High Temperature Gas Nitriding
High Temperature Gas Nitriding of stainless steels is a unique case hardening process for cavitation, wear, and pitting resistance.
High Temperature Gas Nitriding is carried out on stainless steel alloys at temperatures between 1050 and 1200°C (1925F- 2200°F). Like low temperature processes, it does not form surface nitrides, making it possible to maintain or even enhance a component’s corrosion resistance. The process also results in case hardness increases of 75-250HV.
High Temperature Gas Nitriding is commonly referred to as Solution Nitriding.
Primary Advantages:
- Hard corrosion resistant layer
- Effective case depth: 0.25-1.5mm (0.010-0.060inch)
- Residual compressive stresses (increased fatigue life)
- Simple process controled with nitrogen pressure and process time
- Uniform nitrogen activity in holes and bores
- Low environmental impact
Historical Uses:
- Pump housings
- Shafts
- Gears
- Impellers
- Bearings
- Valve components
- Food processing components
- Injectors
Compatible Materials:
- Austinitic stainless steels (most 300 series)
- Martensitic stainless steels (most 400 series)*
- Many duplex stainless steels
*May require double hardening process for grain refinement
