Ion Nitriding

Ion nitriding surface hardens tool, alloy, and stainless steels for extended wear life without the distortions that can result from high temperature processing. Additionally, ion nitriding introduces favorable compressive stresses, reducing part failures.

The process results from a reaction caused by a high voltage glow discharge between the metal being processed (the cathode) and the vacuum chamber’s wall (the anode). Aspects of the glow discharge are a function of operating parameters such as applied voltage, vacuum level and gas mixture. Nitrogen ions react with the base metal or other alloys present forming nitrides and ultimately the desired nitrided case.

The programmable logic controllers and temperature recorders permit excellent control of the parameters. Solar’s furnaces are equipped with the best instrumentation technology capable of repeatability and customized operations. Solar has four ion nitriding furnaces with capacity up to 5000 lbs. Most components can be used immediately after processing.

Benefits:

• Surface hardens up to RC 72 (dependent on alloy and case depth)
• Reduced fatigue failure
• Extended wear life
• Shorter processing time
• Minimal distortion
• Excellent dimensional stability
• Case depth ranges from .001" – .025" based on alloy content