Case hardening alters the surface chemistry or microstructure of a steel component to create a hard, wear-resistant outer layer over a softer core. Operators achieve this by diffusing carbon or nitrogen into the surface at high heat followed by quenching, or by rapidly heating and quenching just the outer skin. This prevents the part from snapping under heavy impact.
Heard on the job
Make sure you case harden those gears to at least 58 HRC on the teeth.
Also heard as
- Case hardening
- Surface hardening
- Case-hardened
Related terms
Carburizing
Diffusing carbon into the surface of low-carbon steel at high heat, then quenching for a hard case.
Induction hardening
Heating only the surface of a steel part with an alternating magnetic field, then quenching for a hard case.
Quench
To cool hot metal rapidly in a liquid or gas so that it hardens, or the act of doing so.