Source: Thermal Processing Magazine
The finite element method can provide insights needed by engineers to calibrate thermal processes, whether it’s carburizing or nitriding, and maximize the benefits of the heat treatment.
Carburizing and nitriding treatments have the same goal: increase hardness on the surface while keeping the core ductility. Carburizing is a process where the part is placed in a confined environment regulated by its carbon content. By adjusting the parameters such as temperature and time, the carbon will diffuse into the part to a certain thickness. While the carbon content (%C) is fairly known at the locations where the carbon has diffused, it is harder to anticipate how far the carbon has diffused. The nitriding process uses the same concept but with nitrogen instead of carbon. The simulation of this process is helpful for the engineer to optimize the process. This article presents two examples to illustrate the carburizing and nitriding heat treatment processes.
Read more: Carburizing and Nitriding Treatment Modeling by Nicolas Poulain
