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Metal Stress Relieving Services
In the process of manufacturing metal parts, a certain amount of stress will inevitably be induced into the part. Stress can be caused by machining, welding, cold working, hot rolling, cutting, drilling, grinding and any other process that moves metal. Sometimes the stress causes noticeable distortion during the manufacturing process. Residual stress in a part can be detrimental in service, cracking and general instability can result. To combat the problem, metal stress relieving can be employed.
The process of metal stress relieving services is defined in the ASM publication the Heat Treater’s Guide as: “Heating to a suitable temperature, holding long enough to reduce residual stresses, and then cooling slowly enough to minimize the development of new residual stresses”. Metal stress relieving services are material-specific; a low carbon steel process is far different than a nickel base alloy process. It is typically performed at a temperature below that at which any significant change in the material will take place. Metal stress relieving services may be employed after a part is manufactured, or at various stages of the manufacturing process. In tool steel parts, metal stress relieving may be performed after rough machining and prior to near-final machining. This allows the stress to be relieved while the part can move into a “comfortable” state, meaning there will be less stress-induced distortion realized from final heat treatment.
Metal stress relieving services typically require precise heating and cooling rates be employed. Through the use of modern temperature controlling devices, Solar Atmospheres is able to produce any heating and cooling rate (required) to relieve stress, and minimize the introduction of new stress. Thermocouples are placed in the parts to ensure the required temperature, time, and heating and cooling rates are achieved. The process may be performed in a vacuum furnace to minimize oxidation or in a standard air oven if the resultant surface finish is not critical. In either case, the entire process is recorded electronically and detailed process charts can be produced to meet demanding quality records requirements.
For more information on Metal Stress Relieving Services or other services, please contact our sales department.
Industries Served
- Aerospace
- Automotive
- Castings
- Defense
- Drawn Parts
- Fabricators
- Fasteners
- Electronics
- Heat Exchangers
- Instruments
- Job Shop
- Manufacturing
- Medical
- Metals
- Power Generation
- Stampings
- Tool & Die
- Tube & Pipe
Solar Advantages of Metal Stress Relieving Services
- Minimize distortion
- Furnaces ranging from lab sizes to 36 feet long
- Customize cycle development for specific applications
- Environmentally friendly process
- Technical assistance in defining requirements
- Metallurgical Capabilities
Materials Processed by Metal Stress Relieving Services
- Composites
- Ferrous and nonferrous metals
- Plastics
- Ceramics
- Metal powders