Induction hardening is achieved by controlling phase transformation that steels undergo in solid state. In particular, it provides a viable means to case harden carbon and low alloy steel.
Advantages of induction hardening:
• It is a clean, fast and repeatable process
• Heat cycle is automated
• Reduced scaling
• Application is possible for surface and localized heat treatment
• No contact is required between the workload and the heat source
• Parameters such as frequency and power can be controlled to obtain desired mechanical properties
With the correct frequency and power density, all heat can be concentrated instantly in a localized region. This region will have its metallurgical nature changed without affecting the rest of the core material. The result is a hardened surface of controllable depth back by a tough core. This enhances surface wear resistance.