Quenching
Quenching is a treatment process which involves soaking the metal at a temperature higher than the recrystallization phase, followed by rapid cooling or quenching in order to achieve desired properties. Quenching is mainly done to increase the toughness of both metals and non-metals.
The following media are commonly used for quenching
- Air (Gases such as Argon, Nitrogen)
- Liquid polymers
- Oil
- Water
Advantages of Quenching
- Materials that are quenched are more durable and possess high tensile strength.
- Time involved is less and efficiency is more compared to other heat treatment processes.
- Relatively easy and simple process to perform.