A metallurgical process for increasing the hardness of metals, hardening can be done by thermal transformation (quench and temper), by mechanically induced stress (strain hardening), by precipitation (through heat treatment and subsequent aging), by solid solution strengthening (e.g., carburizing) or by reducing the grain size of the material.
All hardening methods are characterized by increased crystal lattice defects/dislocations.
BENEFITS
- Increased strength
- Increased hardness
- Improved fatigue life
- Increased wear resistance
The Horizontal Vacuum Furnace and Vertical Vacuum Furnace series deliver superior performance for hardening applications requiring high strength, ductility, and elasticity. Click the links below for more details or request a quote. Our technical support team will help you find the right system that matches your process and application requirements.