Electron beam surface hardening

Surface hardening by electron beams permits partial hardening of workpieces and tools with high-speed heating-up and slow-speed cooling-down. Electron beam welding machines used in the GDR at present can be adapted to this purpose without instrumental effort. Two different modes of operation have been applied, especially for two-dimensional hardening of shaft seats. Hardness obtained, hardening depth achieved, and beam parameters applied are discussed taking into account technological requirements and limits