Endothermic gas generators provide little flexibility to tailor the atmosphere for highest quality results. However, endothermic gas can be blended with nitrogen to adjust the atmosphere composition based on the specific alloy being treated. For example, it may be desirable to reduce the dewpoint of the endo, increasing the reducing potential for a brighter finish. Alternatively, the carbon potential of the atmosphere can range from neutral to carburizing based on the material being treated to range.
Significant improvements have been achieved in part quality by the dilution of endogas with nitrogen resulting in:
- Flexible atmosphere adjustment: from decarburizing to neutral to carburizing atmosphere compositions
- Reduced variations in physical properties, e.g., dimensional changes, surface hardness
- Improved microstructural homogeneity and less surface decarburization
- Use for bright annealing
- Low investment and installation costs
- Continuous control via atmosphere analyzers and cloud connection
- Safety features in accordance with EN 746-3
- Design in accordance with ATEX
