Optimization of the lonitriding Process of Stainless Steels

摘要

With the aim of optimizing the nitriding process, experimental studies of plasma nitriding of different Stainless Steels were carried out. The different Stainless Steels included those from the 300,400 and Precipitation Hardened families. The process parameters were varied systematically and their effect on the thickness of the case depth of the nitrided steels were examined using an optical microscope and the Rockwell Hardness test. It was concluded that the inconsistencies in nitriding Stainless Steels are related to the passive layer that is inherent on all Stainless Steels. Experiments were aimed at activating the surface more consistently. Through the analysis of experimental data it was found that an increase in temperature, and the addition of Argon to the standard cleanup gas (Hydrogen) both have positive effects on the nitriding process.