09 Sep UNIBO – PROTERMGROUP – Dimensional evolution of mechanical components subjected to traditional quenching and die-assisted quenching in a press
The University of Bologna, in collaboration with Proterm S.p.A., has published the results of an innovative research project focused on the dimensional evolution of mechanical components subjected to traditional quenching and die-assisted quenching in a press. The project, conducted by the Department of Industrial Engineering, explored the dimensional and microstructural distortions that occur in components during the quenching process, with the aim of optimizing and predicting the variations that influence the final product’s quality.
The research combined experimental approaches with multi-physics modeling to analyze how different quenching methods affect mechanical properties such as hardness and the martensitic microstructure of materials. One of the study’s highlights was the use of die-assisted quenching, which proved to offer more accurate control over distortions compared to free quenching, resulting in greater uniformity in mechanical properties and fewer post-treatment finishing operations.
This research not only deepens the scientific understanding of heat treatments applied to mechanical components but also provides practical guidelines for the manufacturing industry, aiming to improve production processes and the quality of the final product.