Nitrided

Nitrided describes a surface-hardening heat treatment process applied to ferrous metals, particularly steel and cast iron, where nitrogen is diffused into the surface. This enhances the material's wear resistance, fatigue strength, and corrosion resistance. The process typically involves heating the metal in an atmosphere containing nitrogen, such as ammonia gas, at elevated temperatures for a defined duration. The nitrogen atoms react with the metallic elements, forming hard, nitrogen-containing compounds, thus creating a hardened case on the surface. This improves their engineering properties significantly.

Nitrided meaning with examples

• The manufacturer nitrided the gears to extend their lifespan and reduce friction, essential for demanding operational environments. This created a super-hard surface, allowing the gears to withstand the constant stresses of high-speed operation. It was vital in the automobile's drivetrain, ensuring smooth and reliable power transmission.
• The tool steel was nitrided to increase its resistance to abrasion during metal cutting operations. After the high-temperature gas diffusion, the hardened surface significantly extended the lifespan of the cutting tools, allowing for more precision manufacturing before requiring replacement. This was essential for the machining process.
• To combat the corrosive effects of exposure to seawater, the piston rods were nitrided. This created a protective layer that inhibits rust and general degradation of the equipment, ensuring they could withstand the harsh marine conditions for extended periods. This was part of a greater effort to minimize maintenance.
• The aircraft engine's critical components were nitrided to improve their fatigue life and ability to withstand extreme temperatures. This application of a case-hardening process significantly improved the safety and longevity of the engine under duress. This was a key strategy when designing jet engines.