Increase ductility and workability 

Annealing is a process that softens the metal, causing changes in its strength and hardness. The process is done by heating and maintaining a suitable temperature, followed by controlled cooling. If done correctly, the process increases the ductility of the metal, allowing for an increase in the workability of the material after the annealing process is complete. 

The correct atmosphere is key to a successful and reproducible annealing. The high temperature of annealing may cause oxidation on the metal’s surface, resulting in scale. Scale is a dark, flaky material that forms if the atmosphere is not controlled. The amount of scale that forms also depends on the type of steel you are working with. To reduce or avoid scale formation, you should evaluate your options and decide if treating your parts in a controlled-atmosphere furnace is right for you.

Whether you anneal ferrous or non-ferrous metals, we can provide you with the endothermic gases needed, such as carbon monoxide mixtures, hydrogen, and nitrogen-based systems that can help improve the quality of your results.

If you are looking for high surface quality and a bright finish with no carbon deposits, we offer a nitrogen-based atmosphere system. This system, combined with an external endogas generator gives you the flexibility to create the correct composition to meet your metal requirements. The benefits include a carbon-neutral atmosphere with no decarburization, brighter surface results with no deposits, increased safety by having a nitrogen-based safety purge, and minimized scrap and rework of materials.

Learn more about Linde's other heat treating applications for the transportation industry