Vacuum Nitriding
Excellent Surface Hardening & Improved Metallurgical Characteristics to Extend Part Wear Life
Vacuum nitriding provides excellent surface hardening and improves metallurgical characteristics to extend part wear life. In fact, depending on the alloy processed, Solar’s vacuum nitriding increases the surface hardness by 40% – 70%. To preserve part specifications, vacuum nitriding’s controlled low temperature (1050°F) minimizes any inherent part distortion. Metallurgically, the surface hardness depth (.001- .020) preserves the core strength and durability while improved fatigue resistance and anti-galling properties, reducing adhesive and abrasive wear.
Depending on your requirements, Solar offers two vacuum nitriding processes, gas or ion (plasma). Gas nitriding surface hardens ferrous materials by processing parts below the austenitic temperature. Ammonia dissociates on the metal surface producing nascent N and H. The nitrogen (N) is absorbed on the surface and diffuses into the metal. The result is a hard, wear resistant surface. Ion nitriding 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). Operating parameters such as applied voltage, vacuum level and nitrogen ions react with the metal alloys forming the nitrided surface. Solar’s sales engineers will recommend the best process for your application based on specifications, part geometry and application.
Offering both gas and ion nitriding means Solar can surface harden simple or complex geometries. Please call Solar (800.347.3236) or email (info@solaratm.com) to discuss the best nitriding alternative for your application. Solar’s sales engineers are eager to be of assistance.