Troubleshooting Nitriding Process Problems – Part 2
15 June 2020The nitriding process improves the life expectancy of machine parts, so reducing the consumption of steel and energy and, as a result, the cost of the entire manufacturing process. For this reason, it may be considered both economically and ecologically beneficial. Economical and ecological advantages will at the same time characterise a process in which the formation of the nitrided layer occurs in a short process time, with minimal consumption of gases and electrical energy.
There are several thermo-chemical surface treatment processes that are practiced today. The more they are, the more problems we can encounter from them. Below are some of the other problems that can occur with the nitriding process. Below are ways on how to troubleshoot nitriding process problems.
Case Exfoliation
If it is seen that the nitrided case begins to peel off, this is usually indicative that surface decarburization is present on the surface of the component. The decarburization is as a direct result of insufficient surface stock removal at the pre-nitride machining operations, decarburisation has occurred at the pre-heat-treatment operation. The component should be considered to be scrap, and it is not recommended to be salvaged.
Orange-Peel Effect
The surface of the steel is seen to be randomly “dimpled” over the affected surface. Once again, this problem can be associated with the presence of surface decarburization.
Case Chipping
If the nitrided case is seen to be chipping, particularly at corners, it is usually indicative of what is known as nitride networking. This is an over-enriched area of nitrogen where very hard and brittle nitrogen precipitates form with the nitride-forming elements in the steel. This problem will usually occur when the nitriding potential of the process gas is too high. The remedy is to check the gas flow and dissociation and reduce the flow accordingly.
Case Flaking
This can occur as a direct result of the presence of a surface contaminant on the component. Investigate the pre-cleaning method prior to nitriding and after pre-machining.
Case Crushing
This problem is usually due to a low core hardness that is failing to support the nitrided case. Another possibility is that the formed case is too shallow, and this can be remedied by increasing the case depth. However, the increase of case depth should be cautioned. Check what the application of the work piece is and what sort of load will be applied to the component. For more information about troubleshooting nitriding process problems, consult Alpha Detroit. Our company policy guarantees that we will continue to upgrade current heat treatment technologies to keep pace with changing industry demands. We have a team commitment that our experienced and qualified staff are ready to assist you with your heat treatment requirements.
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