The chemical used in heat treatment is typically a non-reactive atmosphere or a bath of non-reactive molten salt. These are employed to minimize undesirable chemical reactions during the heat treatment process, which can alter the surface properties of the metal, sometimes leading to a softer or harder "skin" than the rest of the component.
Non-Reactive Atmospheres: During heat treatment, the air in the heat treating chamber is often replaced with a non-reactive atmosphere such as nitrogen, argon, or other gas mixtures. This method is known as controlled atmosphere heat treating. The purpose of using these gases is to prevent oxidation and other chemical reactions that could degrade the metal's surface properties. Nitrogen and argon are inert gases, meaning they do not readily react with other substances, making them ideal for creating a controlled environment during heat treatment.
Non-Reactive Molten Salts: Another method used in heat treatment is the use of baths of non-reactive molten salt. These salts are chosen for their stability at high temperatures and their ability to provide a protective environment for the metal being treated. While these environments may still contain very low levels of residual impurities, they are generally effective in preventing unwanted chemical reactions. The use of molten salts allows for precise temperature control and uniform heating, which is crucial for achieving consistent results in the heat treatment process.
Both methods—using non-reactive atmospheres and non-reactive molten salts—are essential in heat treatment to ensure that the desired physical and mechanical properties of the metal are achieved without compromising its integrity through unwanted chemical reactions. These techniques are critical in industries where the quality and performance of metals are paramount, such as in the automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing sectors.
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