Experimental Characterization of Quenching Boiling Phenomena

Simulation of quenching operations offers a means of determining the mechanisms behind quench-related distortion and residual stress, and provides a tool for developing process improvements. While isothermal flow models can provide qualitative insight, a comprehensive model that includes boiling phenomena is required if a quantitative prediction is desired. To date, however, there is little published data on the characteristics of boiling phenomena in sub-cooled oils.

To fill that gap in the data, an experimental facility has been developed to characterize the boiling phenomena relevant to quenching processes. The effect of quenchant velocity, orientation of the surface relative to the flow, and the effect of gravity on parameters such as vapor film thickness, Leidenfrost temperature, nucleation site density, and bubble departure size have been determined. These data will be used in the development of a comprehensive quenching model.