Boronizing
Boronizing (also known as boriding) is a thermo-chemical surface hardening process in which boron atoms are diffused into the surface of a work piece to form complex borides (i.e. – FeB/FeB2) with the base metal. There is no mechanical interface between the complex borides and the substrate as this is a true diffusion process. The resulting case layer has a hard, slippery surface capable of performing at higher temperatures than most surface treatments. Practically any ferrous material can be boronized, as well as many Ni, Ti & Co alloys.
Challenges
This needs to be done inside an alloy retort inside the kiln. Typically the process is run under Argon.
Market
Wear resistant components.
Kilns
Any round kiln like a Jupiter. Special alloy retorts can be provided.
