Innovative Steam Treatment, Superior Results.

Vulcan Thermal is a leader in the field of steam treatment. With over 35 years of experience Vulcan remains the largest commercial steam treater in the United States. Vulcan Thermal’s professional steam treating services enhance the durability, performance, and longevity of your parts. The steam treatment of powdered metal is a surface conditioning process that involves exposing sintered metal parts to steam in a controlled environment. This treatment is commonly applied to ferrous-based powdered metal components to improve their surface properties.

Process Overview:

1. Steam Environment

  • The parts are placed in a chamber where they are exposed to steam at temperatures typically between 500°C and 600°C (932°F to 1112°F). This creates an oxidative environment around the part.

2. Reaction

  • The high-temperature steam reacts with the surface of the powdered metal, causing controlled oxidation. For iron-based components, the steam reacts with the iron
    to form a layer of magnetite (Fe₃O₄) or other iron oxides.

3. Cooling

  • After the desired time in the steam, the parts are cooled to room temperature.

Benefits of Steam Treatment:

  • Increased Water Resistance: The oxide layer formed on the surface acts as a protective barrier, enhancing wear resistance.
  • Improved Corrosion Resistance: The oxidized surface reduces the material’s susceptibility to rust and corrosion in specific environments.
  • Reduced Porosity: Steam treatment helps seal surface pores in sintered components, making them less permeable to fluids.

  • Dimensional Stability: The process stabilizes the part dimensions by relieving residual stresses and creating a hardened outer layer.

  • Enhanced Surface Finish: The resulting oxide coating often improves the aesthetic appearance and provides a darker, matte finish.

Applications:

Steam treatment is widely used in industries where powdered metal components are subjected to wear and corrosion. Common applications include:

  • Automotive Components (e.g., gears, sprockets)
  • Tools and Fasteners
  • Machinery Parts in Harsh Environments
  • Lawn & Garden

This treatment adds significant value to sintered parts by extending their functional life and improving performance.

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