Titanium Plasma Nitriding

Plasma nitriding is a surface hardening process that is also used for titanium alloys. Nitrogen is introduced into the surface layer in a plasma environment, creating a hard, wear-resistant layer. However, process control is tricky because layer formation strongly depends on surface cleanliness and the exact gas composition. If you don't hit the parameters right, you either get a layer that's too thin or you risk spalling due to high residual stresses. Before nitriding, the part must be absolutely grease-free and dry, and after the process it should cool slowly to prevent cracking.