Numerical simulation of superficial induction hardening process

A computer simulation of the superficial induction hardening process has been presented basing on a worked out model which takes into account electromagnetic and thermal fields coupling, connections between temperature changes and phase transitions and nonlinearity of material properties, in order to obtain the desired properties of the end product. The commercial computer calculation programmes based on the finite elements method Flux, TTSteel, Metal7 have been applied for hardening process simulation, complemented by the user's own procedures taking into consideration the specific character of the process. The results obtained have been experimentally verified. The method presented for material final properties forecasting enables the selection of electrical parameters, inductor's shape and cooling method and can be really helpful in design and proper heat treatment.