pintakarkaisun

Pintakarkaisun is a Finnish term referring to a type of surface hardening heat treatment applied to certain metals, primarily steel. The process involves heating the surface layer of the metal to a specific temperature, followed by rapid cooling or quenching. This rapid cooling causes the formation of a harder, more wear-resistant microstructure, such as martensite, in the surface layer. The core of the metal, however, remains relatively softer and tougher, providing a balance of properties.

The depth of the hardened layer can be controlled by adjusting parameters like the heating temperature, time, and the composition of the quenching medium. Common quenching media include water, oil, or brine. Pintakarkaisun is often employed to enhance the durability and performance of components subjected to friction and wear, such as gears, shafts, and cutting tools. It is a widely used surface treatment in manufacturing industries due to its effectiveness in improving surface properties without significantly altering the overall dimensions or mechanical properties of the bulk material. The process is distinct from through hardening, which hardens the entire piece of metal.