Modeling and Sensitivity Study of the Induction Hardening Process

Abstract

Induction heating is a case hardening process used to improve performance of machine components by producing a hard martensitic microstructure and high compressive residual stresses at the surface layer. A reliable numerical model able to predict the hardness profile would shorten process development. However, the accuracy and the efficiency of the model are restricted by the coupling complexity between the electromagnetic and thermal fields, and the nonlinear behaviour of the material properties. The paper analyzes the sensitivity of the material properties values and of the finite element meshing onto the predictive modeling of the case hardening profiles. The material used is SAE-4340 low-alloy steel. The simulations are done using a computer-modeling software (Comsol) and the sensitivity analysis is conducted by using an experimental design method.