An application where wear and tear, high temperature and the possibility of corrosion from acids is a problem, finishing of parts using specialized process can extend their life cycle significantly.
A Simple Explanation
For these types of demanding applications, one option in a surface hardening treatment processes is boronizing or boriding. This method uses heat, typically at about 900 degrees Celcius, combined with the presence of a boriding mixture. This mixture will vary slightly between processes and services, but it will use boron carbide in the powdered state combined with other types of materials.
Boron carbide is an extremely hard material and is used in the manufacturing of armor for tanks and in bulletproof vests, shields, and material for vehicles. It is also used in nuclear reaction facilities for shielding and other purposes.
During the heating process, some of the iron in the steel part or component will be converted to iron boride that will create a hard, protective layer on the surface of the part. This layer can be controlled to provide an even, uniform coating to meet any standards or requirements.
In addition to steel, boronizing can be used on any of the nickel-based superalloys, stellite, tool steels as well as alloy steels. It is not used with aluminum or stainless steel.
Application Considerations
The process can be completed quickly and accurately, allowing for fast turnaround of orders. For some types of parts and components, the boriding can be completed on just the desired surfaces.
To extend the life of parts or components that will move against other parts, that will be exposed to friction, high heat or any type of galling, boronizing is an ideal option. It leaves a gray surface to the metal that is slippery and uniform, and it is possible to polish the surface to a high luster if required.