D. J. Williams, Inductoheat - Inductotherm Industries, Madison Heights, MI

Summary: This study examines the process of induction scan hardening medium carbon steel components. Induction heat treating is used to improve wear, bending and torsional strength of steel components. Induction capital equipment manufacturers, commercial heat treaters and Tier 1 automotive suppliers are the most common users of induction. These organizations are forced to predict induction machine cycle times based on limited information and experience. The scope of this experimental study is to test for support of a positive relationship between power density and induction scan rate. By investigating this relationship and establishing a coefficient or correlation between a known primary independent variable (power density) and induction scan rate, production rates can be more accurately predicted. The data used in this study establish a positive relationship between power density and scan rate. Introduction of other independent variables in future research is suggested to further substantiate strength of correlation.