Gas Nitriding is an advanced heat treatment process used to enhance the surface properties of steel components. It involves the diffusion of nitrogen into the surface of steel at controlled temperatures in a nitrogen-rich atmosphere. This process creates a hardened surface that significantly improves wear resistance, fatigue strength, and corrosion resistance.

Gas nitriding is ideal for a wide range of steel grades and is performed at lower temperatures compared to other processes like carburizing, reducing the risk of distortion. The process induces a hard, wear-resistant compound layer of iron nitrides and a tough, resilient diffusion layer underneath, without causing significant changes in the component’s size. The treated parts exhibit superior performance under demanding conditions, making it an excellent choice for a variety of applications and steel grades, including low alloy steels, stainless steels, tool steels, and cast irons. The surface hardness achieved through gas nitriding typically ranges from 500 HV (50 HRC) for low alloy steels to 1200 HV (>70 HRC) for tool steels and stainless steels. This leads to exceptional wear, seizure, scuffing, galling, fatigue, and corrosion resistance, particularly in parts subjected to cyclic loads and harsh environments.

Benefits

• The process is performed at low temperatures (typically between 930- 1050 F), causing minimal distortion of diameter change, Minimal distortion, preserving the part’s geometry.
• A hard, wear-resistant compound layer is formed on the surface, consisting primarily of iron nitrides.
• Enhanced fatigue strength and wear resistance for parts exposed to cyclic stresses.

Gas nitriding is an essential process for industries where parts must withstand harsh conditions and extensive use. Its ability to improve the performance and longevity of steel components while maintaining their size and shape makes it a valuable treatment for a wide range of applications.