When it comes to heat treat ovens, the choice of inert gas is crucial for preventing oxidation and other chemical reactions that could degrade materials.
What Inert Gas is Heat Treat Oven? 3 Key Options Explained
1. Nitrogen (N2)
Nitrogen is a common choice for heat treatment processes, especially for non-ferrous metals like copper, brass, and aluminum.
It is considered inert at temperatures below 1800°C and effectively displaces oxygen, reducing the risk of oxidation.
However, under specific conditions, nitrogen can react with oxygen to form gases like nitric oxide (NO) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2), collectively known as NOx gases.
Despite this, nitrogen is a cost-effective choice for creating an inert atmosphere when the material being treated does not react with it.
2. Argon (Ar)
Argon is another frequently used gas in heat treatment processes.
It is more inert than nitrogen and is particularly useful in high-temperature applications where the risk of chemical reactions is higher.
Argon is often used in combination with nitrogen or helium to create a more stable and inert environment.
For instance, the KT Series inert gas oven operates with a mix of nitrogen and argon, capable of reducing the oxygen level to less than 20ppm, which is essential for processes like firing LCD glasses and inert metal treatment.
3. Helium (He)
Helium is also used in heat treatment processes, especially in high-temperature applications.
It is highly inert and provides a stable environment for materials that require a high level of protection from chemical reactions.
Helium is often used in combination with nitrogen or argon to enhance the inertness of the atmosphere.
Continue exploring, consult our experts
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