Most metals are soluble in one another in the liquid state. Therefore the primary metal (the one which will dominate the composition of the mixed metals) is melted and the other metals are mixed into the primary metal. This is simply called alloying. The primary molten metal will absorb the secondary metal into solution, much like adding sugar into coffee. A further definition of an alloy would be a mixture of metallic and non-metallic elements that are in solution with the primary metal.
The process of solution treating requires that the alloy be heated up to an appropriate temperature that will allow all of the added (now in solution) alloying metals to be in solution in the primary metal. Once the alloy metal has reached the “solutionizing temperature”, the alloying elements are ‘frozen’ in the solution by cooling rapidly from the “solutionizing temperature” down to room temperature. The metal is now in its softest condition.
The metal now requires strengthening. This is accomplished by time. Some alloy metals will age naturally at room temperature. Some alloy metals will require (because of expediency) strengthening by accelerating the procedure. This is done through artificial aging or artificial strengthening, which requires the alloy metal to be raised to a specific temperature for a specific amount of time.
Tensile strength is the ability of a metal to resist being pulled apart by opposing forces acting in a straight line. Any metal part or component that must perform well in highly rigorous conditions, or despite being under repetitive strain, will benefit from having the highest tensile strength possible. For example, the metal in cables and other equipment used in the construction industry to lift heavy loads require a high tensile strength.
Quality Steel Treating’s heat treating services help companies to create tools and dies that not only perform to top standards, but that also resist cracking and wear during repeated use. We are proficient in applying nitriding, bright hardening and other…
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Whether your products are found in the deepest recesses of the ocean, or on a fishing boat in a recreational lake, Quality Steel Treating will ensure your metal products are treated to withstand the corrosive conditions of the marine environment….
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We know that the magnetic shielding our customers produce is comprised of highly expensive alloys and metal components. That’s one reason our metallurgists and craftsmen practice a get-the-job-right-the-first-time philosophy. Our ability to deliver consistently flawless treatments is why we’re a…
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At Quality Steel Treating, we provide heat treating and brazing services that will ensure your products are built to last. From leak-tight joints to clean and bright assemblies, our staff is focused on achieving metallurgic consistency and delivering quick turnarounds….
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At Quality Steel Treating, we are proud of our ability to provide precision work to the most exacting specifications. Our heat treatment services enhance high-tech components, while adhering to the strict treatment requirements and assembly specifications demanded by the computer…
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