Induction Services

Overview
Induction Annealing is a metal heat treatment in which a metal material is exposed to an elevated temperature for an extended time and then slowly cooled. Annealing heat treatments are largely characterized by induced microstructural changes which are ultimately responsible for altering the material's mechanical properties. The ultimate goal of this process is to reduce the hardness of the metal and improve its ductility.


Annealing specifically refers to the process of bringing the material to its softest possible point.  A tempering process softens the metal but not to the full extent possible. The degree of temper depends on the material, the maximum temperature reached and the length of the cool down time.

Process or Stress Relief Annealing is used to negate the effects of cold work; that is, to soften and increase the ductility of a previously strain-hardened metal. Internal stresses may develop as a result of plastic deformation processes such as machining or grinding, non-uniform cooling in a welding or casting process, or a phase transformation. Distortion and warping may occur if the internal stresses are not removed. Annealing will eliminate these stresses when the part is heated to the recommended temperature, held there long enough, and slowly cooled to room temperature.

Using Induction Annealing
Modern induction heating provides many advantages over other heating methods and is commonly used for annealing applications. Heating through induction provides reliable, repeatable, non-contact and energy-efficient heat in a minimal amount of time. Solid state systems are capable of heating very small areas within precise production tolerances, without disturbing individual metallurgical characteristics.

Induction can be used for either surface or through heating; case annealing is possible depending on time, temperature and the material's characteristics.

Closed loop control, through the use of an optical pyrometer or other temperature sensing device, can provide constant heat with a tolerance as low as 3°C at 700°C. Induction heating also ideal for in-line production processes because of its ability to produce repeatable, rapid and accurate heating cycles.

Zion's induction services include: 

• Induction Heating
• Induction Hardening
• Induction Tempering
• Induction Brazing
• Induction Annealing

REQUEST A QUOTE NOW!!!  Please take a "virtual tour" of our plant. When next your travel plans permit, why not stop by and see us at any one of three locations. We would be happy to take the time to give you a tour.

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  Zion Industries Inc. is a member of the Metal Treating Institute.