves heating the metal to a specific temperature, holding it there for a period, and then cooling it slowly. The exact temperature and holding time depend on the type of metal and the desired outcome.

During fullglödgning, the metal's microstructure is altered. Grains within the metal recrystallize and grow, and the internal stresses that may have accumulated during previous manufacturing steps are reduced. This softening effect is crucial for subsequent metalworking operations, such as cutting, shaping, or forming, as it makes the material less resistant to deformation.

The slow cooling rate is a critical component of fullglödgning. It allows the metal to transform into its softest possible state, typically a ferritic-pearlitic structure in steel. Rapid cooling, in contrast, would result in hardening. The slow cooling is often achieved by leaving the material in the furnace and allowing it to cool down with the furnace, or by burying it in an insulating material like sand or ash.

Fullglödgning is applied to a wide range of steel products, including rolled or forged parts, castings, and wire. It is an essential step in preparing many metal components for their final use, ensuring they possess the necessary properties for their intended application. The process is an integral part of metallurgy and manufacturing.