Precipitation Hardening (Age Hardening)

Precipitation hardening is used to increase the strength of certain alloys such as aluminum alloys, nickel-based alloys, and some stainless steels. The process consists of three steps:

  1. Solution heat treatment
  2. Quenching
  3. Aging (natural or artificial)

Fine precipitate particles form inside the metal, preventing dislocation movement and increasing strength.

Temperature Range:

  • Solution treatment: 450โ€“550ยฐC
  • Aging: 100โ€“200ยฐC

Furnace Types Used:

  • Electric chamber furnace
  • Vacuum furnace
  • Controlled atmosphere furnace

Applications:
Aircraft parts, structural components, pressure vessels