Induction hardening

Induction hardening (high-frequency / medium-frequency) – polymer quenching

Local, precise and fast surface hardening with minimal distortion. Induction hardening heats only where it is needed – we control the hardened depth through the choice of frequency, power and time. For quenching we use a polymer quenchant, which supports uniform heat extraction and stable dimensions.

Principle and benefits

Induction hardening is local heating of the steel surface by an inductor, followed by rapid cooling (quenching) in polymer. This produces a hard martensitic layer with a tough core.

What you gain:

• precise hardened depth (controlled by choosing HF / MF technology)

• minimal distortion thanks to local heating and controlled quenching in polymer

• fast process suitable for series and single-part production

• higher wear and fatigue resistance in critical zones

When to choose high vs. medium frequency

• High frequency (HF) – shallow to medium hardened depth, fine profiles, gears, pins and edges where a thinner hard layer is needed.

• Medium frequency (MF) – greater hardened depth, heavier cross-sections (shafts, levers) where a robust layer and deeper heat penetration are required.

We set the frequency and parameters according to the drawing, geometry and target hardened depth.

Typical parts and materials

Parts: gears, shafts, cams, pins, seats, raceways and functional surfaces requiring local hardness.
Steels: C45E, 42CrMo4 and other structural grades; depending on the function of the part, also selected case-hardening steels after carburizing.

How we proceed

1. Consultation and design – we review the drawing, target hardness (e.g. HRC), required hardened depth and the marking of hardened / unhardened zones.

2. Choice of technology – HF or MF induction, choice of inductor and setting of power/time.

3. Induction heating + polymer quenching – uniform cooling and stable dimensions.

4. Tempering after hardening – dimensional stabilization and fine-tuning of the balance between hardness and toughness.

5. Quality inspection – hardness measurement and, as required, verification of the hardened depth in our laboratory; final inspection report.

What we need for an accurate quotation

• drawing marking the surfaces to be hardened, the required hardness and hardened depth

• material (steel grade) and quantity (pieces/batches)

• information on previous/subsequent operations (machining, grinding, assembly) and the required reports