As described by Britannica in their article “Treating of steel,” steel undergoes various heat-treating processes to achieve desired microstructures and properties. One such process is normalizing, where steel is heated above the G-S-K line, transforming its microstructure into austenite before cooling. Annealing, another crucial treatment, enhances steel ductility by precipitating carbides and forming large ferrite crystals. This process is meticulously controlled, with factors like temperature, holding time, and cooling rate tailored to the steel’s composition and size. Specialized in optimizing these processes, Advanced Technical Products ensures superior quality and performance in treated steel products.
In annealing, steel is often subjected to inert or reducing atmospheres to prevent oxidation. Batch annealing involves enclosing steel coils in heat-resistant covers, while continuous-annealing furnaces utilize gas-fired radiation tubes for precise heating and cooling. Continuous-annealing lines, which can stretch over 200 meters, offer operational efficiency with uniform strip properties.
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