Fixture and method for selectively quenching a predetermined area of a workpiece
US6174389A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 17, 1999 |
| Grant date | Jan 16, 2001 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 17, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC C)Chemistry; Metallurgy
- CPC primaryC21D2221/00
- WIPO fieldMaterials, metallurgy
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
An apparatus and method for excluding specific areas of a workpiece from quenching during a heat treat process. A workpiece, having preselected areas to be quenched, is positioned in a manner so that quench sprays are aimed toward the surface to be quenched. The area to be excluded from the quench is protected by a shroud, and steam is forced under the shroud during the quenching operation. Steam pressure within the shroud is maintained at a pressure sufficient to prevent the quench media from passing through a sealed edge of the shroud. The steam has a temperature sufficient to prevent a sudden drop in the workpiece temperature in the area protected from the quench media.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.