Patent Number:
6,165,597
Title:
Selective case hardening processes at low temperature
Abstract:
A selectively case hardened steel article by low temperature carburization includes a body made of a chromium bearing nickel or ferrous based alloy (for example, stainless steel), a first portion of the body having a first hardness characteristic, and a second portion of the body having a second hardness characteristic; the second portion being less than the entire body and substantially free of carbides. One method for selective case hardening by low temperature carburization includes the steps of applying a carbon blocking mask over surface areas of the article that are not going to be carburized; activating those surface areas that are to be carburized; diffusing carbon into the activated surface areas at a temperature below which carbides readily form; and removing the carbon blocking mask.
Inventors:
Williams; Peter C. (Cleveland Heights, OH), Marx; Steven V. (University Heights, OH)
Assignee:
Swagelok Company
International Classification:
C23C 8/04 (20060101); B32B 007/02 ()
Expiration Date:
12/26/2017