Linde LLC, Bridgewater, N.J., reports that the quality of heat treated metal parts can be improved by increasing the circulation of furnace atmospheres with technology that does not require fans, which can cause uneven convection. Specific advantages of advanced mixing and control technology apply, depending on the type of furnace.
Overall, Linde’s atmosphere control systems yield benefits across a variety of heat treatment furnaces, including better atmosphere mixing and control, reduced soot formation, and greater unit productivity.
Continuous furnaces: Potential of 10% higher productivity coinciding with increased heat transfer when the gas injector is placed at the unit inlet. Up to 3% increased productivity in the cooling zone. Better burn-off of oil and lubricant residue at the front of the furnace. Quicker conditioning when atmospheres are switched.
Pit furnaces: More uniform heating and carburizing, resulting in up to 20% more efficient use of furnace space and potential gains in productivity. Up to three times longer furnace-lid life due to reduced corrosion levels.
Rotary retort furnaces: Up to 20% higher output when working with bulk materials due to deeper gas penetration. Longer retort life, increased throughput, and minimal formation of soft spots.
