Nitrocarburizing

Nitrocarburizing is a process for surface hardening of materials. The surface layer of the material is enriched with nitrogen and carbon through thermochemical diffusion.

Nitriding Vs Nitrocarburizing

Nitriding deposits only nitrogen in the surface layer, while nitrocarburizing deposits both nitrogen and carbon. Nitriding is used on various alloys including ferrous, titanium, aluminum, and molybdenum, whereas nitrocarburizing is specifically used on ferrous alloys.

Carbo Nitriding Vs Nitrocarburizing

Nitrocarburizing introduces more nitrogen to the metal than carbo nitriding, resulting in shallower case depths. This process improves surface properties such as wear resistance and fatigue strength.

 Applications

A hardness range of 300–1300 Vickers is obtained through nitrocarburizing, depending on the steel alloy used. Examples of applications include cylinders, pistons, gears, crankshafts, cams, and barrels.

 Advantages of Nitrocarburizing for Certain Applications

• Nitrocarburizing provides abrasive wear resistance for surfaces exposed to sand or other abrasives.
• Improves adhesive wear resistance of steel, reducing friction between opposing steel surfaces.
• Enhances corrosion resistance and provides an attractive deep black appearance.