Heat Treatment
In the most general definition, Heat Treatment is the general name of the processes applied to increase the mechanical properties of metals such as hardness, strength, etc. and to make metals more durable. In this process, the microstructure of metals is changed and they gain resistance in terms of durability, corrosion resistance, ductility and temperature. In fact, Heat Treatment, a process we are all familiar with, is a method that has been applied for a very long time. Heat Treatment, which was known to be practical and useful even in ancient times, was applied (even at a very simple level) by old blacksmith masters even when making weapons such as axes, arrowheads and swords. Today, Heat Treatment is carried out with a technique called Carbonization, with much more advanced technology, in atmosphere-controlled furnaces, with appropriate grades for each metal.
What is Heat Treatment?
Contrary to popular belief, Heat Treatment is not only used to harden the metal. It is also included in the Heat Treatment process to give flexibility and softness to the products in line with the wishes and needs. This is why Heat Treatment, although it seems easy as a process, needs a very delicate balance and control. Because after Heat Treatment, the hardness of the metal increases and it becomes more resistant to abrasion. However, the material also becomes more brittle after heat treatment. It is a very delicate process to expose materials with increased brittleness to optimum heating and cooling. For this reason, it is very important to know the optimum temperature, atmospheric pressure and exposure time for the metal used.
Although it varies according to the needs and metals, Heat Treatment basically consists of 4 stages.
"Heating" up to the specified minimum temperature.
"Waiting" at this temperature for as long as necessary.
"Quenching" according to the metal and its need
"Aging"
