Kruppizing improved upon earlier armor hardening methods by using a chromium-nickel steel alloy and carburizing the face with illuminating gas rather than solid charcoal. The plates are heated in a specialized furnace where the carbon-rich gas passes over the surface, diffusing deeply into the metal. A subsequent water quench produces a face that resists cracking.
We'll kruppize the main belt armor to save weight without sacrificing ballistic protection.
This process rendered Harvey armor obsolete by providing a tougher case that allowed naval architects to use thinner, lighter plates.
Also heard as
- Krupp process
Related terms
Carburizing
Diffusing carbon into the surface of low-carbon steel at high heat, then quenching for a hard case.
Harveyize
An historic process for face-hardening thick steel armor plates by packing them with charcoal and baking them.
Case harden
To harden the outer surface of a metal part while leaving the interior tough and ductile.