Induction Hardening System Saves Time, Energy

Eldec, a subsidiary of Emag, has developed the Modular Induction (MIND) hardening system for integrating hardening into component production lines. Induction hardening, as opposed to case hardening, heats only the areas of the part that need it, speeding the process and adding flexibility for both large-scale and small-batch gear production, according to the company. Applications include automotive geared elements such as positioning gears, steering pinions, timing chain sprockets, ring gears for bevel gearboxes and steering racks.

The system’s basic components include the machine, power source, inductor, coolant system and automation, with modules available from Eldec for specific applications. For example, the company offers micro-process-controlled medium- and high-frequency generators as well as simultaneous dual frequency (SDF) generators. Medium frequencies penetrate deeper into the gear for hardening the root, while high frequencies heat the tooth tip; SDF uses two different frequencies simultaneously, heating to an even depth and temperature for generating a uniform hardening profile with larger-module gears.

The system can be manually loaded as a stand-alone machine, or loaded by robot in-line as part of a hardening cell within the soft- and hard-machining process line. Two size variations (MIND and MIND-M) are available for various workpiece dimension and hardening profile needs.