Frequently Asked Questions about Heat Treating Steel

We here at Hi-Tech Steel Treating often get asked the same questions about heat treating steel in Tennessee. So we’re going to covered some of the most frequently asked questions and give you more information about the heat treating steel process and how it can benefit you.

Can you hit a metal with another metal to determine hardness?

Depending on the type of metal, yes, you can. For example, a hard aluminum is more like a soft steel. You can try to use a scratch test, especially if you purchase a set of graduated files, which are specifically designed to test the steel’s (or other metal’s) hardness. 

What happens when the metal’s toughness is tempered down with hardness?

When the metal’s toughness is tempered, the toughness is not significantly affected by the tempering process. But you can improve the toughness through heat treating steel by using a lower hardening temperature and then cooling it completely to room temperature between the tempers. This will ensure a complete conversion.

Why are metals like steel, carbon and iron so hard?

The internal crystal structures are the cause. Non-ferrous metals can only be hardened through hammering, bending and rolling. But they are softened through the heat treating steel process called annealing. Steel’s hardness is determined by its carbon content. When you are heat treating steel, you have to heat it to a medium red color, or to just above the point where the steel becomes magnetic, and then dip it into water, air or oil.

Can you use a scratch test on glass, stainless steel or carbide?

You can, but it’s not as dependable. There are other, more reliable ways of testing these materials’ hardness.

When you need heat treating steel in Tennessee, call Hi-Tech Steel Treating, Inc. at 1-800-835-8294 or Contact Us.