Hierarchical optimization approaches in designing surface hardening induction systems

Induction surface hardening is a quite traditional and well-known process in which a metal part is induction-heated and then quenched. The quenched metal undergoes a martensitic transformation, increasing the hardness and stiffness of the part. The design of a surface hardening system is a challenging task. This paper describes an approach to divide a full problem into simpler ones and to optimize the electrical regime. We compare the effectiveness of using a single-objective rather than a multi-objective optimization approach. (paper)