Induction hardening (also known as surface hardening or just inductification or induction hardening and tempering) is a heat treating process used to increase the hardness of steel components by inducing a controlled amount of heat into the surface of the part. It is one of the most common methods used to improve the wear and tear resistance of steel parts.
Induction hardening is accomplished by using a high-frequency alternating current that penetrates the part being heated. This current creates a magnetic field that generates an electric field in the workpiece. This electric field interacts with the steel to create heat, which increases the hardness of the component.
The induction hardening process is used in a wide range of industries, from automotive to aerospace and from medical to military applications. It is typically used for parts that require greater wear and tear resistance than what can be achieved through conventional heat treating processes. It is also a cost-effective solution for achieving greater durability.
The induction hardening process is particularly advantageous in that heat is only generated in the area of the component that is being treated. This limits the thermal stress on the component and reduces distortion. It is also a fast and efficient process that can be automatically controlled to achieve uniform results.
The hardness of the component is determined by the type of steel being used, the alternating current being applied and the duration of the heating cycle. The current can be adjusted depending on the desired hardness and the type of steel being treated.
Induction hardening is the ideal process to use for parts that need to resist wear, tear, heat and corrosion. This heat treating process offers a cost-effective solution to achieve desired results without sacrificing durability or longevity. It is a highly reliable process and offers consistent results, making it a popular choice for a wide range of industries.
