Reasons Why Tempering is Done after Quenching
30 January 2021When it comes to metal fabrication, there are a lot of processes that are utilised to effectively modify the properties of metal products according to the intended application. These processes normally require specific conditions and elements so they can be done without any compromises.
Two processes that can modify the overall composition of metal products are quenching and tempering. Quenching is a metal heat treatment process that is done by cooling a metal for it to acquire adjusted mechanical properties. Tempering, alternatively, heats it to a high temperature before cooling it through different media, helping the product reduce internal stresses and lessen brittleness.
The Effects of the Quenching Process
As mentioned, quenching takes place by cooling a metal product. During this metal heat treatment process, the heated metal product is normally submerged in a cooling media such as oil, water, or brine, allowing it to solidify and harden. The overall cooling process of quenching ensures that the metal product will be prevented from undergoing unsought low-temperature processes. Moreover, it allows metal products to be durable enough in withstanding elements that can come from various applications.
One downside of quenching, however, is that the metal product tends to become brittle. Quenching can likewise make it vulnerable to cracking and other similar irregularities. Fortunately, these problems can be resolved by allowing a metal product to undergo additional heat treatment processes.
The Process of Tempering is Vital
Tempering is one of the additional heat treatment processes that metal can undergo after quenching. This specific process is done to reduce the hardness of a metal product or alloy and subsequently enhance its durability. These properties allow a metal product or alloy to be useful in extreme conditions.
This process is conducted through heating a metal to a certain duration and temperature for it to gain the previously stated properties. The exact duration and temperature of the heating process vary based on the intended application of the metal. For instance, hard tools are usually tempered at low temperatures so they can an increased hardness. Springs and other flexible mechanical parts, alternatively, are tempered at higher temperatures for them to obtain a decrease in hardness.
Conducting the tempering process can easily help eradicate the brittleness of metal out of the quenching process. Additionally, subjecting metal products or alloys under quenching and tempering processes can help them achieve the desired hardness, ductility, and durability, which can be very useful in certain applications and industries.
Alpha Detroit Heat Treatment Services
If you want to know more about both quenching and tempering processes, then feel free to contact us Alpha Detroit Heat Treatment. We provide a wide range of services for all your heat treatment needs. Our expertise allows us to suggest the most appropriate process for your heat treatment requirements. We likewise pride ourselves on providing quality service and reliability.
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