Nitriding

process

AMS 2759/6 & AMS 2759/10

Gas Nitriding is a surface hardening process in which nitrogen is added to the surface of steel using dissociated ammonia as the medium. The result is a very hard case component achieved using a low temperature and alleviating the need for quenching. Recent developments utilizing computer control of the atmosphere have led to a process that can be accurately controlled. The thickness and phase formation of the Nitriding layer can now be selected and precisely maintained.

specifications

As with other nitriding processes, Gas Nitriding is carried out at temperatures below what would be required to transform alloy steel. When combined with the proper manufacturing techniques, minimal distortion is observed at these lower temperatures. This results in a very high strength product with extremely good wear resistance. Additionally, Gas Nitriding permits large batch sizes, meaning furnace and gas flow are the sole limitations.
The typical temperature range is 925F – 1050F

applications

Valve Parts, extrusion screws, plastic mold tools, forging dies

process

AMS 2759/8

In the 1980’s the first commercial application of the Ion Nitriding process was introduced into the United States. This technology utilized a combination of vacuum, voltage, temperature and gas flow controllers that precisely control the final Nitriding phase. In recent years, Ion Nitriding equipment manufacturers have made significant modifications in equipment, electronics and software design. Aalberts surface technologies uses Pulse Plasma Generators that utilize the most current technology available. These advances in technology have allowed us to increase the tool performance and the value of our customer’s finished products to above market standards.

specifications

Ion Nitriding significantly increases material fatigue and strength. This process is particularly suited for applications where heat checking and mechanical shock occur. The primary factor that influences case depth and hardness is the chemistry of the steel and the process parameters, such as gas composition and voltage manipulation.

The typical processing temperature is 850°F – 1100°F (480°C – 580°C)
Working Dim: 39” x 60”; Load Capacity 9,000 lbs.
Working Dim: 60” x 94”; Load Capacity 15,000 lbs.
Working Dim: 60” x 80”; Load Capacity 15,000 lbs.
download information packet: Plasma Nitriding of Stainless Steels

Process	Gamma Prime
Micro Hardness HV .01	900-1200
Case Depth	2-10µm
Max Working Temp. (Oxid)	< 600°C
Properties	Pitting and abrasive wear
Main Use	Gear & shear applications

Process	Epsilon
Micro Hardness HV .01	900-1250
Case Depth	2-10µm
Max Working Temp. (Oxid)	< 600°C
Properties	Abrasive wear resistance/galling
Main Use	Metal Forming/Gears

Process	Diffusion
Micro Hardness HV .01	900-1100
Case Depth	.002″ – .020″
Max Working Temp. (Oxid)	< 600°C
Properties	Impact and wear resistance
Main Use	Forging & Stamping

Process	S-Phase
Micro Hardness HV .01	900-1100
Case Depth	2-25-µm
Max Working Temp. (Oxid)	< 500°C
Properties	Improves wear and corrosion resistance
Main Use	Aerospace, Medical, Oil/Gas

applications

Feed Screw, Coining Die, Fuel Injector, Military Weapon Components, Scalpels

process

AMS 2759/8

The S-Phase increases the hardness of the surface and case depths up to 25 microns depending on the alloy. Typical materials are 300 series, PH series and Duplex stainless steels. In an effort to meet the high demands for a low fatigue, wear resistant stainless steel, Aalberts surface technologies has developed a proprietary method called Ionic Diffusion SS.