Thermochemical Treatment
Thermochemical treatment combines heat treatment with chemical additives to modify the edge layer. This improves properties such as strength and corrosion protection.
Physicochemical Mechanism of Action
Thermochemical treatment involves adding chemical elements (such as silicon or titanium) to a metal workpiece during heat treatment. These additions react with the metal and change its chemical composition in the surface layer.
Metallurgical Relevance & Welding Risks
This treatment increases strength and improves corrosion protection of the weld. However, incorrect application can lead to over- or under-dosing, resulting in unwanted properties such as coarser grain structure or increased hardness.
Workshop Practice & Action Guidelines
Use the correct amount of chemical additives and precisely control the temperature and time of the heat treatment. A typical addition of 0.3 % to 0.1 silicon for stiff steels is common. When in doubt about exact dosing, always consult the manufacturer's protocol.