Title: Elimination of straightening operation in induction hardening of automotive camshafts

Authors: Gary Doyon; Valery Rudnev; John Maher; Randall Minnick; Glen Desmier

Addresses: Inductoheat Inc., An Inductotherm Group Company 32251 N. Avis Dr., Madison Heights, Michigan 48071, USA ' Inductoheat Inc., An Inductotherm Group Company 32251 N. Avis Dr., Madison Heights, Michigan 48071, USA ' Inductoheat Inc., An Inductotherm Group Company 32251 N. Avis Dr., Madison Heights, Michigan 48071, USA ' Inductoheat Inc., An Inductotherm Group Company 32251 N. Avis Dr., Madison Heights, Michigan 48071, USA ' Inductoheat Inc., An Inductotherm Group Company 32251 N. Avis Dr., Madison Heights, Michigan 48071, USA

Abstract: Recent technological breakthroughs in induction surface hardening of camshafts dramatically reduce their distortion. Achieving almost undetectable camshaft distortion and, in many cases, an elimination of an entire straightening operation is the result of three factors: an ability to form a true uniform hardness pattern, minimisation of maximum pick temperature and avoidance of applying any pressure/force during hardening. Other benefits of utilising the SHarP-C^TM Technology in recent installations have proven to produce not only superior straightness but also better metallurgical properties of induction hardened lobes and bearings. This advanced technology also minimises energy consumption and substantially increases inductor life.

Keywords: camshaft hardening; coils; camshaft distortion; straightening; inductor lifetime; heat treatment; cracking; induction hardening; automotive camshafts; straightness; metallurgical properties; lobes; bearings; energy consumption; automobile industry.

DOI: 10.1504/IJMMP.2016.078032

International Journal of Microstructure and Materials Properties, 2016 Vol.11 No.1/2, pp.119 - 133

Received: 03 Mar 2015
Accepted: 23 Jun 2015
Published online: 31 Jul 2016 *

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