What is the difference between tempering and quenching:
Jun 05, 2024| 1, Definition of Quenching and Tempering
Quenching is a heat treatment process that changes the internal structure and properties of a metal material by rapidly cooling it after heating it to a certain temperature. Tempering, on the other hand, is a process of heating the steel to a certain temperature after quenching, holding it for a certain period of time, and then cooling it. It is generally hoped that the hardness and toughness of the material can be adjusted through this process.
2, Differences and similarities between quenching and tempering
1. Different technological processes
The quenching process is to quickly immerse the material in water or oil after reaching a certain heating temperature, and rapidly reduce the temperature of the material to room temperature. Tempering, on the other hand, involves heating the material to a specific temperature after quenching, followed by cooling treatment.
2. Different purposes
The main purpose of quenching is to improve the hardness and strength of the material, achieving the maximum hardness and strength of the material. The main purpose of tempering is to enable the material to maintain both a certain level of hardness and toughness.
3. Different temperature parameters
The quenching temperature is generally extremely high, preferably around 250 ℃; The tempering temperature is generally lower, with a suitable range of 150-250 ℃.
4. Different shapes and types of workpieces
Quenching is generally only applicable to certain specific shaped workpieces, such as cutting edges, gears, etc; Tempering is suitable for heat treatment of most metal materials.
5. Differences in repetitive processing
Quenching is a very sudden heating method that generates significant stress. Tempering, on the other hand, involves progressive heating, which can effectively ensure the repetitive processing quality of the steel.