Understanding Furnace Atmosphere Composition For Neutral And Gas Carburizing Applications

Studying the gas composition of an atmosphere furnace reveals many parameters that can be used to predict metallurgical results of parts being processed. Today’s heat treaters strive for process consistency in order to eliminate variability, rework, and (in the worst case) scrap. In atmosphere heat treating, understanding control parameters and atmosphere composition provides critical insight into expected results.

In this presentation, the audience will have the opportunity to observe gas compositions that would typically be found in carbon-neutral or carbon-rich atmospheres; they will also be able to see how atmospheric properties directly affect the metallurgical properties of heat treated parts. The presenter will illustrate examples of common atmospheres based on furnace types and will discuss common characteristics of improperly controlled atmospheres and how those atmospheres can lead to flawed results.  Real-world examples of metallurgical results will be used to illustrate what can be expected from an “out of control” situation.