M. Wiezbowski, MKW & Associates ,LLC, Auburn Hills, MI
Hardening stresses fall into two categories – tensile or compressive . How they are created in the induction process can be a combination of thermal stress and metallurgical stress. In order to maximize the full potential of an induction hardening process it is critical to have knowledge and understanding on the type and level of residual stress imparted to the subject component .
The residual stress in any component is an important characteristic for determining reliability and durability. It is in the residual compressive stresses that benefits are realized which enable the engineer to consider these stresses, in addition to the base material strength, that will not only improve heat treat quality, but also increase component strength and lower material costs through a lighter weight design while saving energy at the same time.
This paper will present a ductile iron camshaft case study which outlines varying compressive stress levels, relative to the hardened case depth, and provide a solution to monitor and control the hardening cell as a fully optimized process on a real-time basis .
Summary: Hardening stresses fall into two categories – tensile or compressive . How they are created in the induction process can be a combination of thermal stress and metallurgical stress. In order to maximize the full potential of an induction hardening process it is critical to have knowledge and understanding on the type and level of residual stress imparted to the subject component .
