An intensive quenching (IQ) process is an environmentally friendly method of hardening steel parts. Digitally controlled, IQ employs highly agitated and directed water flow as the quenchant. An extremely high cooling rate applied uniformly over the entire part surface area induces high surface compressive stresses which prevents part distortion and cracking while forming a very fine microstructure. The fine microstructure results in better mechanical properties compared to properties imparted by conventional oil or polymer quenching. The improved mechanical properties enable engineers to design stronger steel parts for higher power density mechanical systems often using steels containing a less amount of alloying elements or using less expensive plain carbon steels. A broad and deep body of knowledge documents IQ’s ability to tailor a steel component’s microstructure to improve steel parts mechanical properties and performance. A sampling of data will be presented including surface and core hardness, tensile, yield and impact strength, elongation and reduction in area, residual surface compressive stresses for through hardened steels and the carburized grades. IQ systems can be readily “dropped in” to existing steel processing facilities or integrated into next generation heating and cooling systems through teamed relationships with equipment makers and part manufacturers seeking a sustainable future.

The very nature of global sourcing means that components must carry clear and detailed specifications for material, heat treatment, and test methods. Qualified global heat treat facilities can achieve good control of not only the common features such as surface and gradient hardness, but also of microstructure, core hardness, residual stress, and other critical metallurgical parameters. This paper will discuss a new concept for material specifications and more detailed heat treatment specifications for the global marketplace.