A black oxide finish imbues a worked ferrous component with an attractive ebony coating. The process transforms a thin layer of surface metal into iron oxide, so no deposits are called for here, just a chemical reaction that enhances corrosion resistance. As advantageous as this supplementary feature undoubtedly is, black […]
Large-scale engineering projects use machined metal components to support structural loads. They accomplish this task by accessing the strength of a selected alloy. Unfortunately, strength isn’t the only attribute contained within the metal. The worked part also contains undesirable properties, those incurred by numerous machine stations. Residual stress is the […]
Hot die materials are burdened with a formidable task, which is an elaborate way of saying high temperatures and higher pressures are at work. The forging process applies compressive force and heat to the tools used in forging processes, so deformation stress is a major issue. Fortunately, heat treatment techniques […]
As we discuss carbonitriding, expect to be carried through a heat treatment process that relies heavily on the control of local atmospheric variables. In particular, as the label implies, carbon and nitrogen atoms are injected into the controlled environment. Undoubtedly, this is an essential technique, one that surface hardens base […]
Gears and wheel sprockets are low profile components, but that understated physical form belies an innate knack for handling near unendurable loads. Geometrically detailed, these essential mechanical parts are machined from the finest materials. Manufactured, machined, and balanced, the parts are then heat treated so that they can tolerate high […]