Effect of N2-assisted induction hardening on oxide scale and dimensional stability of SAE 1050 CV joint outer rings
Mauro das Neves Dias; Eduardo Luis Schneider; Manoel Leandro Ribeiro Correa; Diego da Silva Martin Tassoni; Samaris Kern Silva; Robison Mick de Oliveira
Abstract
Induction hardening is widely used for automotive steel components requiring high surface hardness and dimensional precision; however, heating in air promotes oxide scale formation, which may impair surface quality and dimensional control. In this study, the effect of localized nitrogen (N2) shielding on scale formation during induction hardening of SAE 1050 constant velocity (CV) joint outer rings was evaluated. Nitrogen flow rates of 50, 71, 86, and 103 l/min were compared with the conventional condition without N2 addition. Microstructure, oxide scale thickness, hardness profile, and dimensional variation were analyzed after quenching and tempering. The results showed that N2 significantly reduced oxide scale thickness, from about 8.8 µm in the conventional condition to about 0.9-1.6 µm in the higher-flow conditions, while preserving martensitic microstructure and hardness response. Dimensional variation was also reduced, with contactangle deviation decreasing from about 9.2% to 3.6%. A practical saturation effect was observed above 71 l/min. The results demonstrate that localized N2 shielding is an effective process-control strategy to reduce oxidation and improve dimensional stability during induction hardening of automotive components.
Keywords
Referências
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Submetido em:
06/04/2026
Aceito em:
19/09/2026
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