Metal hardening is the process of making metals such as stainless steel plates stronger. For example, metals such as stainless steel plates used in daily life can be better resistant to wear after hardening. There are different types of metal hardening processes like heat treatment etc. Which method to use depends on the type of metal that will undergo the process and its level of hardness.
The hardening process often changes the mechanical properties of metals such as stainless steel sheets. It makes the metal piece harder to wear and also gains strength, making it harder to deform. The metal hardening process may also alter the physical properties of some metals, including their magnetic properties.
Surface hardening of metals increases their wear resistance and makes them stronger. Surface hardening involves changing the chemical composition and microstructure of the metal at the surface area. Thermal and chemical hardfacing methods are performed using heat-based and chemical-based processes. Laser heat treatment is a relatively recent surface hardening technique.
Quench hardening is a form of heat hardening used on steel and cast iron metals. The process involves heating the metal to a certain temperature, which depends on the percentage of carbon in the steel or iron. The metal remains at this temperature for some time. This process changes the metal’s lattice structure, making it more resistant. After the quenching process, the metal is tempered.
The metal hardening process must be done correctly or it could cause problems. Inhomogeneous quenching can result, for example, in warped metal fins. If the quenching process is too severe, it may change the dimensions of the steel. Another problem that may arise is that the metal may crack. This can happen if the steel is not quenched immediately after quenching. Also, if the quenching is not strong enough, the metal may not harden.