Carbonitriding is a thermochemical surface treatment process that combines the benefits of both carburizing and nitriding. The process involves introducing a carbon and nitrogen-rich atmosphere around the steel components to simultaneously enrich the surface with both elements. This treatment results in a hard, wear-resistant case that improves the component’s resistance to wear, fatigue, and corrosion, making it ideal for parts subjected to high-stress conditions. In Atlantic Heat-Treating Carbonitriding at lower temperatures than traditional carburizing, usually between 1600 °F and 1680 °F and it can be performed using gas. This allows the process to be applied without causing significant distortion to the part, making it suitable for intricate or high-precision components. The combination of carbon and nitrogen provides superior wear resistance, increased surface hardness, and enhanced fatigue strength.
The process forms a tough, wear-resistant compound layer of iron carbonitrides on the surface, along with a diffusion layer beneath that contains both nitrogen and carbon. The hardness of the surface can range from 50 HRC for low alloy steels to more than 65 HRC for alloyed steels like tool steels. This makes the process ideal for parts subjected to dynamic loading, sliding, or abrasive wear.

Benefits

• The treatment produces both a hard compound layer and a diffusion layer that provides superior resistance to wear, scuffing, fatigue, corrosion and surface durability.
• Suitable for low alloy steels, high alloy steels, tool steels, stainless steels, and cast irons.
• The process results in minimal change in part dimensions, preserving tolerances and fit.

Carbonitriding is an effective solution for improving the performance and longevity of components in industries where high durability and wear resistance are essential. The combined benefits of both carbon and nitrogen in the surface treatment process allow for superior performance in high-stress environments, making it ideal for a wide range of industrial applications.