Bath Hardening
Bath hardening is heating workpieces in molten salt or lead baths to achieve uniform temperature distribution and prevent oxidation. Quenching is done directly from the bath.
Physical-Chemical Mechanism of Action
Workpieces are heated in molten salt or lead to ensure uniform temperature distribution. The molten metal protects the surface from oxidation and decarburization.
Metallurgical Relevance & Risks in Welding
Insufficient bath hardness can lead to uneven stresses and cracks because the workpiece was not heated uniformly. Excessive bath hardness can cause deformation or excessive hardness of the material.
Workshop Practice & Instructions
Use molten salt or lead for bath hardening. Ensure the workpiece is fully submerged in the bath and the temperature is continuously monitored. The duration of bath hardening depends on the material and the desired hardness.