There are many different options to treat the surface of a metal part or component to develop a more durable, longer-lasting surface that can stand up to wear and tear even in extreme types of operations and systems.
Two that are often used, and sometimes confused, are the nitriding and the nitrocarburizing processes. Nitriding uses a controlled heating process in a nitrogen-rich environment that causes the nitrogen to diffuse into the surface of the metal. The result is a surface that is harder, particularly for low-carbon and alloy types of steels as well as aluminum and titanium.
The Process
The process of nitrocarburizing is also a thermochemical process, which means it uses heat as well as the presence of nitrogen and carbon that diffuses into the surface of the metal. There is also a very low amount of oxygen that also diffuses into the surface.
In general, the process of nitrocarburizing produces a much thinner layer or a shallower case than nitriding. It requires less heat and less time, which means it is more cost effective. With lower heat, there is also less risk of distortion of the parts, so there is no need for additional processes to relieve stress in the metal.
The Benefits
With both ferritic and austenitic processes, which are different, the part has superior wear resistance and fatigue strength. It is also less likely to corrode, which is essential in many types of applications.
Parts that are heat treated with this process include engine parts such as gears and piston rings as well as camshafts and crankshafts in vehicles and equipment. It is also a preferred heat treatment option for many types of dying, including those used in aluminum forging processes as well as extrusion forming operations.
The use of nitrocarburizing is ideal anywhere that maintaining the part or component in high use applications with limited wear is a central factor.