This paper highlights the features of a revolutionary new Hardening and Tempering system introduced and in operation in the automotive industry. The distinguishing feature is that both the part and the coils remain stationary during the hardening and tempering process. There is also no contact between the part and the inductor coil. The Methodology evolved around improving the process while reducing the Lifecycle costs of the machine. The results of the process are significant reduction in TIR (Total Indicated Runout), superior microstructure, minimal distortion in the order of microns, improvements in hardness patterns, coil life, equipment Reliability and Maintainability and a significant reduction in floor space requirement. It also aids the downstream operations in the production line which allows for eliminating the need for straightening and excess grind stock removal. Six such systems are currently in operation. Often users focus on the upfront price of a machine and neglect the actual life cycle cost of the machine. A brief discussion is included in this paper to highlight the long-term benefits and savings with this approach.
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