As we all know, the higher the density of iron-based powder metallurgy, the better the strength, but not all products are suitable for high density. The density of iron-based powder metallurgy is generally 5.8g/cm3-7.3g/cm3, which is determined by the use and structure of the product.
In most industries, the density of iron-based powder metallurgy gears is 6.8g/cm3. If necessary, imported powder can be used as raw material or nickel powder can be added to increase the density, up to 7.3g/cm3. The density of iron-based powder metallurgy structural parts depends on the structure. For example, some products with complex or relatively thin structures are difficult to compress, so the density is relatively low and the strength is not high. This is also a defect of the powder metallurgy process.
In addition, there are subsequent treatment processes that can improve the hardness of powder metallurgy parts to a certain extent.
- Carburizing treatment: the same as the carburizing treatment of ordinary machined gears, iron-based powder metallurgy gears currently use carbonitriding, integrated quenching treatment, and the hardness range is the same as above.
- Surface water vapor treatment: In a high temperature environment, the water vapor reacts with Fe on the surface of the gear to form a dense substance Fe3O4. Fe3O4 has a higher hardness, which can increase the wear resistance and surface hardness of iron-based powder metallurgy gears.
