Correct spelling for the English word "Carburizing" is [kˈɑːbɪɹˌa͡ɪzɪŋ], [kˈɑːbɪɹˌaɪzɪŋ], [k_ˈɑː_b_ɪ_ɹ_ˌaɪ_z_ɪ_ŋ] (IPA phonetic alphabet).
Carburizing is a metallurgical process used to alter the surface properties of a metal object. It involves introducing carbon into its outer layer through prolonged exposure to a carbon-rich environment. This technique is primarily employed to increase the hardness, strength, and wear resistance of the metal.
During the carburizing process, the metal is heated in a furnace at temperatures ranging from 850 to 950 degrees Celsius. The equipment used for carburizing can include sealed boxes, vacuum chambers, or even a controlled atmosphere with hydrocarbon-rich gases like methane or propane. The carbon atoms from the gas diffuse into the metal surface, penetrating the microstructure and forming iron carbides. This leads to a high-carbon concentration near the surface, creating a hardened layer.
The carburized layer typically possesses superior properties due to increased carbon content. This results in improved resistance against surface wear, fatigue, and galling. After carburizing, the metal can undergo further heat treatment techniques such as quenching and tempering to achieve the desired combination of hardness and toughness.
Carburizing finds significant application in industries that require durable components, such as automotive, aerospace, and machinery manufacturing. Common carburized parts include gears, bearings, camshafts, and crankshafts.
Overall, carburizing is a heat treatment process that facilitates the creation of a hardened surface on metallic objects through the introduction of carbon. It enhances resistance to wear and tear, making the treated components suitable for demanding applications that require superior strength and durability.
The word "carburizing" is derived from the noun "carburet" or "carburetted", which originally referred to a compound formed by combining carbon with another element. This term dates back to the late 18th century and is derived from the French word "carbure" and the Latin word "carbo", both meaning "carbon". Over time, the verb form "carburize" was formed, which specifically refers to the process of enriching or saturating a substance with carbon, especially in the case of metal to enhance its hardness or strength.