Austempering is a process that utilizes a salt bath at a higher temperature (typically in the range of 600 degrees F depending on desired hardness) to quench parts. The advantage of the austempering process is that distortion is usually reduced due to the substantially higher salt bath quenching temperature.
Molten salts used in Austempering transfer heat rapidly. The process increases ductility and reduces product distortion.
Austempering is a great alternative to conventional heat treating, especially for springs and stampings that require precise dimensional control. The reduced distortion from the austempering process can lessen subsequent machining time, stock removal and cost. The clean “blueish” non-oily surface allows for ease of product handling and is very receptive to subsequent operations such as painting or plating with very little preparation time.
Reduced distortion of parts compared to traditional water or oil quenching delivering mechanical advantages differing from typical quenching mediums.
Austemepering is typically performed on carbon and alloy steel stampings, springs and ductile irons.
The size and shape of the items to be Austempered depends on the equipment operated by the heat treater, check the availability of suitably sized facilities at an early stage.
Each different component and material supplied for Austempering alike all thermal processes have individual uncertainties that need to be addressed prior to selecting this or any other treatment. Please consult with your heat treater at an early stage in design process.
All of the following information should be included if possible. If uncertain, ask your heat treater before producing a specification:
- Material: type, grade, and the standard from which it is drawn, with drawing, composition and mill certificate where available.
- Any general standards applicable (national, international or company) that contain relevant details which must be adhered to.
- Existing condition; e.g. details of any prior heat treatment
- The level of mechanical properties required. Generally a hardness range . A maximum hardness level is often requested.
- The type(s) of testing required; e.g. hardness (Vickers, Brinell), tensile etc. and any special locations for testing or the removal of samples for test pieces.
- Requirements for any special certificates or data to be provided by your heat treater.
Guidance and information is always available from our experience heat treatment professionals.
Our procedures and work instructions are fully documented under our AS 9100 and ISO 9001 quality management systems.