Oil & Specialized Quenching
Controlled Quenching for Consistent Results
Offering batch, press, plug, and roll quenching services, SST is an industry leader in distortion control for components where dimensional stability is critical.
Oil quenching rapidly cools steel components after austenitizing to achieve peak hardness, strength, and wear resistance. Steel components are heated to their specified austenitizing temperature in a controlled furnace atmosphere, then immersed in quench oil. The cooling rate transforms the steel’s microstructure, and the use of oil (compared to water) reduces thermal stresses and lowers the chance of warping or other abnormalities. Depending on part geometry and specified requirements, press, plug, or roll quenching may be deemed the best fit for the project.
Quenching Methods
Batch Quenching
Free quenching of parts that require less distortion control based on part geometry, material, and stock. This method is ideal for high-volume production of parts that do not require individual fixturing.
Press Fixture Quenching
Best for maintaining part flatness and other critical characteristics. Parts are held in a controlled position within a fixture during quenching to help reduce distortion and maintain dimensional requirements.
Plug Quenching
Plug quenching uses an internal plug to provide support during quenching, helping preserve the part’s shape, straightness, and dimensional requirements.
Roll Quenching
Typically used for long, cylindrical bars, parts are placed on rollers and continuously rotated during quenching to minimize warpage and help maintain straightness and provide distortion control measures.