Process Innovations: Lower Pressure Vacuum Carburizing and Vacuum Nitriding

Chicago, Illinois - Low Pressure Vacuum Carburizing (LPVC) is a specialized, highly technical process pioneered by Solar Atmospheres designed to increase fatigue life and improve wear properties of your parts.  The case hardened surface is supported by a ductile, shock-absorbing core capable of withstanding high load bearing applications.  LPVC produces a uniform, high-quality case with minimized distortion and absence of Intergranular Oxidation (IGO), reducing or eliminating expensive post heat treating machining operations.

Vacuum nitriding services from Solar Atmospheres can significantly increase the fatigue strength and service life of your parts.  Benefits include case depths up to 0.025” and improved wear and anti-galling properties due to a 40 – 70% increase in surface hardness.  Corrosion resistance is increased through nitrogen-enrichment.  A controlled low processing temperature of 700°F – 1200°F preserves the mechanical properties of the base material and minimizes distortion of the finished parts.

About the author
Tim Steber began his career as a machinist and pursued his degree in Mechanical Technology while working. He served as a design engineer for aseptic packaging equipment, and later with Vacuum Furnace Systems designing vacuum furnace hot zones, furnace chambers, water systems, and inert gas quench systems.  He is currently regional sales manager for Solar Atmospheres, a quality driven vacuum heat treater.  

Tim served as Chair of the Philadelphia Chapter ASM International, and currently on Chapter Council through the national office based in Cleveland, Ohio.  He was also an Adjunct Lecturer at his local community college. 

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