Thermex Metal Treating Ltd., Edmonton, is expanding its capacity with the purchase of a Seco Warwick gas nitriding system with vertical pit-style loading and proprietary ZeroFlow control technology. This new system features precise control of the gas nitriding process by using continuous in-process atmosphere analysis to provide ongoing feedback and information. This allows for close control of properties such as case depth and compound (white) layer formation, including control of the thickness and phase of the white layer. A key feature of this new system is a significant reduction in ammonia gas consumption, which leads to reduced emissions.
The work zone size is 39 inches diameter and 75 inches deep. A maximum gross weight of 6600 pounds can be processed in a load.
ZeroFlow control is based on nitriding with a single-component atmosphere – raw ammonia (NH3). The adjustment of nitriding atmosphere chemical composition, and therefore the control of nitriding potential, is done only by analyzing and metering ammonia into the furnace. The ZeroFlow method is characterized by much lower consumption and emission of gases, and it requires a simpler control system, while allowing for forming the hardened layer phase structure with the same precision as processes with more complex two-component atmospheres.
Thermex offers a wide range of ferrous metal heat treating processes and services in Western Canada from its base in Edmonton.
The purchase of this state-of-the-art equipment is in keeping with the company’s ongoing commitment to continuous improvement, integration of new technology, and high quality customer service. According to Thermex president Norm Hanson, “Combined with Seco Warwick’s R&D testing capabilities and its experience in gas nitriding, we felt this was our best option to offer precise nitriding solutions for our customers and our large load requirements.”
