When metal components are exposed to high temperatures during heat treatment, they are vulnerable to surface degradation. Two of the most common issues are oxidation and decarburization, both of which can significantly impact material performance.

At Advanced Technical Products, we work with manufacturers to protect critical components during high-temperature processing. Through our industrial coating services, we provide solutions that preserve surface integrity and improve final product quality.

What Happens During Heat Treatment

Heat treatment is used to improve the mechanical properties of metal, such as hardness and strength. However, the same conditions that enhance these properties can also cause unwanted surface reactions.

When exposed to oxygen at high temperatures, metal surfaces oxidize, forming scale. At the same time, carbon within the steel may diffuse out of the surface, leading to decarburization.

The Impact of Oxidation

Oxidation creates a layer of scale that must often be removed through additional processing. This can result in:

·         increased manufacturing costs

·         loss of dimensional accuracy

·         reduced surface quality

The Impact of Decarburization

Decarburization reduces the carbon content at the surface of the metal. This leads to:

·         decreased hardness

·         reduced wear resistance

·         compromised mechanical performance

For components that rely on surface strength, this can be a critical issue.

How Protective Coatings Work

Protective coatings act as a barrier between the metal surface and the surrounding environment. During heat treatment, these coatings prevent oxygen from reaching the surface and limit carbon loss.

This barrier helps maintain the intended properties of the material while reducing the need for post-processing.

Benefits of Using Protective Coatings

·         preservation of surface hardness

·         reduction in scale formation

·         improved dimensional stability

·         lower post-processing costs

Through our industrial coating services, we help manufacturers achieve consistent, high-quality results during heat treatment.