Nitriding in pulse glowing discharge (Plasma Nitriding) is an efficient method to increase hardness and wear-resistance of metals and alloys. The basic technological advantage of this method is the low temperature at which the process is conducted (800-1200°F) resulting in very small dimensional deformations and distortions.

Plasma nitriding of items is characterized by their active participation in glow discharge, since they serve as cathodes. Compared to standard gas nitriding, plasma nitriding has the following advantages:

• 3 to 5 times reduced duration of treatment
• 50% less energy consumption
• 50 to 100 times less working gas consumption
• Less distortions because plasma nitriding is performed at lower temperature and under a vacuum
• Higher surface, case, and core hardness
• Excellent wear resistance – plasma nitriding process produces a compound zone that is dense, nonporous, very hard but not brittle, and has a low coefficient of friction
• Reproducible results and better control compared to gas nitriding- the technological process of plasma nitriding is fully automated and computer controlled
• Very good surface finish - no additional mechanical treatments are necessary
• Necessity of activation of stainless steel is eliminated
• Easy masking - surfaces which require selective treatment are easily masked with reusable, mechanical masking devices – 100% effective
• Excellent hygiene and working conditions - the process is not toxic and abides by all modern requirements of environmental control