Carbonitriding: High-performance surface treatment
Carbonitriding is an advanced thermochemical process that aims to significantly improve the mechanical properties of carbon steels. Performed in a bath of alkali cyanides and cyanates at a temperature of 560 to 565°C for three hours, this technique incorporates in-situ oxygen blowing to achieve a surface that is hard, adherent, and wear-resistant.
This process generates a surface layer composed of cementite Fe₃C and iron nitride FeN, 10 to 15 microns thick, which remains relatively non-brittle and offers excellent resistance to mechanical stress. A sub-layer several tenths of a millimeter thick, containing iron nitride and nitrogen, reinforces the internal structure of the part.
Benefits
The Benefits of MNI Carbonitriding
Carbonitriding offers numerous benefits for optimizing metal parts:
– Improved friction: Significantly reduced friction between opposing parts.
– Anti-corrosion: Long-lasting protection against harsh environments and chemical attack.
– High-temperature resistance: Maintains performance up to 400°C.
– Hard, thin coating : Homogeneous and dense layer of +/- 20 microns, providing excellent mechanical strength.
– Increased durability: Doubles fatigue resistance and improves surface hardness, particularly in sensitive areas such as welds.
Features
Technical Characteristics of Carbonitriding Coatings
Property | Detail |
Surface Hardness | From 400 to 900 HV1 depending on the steel type |
Coating Thickness | 10 to 15 microns on the surface + a sub-coating of several tenths of a millimeter |
Thermal Resistance | Up to 400°C |
Corrosion Resistance | 100-hour salt spray test (ASTM standard) 17) |
Layer homogeneity | Excellent, even on corners or in holes |
Compatibility | All types of steel |
Typical application
Our carbonitriding coatings are used in many industrial sectors, offering superior performance for parts subjected to high stress:
– Axles and crankshafts: Increased resistance to fatigue and mechanical shock.
– Gears and rollers: Reduced frictional wear and improved longevity.
– Engine sleeves and slideways: Optimized performance in demanding environments.
– Screws and punches: Resistance to impact and repeated stress.
– Light alloy casting molds: Improved resistance to high temperatures and deformation.
– Wheel spindles, axles, and levers: Reduced abrasion and improved robustness.
– Water pump parts: Protection against corrosion and mechanical wear.
Why choose MNI for your carbonitriding treatments?
By using MNI, you benefit from:
– Proven expertise : Expertise in surface treatment processes and materials.
– Rigorous quality control: Each part is inspected to ensure optimal performance.
– Customized solutions: We adapt our processes to the specific needs of your parts.
– Trusted industrial partner: Personalized support to optimize your projects.
Contact us today to learn more about our carbonitriding solutions and get a personalized quote!
