Localized induction heating for residual stress optimization
US8075714B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 22, 2008 |
| Grant date | Dec 13, 2011 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 17, 2029 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T428/12965
- WIPO fieldMaterials, metallurgy
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
An apparatus for the heat-treating of a heat-hardenable steel cruciform article having a weld seam includes a heating element to heat the weld seam to a point that an austenitic transformation occurs, and a quenching chamber to cool the weld seam, causing the formation of Martensite and an associated expansion. The quenching is rapid since slow quenching may allow a crystalline phase other than martensite to form. The apparatus may comprise rollers operable to convey the welded cruciform article through the apparatus at a speed such that the weld seam is subjected to heating for a predetermined heat time sufficient to cause a formation of martensite there within, and such that the heated portion reaches the quenching chamber and is quenched to create a substantial amount of martensite, e.g., an amount sufficient to cause expansion of the part.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.