A term typically recognized as referring to a thermal process in which the alloy or component is softened in hardness and mechanical properties by changing its microstructure to a phase softer than the previous phase. Some of the benefits of this process is to stabilize dimensional tolerances, improve machinability, change magnetic or electrical properties, and to improve the ability of the material to be subsequently cold-worked.
When metal has been forged it has undergone tremendous stresses and mechnical deformation. This can be very detrimental to tool life or distortion in subsequent machining operations.
Therm Tech can accomplish solution annealing heat treatment of forgings in open fire, atmosphere or vacuum depending on the material and required surface finish.
Stress relieving is a general term in heat treating describing a wide range of processes. Generally stress relieving involves heating a part to a temperature at which the yield strength is sufficiently low to the point which internal stresses can relieve themselves.