{"id":124283,"date":"2022-04-27T13:12:55","date_gmt":"2022-04-27T11:12:55","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.secowarwick.com\/?page_id=124283"},"modified":"2026-04-02T13:55:58","modified_gmt":"2026-04-02T11:55:58","slug":"vacuum-furnaces-for-lpc","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.secowarwick.com\/en\/products\/vacuum-heat-treatment\/vacuum-furnaces-for-lpc\/","title":{"rendered":"Low Pressure Carburizing (LPC), integral Oil or Gas quench vacuum chamber furnaces"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>[et_pb_section fb_built=&#8221;1&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.16&#8243; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.16&#8243; background_size=&#8221;initial&#8221; background_position=&#8221;top_left&#8221; background_repeat=&#8221;repeat&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_column type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.16&#8243; custom_padding=&#8221;|||&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221; custom_padding__hover=&#8221;|||&#8221;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/www.secowarwick.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/ATMOSPHERE-HEAT-slider.jpg&#8221; alt=&#8221;Vacuum furnaces for low pressure carburizing (LPC) and oil or gas quench SECO\/WARWICK &#8221; title_text=&#8221;Vacuum furnaces for low pressure carburizing (LPC) and oil or gas quench SECO\/WARWICK &#8221; align_tablet=&#8221;center&#8221; align_phone=&#8221;&#8221; align_last_edited=&#8221;on|desktop&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.16&#8243; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text module_class=&#8221;p-seco-product-header-text&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.6&#8243; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.16&#8243; custom_margin=&#8221;0px|||&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;0px|||&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_column type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.16&#8243; custom_padding=&#8221;|||&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221; custom_padding__hover=&#8221;|||&#8221;][et_pb_breadcrumbs _builder_version=&#8221;4.10.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][\/et_pb_breadcrumbs][et_pb_text module_class=&#8221;podtytuly&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.6&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h1>CaseMaster Evolution \u2013 double- or\u00a0triple-chamber vacuum furnace<\/h1>\n<h2>Vacuum furnaces for low-pressure carburizing (LPC) and oil quenching or\u00a0high-pressure gas quenching in\u00a0high-volume production.<\/h2>\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">\/<\/span> Design &amp; Purpose:<\/strong><br \/>CaseMaster Evolution double- or\u00a0triple-chamber furnaces are intended for low-pressure carburizing (LPC), low pressure carbonitriding (LPCN) and oil or\u00a0high-pressure gas quenching in\u00a0small, medium and high-volume production.<\/p>\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">\/<\/span> Applications:<\/strong><br \/>This family of vacuum furnaces is dedicated to\u00a0semi-continuous case hardening by\u00a0LPC and oil or\u00a0high-pressure gas quenching, as\u00a0well as\u00a0through hardening. It offers a\u00a0wide alternative to\u00a0atmospheric sealed quench furnaces, continuous lines, and multi-chamber systems.<\/p>\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">\/<\/span> Versatility:<\/strong><br \/>Beyond its core applications, CaseMaster Evolution can be\u00a0used for a\u00a0variety of other heat treatment processes such as\u00a0annealing or\u00a0brazing.<\/p>\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">\/<\/span> Industry Focus:<\/strong><br \/>A\u00a0new generation of sealed quenching solutions, providing an additional option for a\u00a0wide range of LPC applications in\u00a0industries such as\u00a0aerospace, automotive, machine-building, bearings, and commercial heat treatment.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_seco_products product_1_title=&#8221;Low Pressure Carburizing (LPC),<br \/>case and through hardening<br \/>integral oil quench (OQ)<br \/>vacuum multi-chamber furnace&#8221; product_1_src=&#8221;https:\/\/www.secowarwick.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/Case-Master-Evoltion2.jpg&#8221; product_1_alt=&#8221;Low Pressure Carburizing (LPC), case and through hardening integral oil quench (OQ) vacuum multi-chamber furnace&#8221; product_1_button=&#8221;MORE&#8221; product_1_url=&#8221;https:\/\/www.secowarwick.com\/en\/products\/vacuum-heat-treatment\/casemasterevolution\/&#8221; product_2_title=&#8221;Low Pressure Carburizing (LPC) case and through hardening integral atmosphere oil quench (AOQ) Super IQ&#8221; product_2_src=&#8221;https:\/\/www.secowarwick.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/REX_SuperQ_250bw-e1576239478183.jpg&#8221; product_2_alt=&#8221;Low Pressure Carburizing (LPC) case and through hardening integral atmosphere oil quench (AOQ) Super IQ&#8221; product_2_button=&#8221;MORE&#8221; product_2_url=&#8221;https:\/\/www.secowarwick.com\/en\/products\/atmosphere-heat-treatment-furnace-systems\/super-iq-universal-chamber-furnace\/&#8221; product_3_title=&#8221;Low Pressure Carburizing (LPC),<br \/>case and through hardening<br \/>high pressure gas quench (HPGQ)<br \/>vacuum multi-chamber furnace&#8221; product_3_src=&#8221;https:\/\/www.secowarwick.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/CME-T-2.jpg&#8221; product_3_alt=&#8221;Low Pressure Carburizing (LPC), case and through hardening high pressure gas quench (HPGQ) vacuum multi-chamber furnace&#8221; product_3_button=&#8221;MORE&#8221; product_3_url=&#8221;https:\/\/www.secowarwick.com\/en\/products\/vacuum-heat-treatment\/casemaster-evolution-t\/&#8221; module_id=&#8221;secoalutest&#8221; module_class=&#8221;disable-animation&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.6&#8243; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; custom_css_free_form=&#8221;.et_pb_seco_products section.seco-products {||    max-width: 740px;||    \/* margin-left: auto !important; *\/||    \/* margin-right: auto !important; *\/||    align-items: center;||    display: block;||}&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_seco_products][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.16&#8243; custom_padding=&#8221;15px||15px|&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.16&#8243; background_size=&#8221;initial&#8221; background_position=&#8221;top_left&#8221; background_repeat=&#8221;repeat&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_column type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.16&#8243; custom_padding=&#8221;|||&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221; custom_padding__hover=&#8221;|||&#8221;][et_pb_code admin_label=&#8221;Code&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.23.1&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_module=&#8221;123774&#8243; saved_tabs=&#8221;all&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<pee style=\"text-align: center;\"><a class=\"small-button smallred rfq-big-bottom-button\" style=\"font-size: 20px; padding: 20px 60px;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.secowarwick.com\/en\/request-for-quote\/\"><span style=\"display: block; transform: skew(15deg,0deg); -webkit-transform: skew(15deg,0deg); font-size: 20px; !important\">ASK FOR MORE<\/span><\/a><\/pee>[\/et_pb_code][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row module_class=&#8221;secoservice-faq-wiersz&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.19.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; locked=&#8221;off&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_column type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.19.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_text module_class=&#8221;faq-product-title&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.6&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; locked=&#8221;off&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h2>GENERAL<\/h2>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][dipl_faq_page_schema closed_toggle_icon=&#8221;&#x4c;||divi||400&#8243; closed_icon_color=&#8221;#000000&#8243; closed_use_icon_font_size=&#8221;on&#8221; closed_icon_font_size=&#8221;24px&#8221; open_toggle_icon=&#8221;&#x4c;||divi||400&#8243; open_icon_color=&#8221;RGBA(255,255,255,0)&#8221; open_use_icon_font_size=&#8221;on&#8221; open_icon_font_size=&#8221;24px&#8221; closed_toggle_bg_color=&#8221;rgba(244,244,244,0)&#8221; open_toggle_bg_color=&#8221;rgba(255,255,255,0)&#8221; admin_label=&#8221;DP FAQPage Schema&#8221; module_class=&#8221;secoservice-faq faq-center-background&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.6&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; faq_heading_font=&#8221;TitilliumWeb Black|900|||||||&#8221; faq_question_closed_font=&#8221;TitilliumWeb Black||||||||&#8221; faq_question_closed_font_size=&#8221;26px&#8221; faq_answer_text_font=&#8221;Titillium Web||||||||&#8221; faq_answer_text_font_size=&#8221;24px&#8221; animation_style=&#8221;slide&#8221; animation_direction=&#8221;bottom&#8221; faq_question_closed_font_size_tablet=&#8221;26px&#8221; faq_question_closed_font_size_phone=&#8221;20px&#8221; faq_question_closed_font_size_last_edited=&#8221;on|phone&#8221; faq_answer_text_font_size_tablet=&#8221;24px&#8221; faq_answer_text_font_size_phone=&#8221;16px&#8221; faq_answer_text_font_size_last_edited=&#8221;on|phone&#8221; border_width_all=&#8221;0px&#8221; border_width_right=&#8221;0px&#8221; border_width_left=&#8221;0px&#8221; locked=&#8221;off&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][dipl_faq_page_schema_item faq_question=&#8221;What exactly is Low Pressure Carburizing (LPC)?&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.6&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p>Low Pressure Carburizing, also known as&nbsp;Vacuum Carburizing, is a&nbsp;modern method of carburizing used mainly in&nbsp;surface hardening of steel. The technology introduces carbon into the surface of the material under vacuum conditions, which ensures excellent control over the process, high cleanliness, and predictable results.<\/p>\n<p>[\/dipl_faq_page_schema_item][dipl_faq_page_schema_item faq_question=&#8221;Is LPC a\u00a0mature and widely used technology?&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.6&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p>Yes \u2014&nbsp;absolutely. Although research on&nbsp;LPC began in&nbsp;the 1960s and 1970s, the large\u2011scale industrial implementation started in&nbsp;the 1990s. Today, an estimated 10\u201320% of all carburizing worldwide is done using LPC, and this share continues to&nbsp;grow each year. Most new investments in&nbsp;carburizing technology are already vacuum-based.<\/p>\n<p>[\/dipl_faq_page_schema_item][dipl_faq_page_schema_item faq_question=&#8221;Is LPC accepted across the industry?&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.6&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p>Yes. The method is compliant with global standards and is widely used in&nbsp;industries requiring very high quality and process stability.<\/p>\n<p>[\/dipl_faq_page_schema_item][dipl_faq_page_schema_item faq_question=&#8221;Can LPC replace traditional atmospheric carburizing?&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.6&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p>Yes \u2014&nbsp;in&nbsp;every case. There is a&nbsp;global shift underway in&nbsp;which conventional atmospheric furnaces are being replaced with vacuum furnaces for LPC due to&nbsp;their performance, safety, and quality advantages.<\/p>\n<p>[\/dipl_faq_page_schema_item][\/dipl_faq_page_schema][et_pb_text module_class=&#8221;faq-product-title&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.6&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; locked=&#8221;off&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h2>ADVANTAGES OF LPC<\/h2>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][dipl_faq_page_schema closed_toggle_icon=&#8221;&#x4c;||divi||400&#8243; closed_icon_color=&#8221;#000000&#8243; closed_use_icon_font_size=&#8221;on&#8221; closed_icon_font_size=&#8221;24px&#8221; open_toggle_icon=&#8221;&#x4c;||divi||400&#8243; open_icon_color=&#8221;RGBA(255,255,255,0)&#8221; open_use_icon_font_size=&#8221;on&#8221; open_icon_font_size=&#8221;24px&#8221; closed_toggle_bg_color=&#8221;rgba(244,244,244,0)&#8221; open_toggle_bg_color=&#8221;rgba(255,255,255,0)&#8221; admin_label=&#8221;DP FAQPage Schema&#8221; module_class=&#8221;secoservice-faq faq-center-background&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.6&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; faq_heading_font=&#8221;TitilliumWeb Black|900|||||||&#8221; faq_question_closed_font=&#8221;TitilliumWeb Black||||||||&#8221; faq_question_closed_font_size=&#8221;26px&#8221; faq_answer_text_font=&#8221;Titillium Web||||||||&#8221; faq_answer_text_font_size=&#8221;24px&#8221; animation_style=&#8221;slide&#8221; animation_direction=&#8221;bottom&#8221; faq_question_closed_font_size_tablet=&#8221;26px&#8221; faq_question_closed_font_size_phone=&#8221;20px&#8221; faq_question_closed_font_size_last_edited=&#8221;on|phone&#8221; faq_answer_text_font_size_tablet=&#8221;24px&#8221; faq_answer_text_font_size_phone=&#8221;16px&#8221; faq_answer_text_font_size_last_edited=&#8221;on|phone&#8221; border_width_all=&#8221;0px&#8221; border_width_right=&#8221;0px&#8221; border_width_left=&#8221;0px&#8221; locked=&#8221;off&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][dipl_faq_page_schema_item faq_question=&#8221;Why are companies switching from atmospheric carburizing to\u00a0LPC?&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.6&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p>Several reasons drive this transition. LPC offers far better process efficiency and lower energy costs, supports full automation and repeatability, guarantees perfect surface quality and carbon profiles, and eliminates the specific safety risks associated with reactive atmospheres. Additionally, atmospheric carburizing has reached its technological limits, while vacuum technologies continue to&nbsp;evolve rapidly.<\/p>\n<p>[\/dipl_faq_page_schema_item][dipl_faq_page_schema_item faq_question=&#8221;How does LPC improve productivity and reduce costs?&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.6&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p>LPC cycles can be&nbsp;several times shorter than atmospheric processes because vacuum furnaces can operate at&nbsp;higher temperatures. Shorter cycles mean increased throughput, lower energy consumption, and lower operating costs. LPC also uses significantly less process gas, further reducing direct production expenses.<\/p>\n<p>[\/dipl_faq_page_schema_item][dipl_faq_page_schema_item faq_question=&#8221;How does LPC support automation and ease of operation?&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.6&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p>Vacuum carburizing furnaces operate fully automatically. They do&nbsp;not require constant supervision, manual atmosphere control, or&nbsp;ongoing operator intervention. They can be&nbsp;started or&nbsp;stopped on&nbsp;demand, with no&nbsp;lengthy conditioning or&nbsp;controlled cooling procedures required \u2014&nbsp;unlike atmospheric systems.<\/p>\n<p>[\/dipl_faq_page_schema_item][dipl_faq_page_schema_item faq_question=&#8221;How does LPC improve surface quality and carburizing uniformity?&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.6&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p>Because LPC is performed under vacuum using non\u2011oxidizing gases, it completely eliminates intergranular oxidation. The surface remains clean, and the process achieves excellent uniformity of carburizing \u2014&nbsp;even for tightly packed loads or&nbsp;components with complex geometries such as&nbsp;narrow or&nbsp;blind holes.<\/p>\n<p>[\/dipl_faq_page_schema_item][dipl_faq_page_schema_item faq_question=&#8221;Is LPC safer than traditional carburizing?&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.6&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p>Yes \u2014&nbsp;significantly. The carburizing atmosphere in&nbsp;LPC is contained within a&nbsp;sealed vacuum chamber, where its density is over 100 times lower than atmospheric pressure. There is no&nbsp;open flame, no&nbsp;combustion of excess gases, and no&nbsp;presence of toxic CO. Process gases are removed through a&nbsp;closed vacuum pumping system, ensuring inherently safer operation.<\/p>\n<p>[\/dipl_faq_page_schema_item][dipl_faq_page_schema_item faq_question=&#8221;How does LPC perform in\u00a0terms of environmental impact?&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.6&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p>LPC consumes less energy and emits less heat, vapor, and contaminants. The process produces no&nbsp;CO\u2082, and furnaces can be&nbsp;installed directly in&nbsp;clean production areas next to&nbsp;CNC machines without risk of contamination.<\/p>\n<p>[\/dipl_faq_page_schema_item][\/dipl_faq_page_schema][et_pb_text module_class=&#8221;faq-product-title&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.6&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; locked=&#8221;off&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h2>PROCESS PHENOMENA AND CARBURIZING GASES<\/h2>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][dipl_faq_page_schema closed_toggle_icon=&#8221;&#x4c;||divi||400&#8243; closed_icon_color=&#8221;#000000&#8243; closed_use_icon_font_size=&#8221;on&#8221; closed_icon_font_size=&#8221;24px&#8221; open_toggle_icon=&#8221;&#x4c;||divi||400&#8243; open_icon_color=&#8221;RGBA(255,255,255,0)&#8221; open_use_icon_font_size=&#8221;on&#8221; open_icon_font_size=&#8221;24px&#8221; closed_toggle_bg_color=&#8221;rgba(244,244,244,0)&#8221; open_toggle_bg_color=&#8221;rgba(255,255,255,0)&#8221; admin_label=&#8221;DP FAQPage Schema&#8221; module_class=&#8221;secoservice-faq faq-center-background&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.6&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; faq_heading_font=&#8221;TitilliumWeb Black|900|||||||&#8221; faq_question_closed_font=&#8221;TitilliumWeb Black||||||||&#8221; faq_question_closed_font_size=&#8221;26px&#8221; faq_answer_text_font=&#8221;Titillium Web||||||||&#8221; faq_answer_text_font_size=&#8221;24px&#8221; animation_style=&#8221;slide&#8221; animation_direction=&#8221;bottom&#8221; faq_question_closed_font_size_tablet=&#8221;26px&#8221; faq_question_closed_font_size_phone=&#8221;20px&#8221; faq_question_closed_font_size_last_edited=&#8221;on|phone&#8221; faq_answer_text_font_size_tablet=&#8221;24px&#8221; faq_answer_text_font_size_phone=&#8221;16px&#8221; faq_answer_text_font_size_last_edited=&#8221;on|phone&#8221; border_width_all=&#8221;0px&#8221; border_width_right=&#8221;0px&#8221; border_width_left=&#8221;0px&#8221; locked=&#8221;off&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][dipl_faq_page_schema_item faq_question=&#8221;How does LPC differ from atmospheric carburizing?&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.6&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p>The primary difference lies in&nbsp;the type of carbon\u2011carrying medium and how carbon is delivered to&nbsp;the material\u2019s surface. LPC uses oxygen\u2011free hydrocarbons (mainly acetylene), whereas atmospheric carburizing relies on&nbsp;CO\u2011based atmospheres.<\/p>\n<p>[\/dipl_faq_page_schema_item][dipl_faq_page_schema_item faq_question=&#8221;Which gases are used as\u00a0carbon carriers in\u00a0LPC?&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.6&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p>The most commonly used gas is acetylene (C\u2082H\u2082). Other hydrocarbons such as&nbsp;ethylene or&nbsp;propane can also be&nbsp;used but are less common.<\/p>\n<p>[\/dipl_faq_page_schema_item][dipl_faq_page_schema_item faq_question=&#8221;Why is acetylene the preferred gas for LPC?&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.6&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p>Acetylene has excellent thermal stability and a&nbsp;high carbon content (92%). It decomposes cleanly without increasing gas volume and provides a&nbsp;very high carbon transfer efficiency \u2014&nbsp;typically 30\u201350%, compared to&nbsp;below 1% in&nbsp;atmospheric carburizing.<\/p>\n<p>[\/dipl_faq_page_schema_item][dipl_faq_page_schema_item faq_question=&#8221;How is carbon delivered to\u00a0the steel surface in\u00a0LPC?&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.6&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p>Acetylene is introduced through strategically placed nozzles into the vacuum chamber. In&nbsp;vacuum and process temperature, the gas spreads rapidly and reaches all surfaces of the load. On&nbsp;the material surface, acetylene decomposes catalytically, depositing carbon that diffuses into the steel while hydrogen is released as&nbsp;gas.<\/p>\n<p>[\/dipl_faq_page_schema_item][dipl_faq_page_schema_item faq_question=&#8221;Is there any limit to\u00a0the amount of carbon that can be\u00a0supplied?&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.6&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p>In&nbsp;practice, no. LPC can supply so much carbon that excess forms soot on&nbsp;the surface \u2014&nbsp;which is undesirable but demonstrates that the process is not limited by&nbsp;atmosphere saturation.<\/p>\n<p>[\/dipl_faq_page_schema_item][dipl_faq_page_schema_item faq_question=&#8221;How is the LPC process controlled?&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.6&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p>LPC is controlled by&nbsp;measuring and adjusting the carbon flow \u2014&nbsp;meaning the quantity of carburizing gas fed into the chamber. This differs from atmospheric processes, which control the carbon potential of the gas atmosphere.<\/p>\n<p>[\/dipl_faq_page_schema_item][dipl_faq_page_schema_item faq_question=&#8221;Do LPC and atmospheric processes share anything in\u00a0common?&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.6&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p>Yes. Although carbon is supplied differently, once carbon reaches the material, the diffusion mechanism follows the same physical laws and depends on&nbsp;material chemistry and temperature.<\/p>\n<p>[\/dipl_faq_page_schema_item][\/dipl_faq_page_schema][et_pb_text module_class=&#8221;faq-product-title&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.6&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; locked=&#8221;off&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h2>OPERATION, PARAMETERS, AND LIMITATIONS<\/h2>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][dipl_faq_page_schema closed_toggle_icon=&#8221;&#x4c;||divi||400&#8243; closed_icon_color=&#8221;#000000&#8243; closed_use_icon_font_size=&#8221;on&#8221; closed_icon_font_size=&#8221;24px&#8221; open_toggle_icon=&#8221;&#x4c;||divi||400&#8243; open_icon_color=&#8221;RGBA(255,255,255,0)&#8221; open_use_icon_font_size=&#8221;on&#8221; open_icon_font_size=&#8221;24px&#8221; closed_toggle_bg_color=&#8221;rgba(244,244,244,0)&#8221; open_toggle_bg_color=&#8221;rgba(255,255,255,0)&#8221; admin_label=&#8221;DP FAQPage Schema&#8221; module_class=&#8221;secoservice-faq faq-center-background&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.6&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; faq_heading_font=&#8221;TitilliumWeb Black|900|||||||&#8221; faq_question_closed_font=&#8221;TitilliumWeb Black||||||||&#8221; faq_question_closed_font_size=&#8221;26px&#8221; faq_answer_text_font=&#8221;Titillium Web||||||||&#8221; faq_answer_text_font_size=&#8221;24px&#8221; animation_style=&#8221;slide&#8221; animation_direction=&#8221;bottom&#8221; faq_question_closed_font_size_tablet=&#8221;26px&#8221; faq_question_closed_font_size_phone=&#8221;20px&#8221; faq_question_closed_font_size_last_edited=&#8221;on|phone&#8221; faq_answer_text_font_size_tablet=&#8221;24px&#8221; faq_answer_text_font_size_phone=&#8221;16px&#8221; faq_answer_text_font_size_last_edited=&#8221;on|phone&#8221; border_width_all=&#8221;0px&#8221; border_width_right=&#8221;0px&#8221; border_width_left=&#8221;0px&#8221; locked=&#8221;off&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][dipl_faq_page_schema_item faq_question=&#8221;How do\u00a0vacuum furnaces differ from atmospheric furnaces?&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.6&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p>Vacuum furnaces operate in&nbsp;a&nbsp;sealed steel chamber capable of achieving pressures around 10\u207b\u00b9 hPa. Their heating chambers are typically made of graphite materials capable of withstanding temperatures above 1200\u00b0C.<br \/>Atmospheric furnaces are open to&nbsp;the environment, use ceramic or&nbsp;metallic chambers, and typically operate at&nbsp;900\u2013950\u00b0C.<\/p>\n<p>[\/dipl_faq_page_schema_item][dipl_faq_page_schema_item faq_question=&#8221;What temperatures are used in\u00a0LPC?&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.6&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p>Standard steels can be&nbsp;carburized up to&nbsp;about 980\u00b0C. Micro\u2011alloyed steels designed to&nbsp;limit grain growth can be&nbsp;carburized up to&nbsp;1050\u00b0C. In&nbsp;some cases, all steels can be&nbsp;carburized at&nbsp;such high temperatures if followed by&nbsp;a&nbsp;grain-refinement treatment.<\/p>\n<p>[\/dipl_faq_page_schema_item][dipl_faq_page_schema_item faq_question=&#8221;Why is the carburizing gas supplied in\u00a0pulses instead of continuously?&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.6&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p>Continuous feeding would quickly saturate the surface, causing heavy soot formation and reducing process efficiency. Therefore, LPC is divided into boost (gas injection) and diffusion (no&nbsp;gas) segments, repeated until the required carbon profile is achieved.<\/p>\n<p>[\/dipl_faq_page_schema_item][dipl_faq_page_schema_item faq_question=&#8221;Does pressure during gas injection affect the result?&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.6&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p>Process results are not significantly influenced by&nbsp;pressure. Pressure mainly affects soot formation \u2014&nbsp;lower pressure generally results in&nbsp;a&nbsp;cleaner process.<\/p>\n<p>[\/dipl_faq_page_schema_item][dipl_faq_page_schema_item faq_question=&#8221;Does the gas flow rate matter?&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.6&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p>Yes. Higher flow rates improve carburizing uniformity within the load and ensure better penetration of hard\u2011to\u2011reach features.<\/p>\n<p>[\/dipl_faq_page_schema_item][dipl_faq_page_schema_item faq_question=&#8221;Is there a\u00a0minimum surface area required for LPC?&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.6&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p>No. LPC can be&nbsp;performed even when the carburizing surface is extremely small \u2014&nbsp;no&nbsp;additional ballast surfaces are required.<\/p>\n<p>[\/dipl_faq_page_schema_item][dipl_faq_page_schema_item faq_question=&#8221;Does the gas flow need adjustment when surface area decreases?&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.6&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p>It is not strictly necessary, but recommended to&nbsp;optimize gas consumption and process cost.<\/p>\n<p>[\/dipl_faq_page_schema_item][dipl_faq_page_schema_item faq_question=&#8221;Are there limitations regarding the maximum surface area?&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.6&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p>Theoretical limitations exist, but in&nbsp;practice the main constraints are load space, mass, and required uniformity. LPC is generally very flexible in&nbsp;this regard.<\/p>\n<p>[\/dipl_faq_page_schema_item][dipl_faq_page_schema_item faq_question=&#8221;What is the composition of post process gas in\u00a0LPC?&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.6&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p>Mainly unreacted acetylene and hydrogen, with small amounts of methane, ethylene, ethane, and trace heavier hydrocarbons.<\/p>\n<p>[\/dipl_faq_page_schema_item][dipl_faq_page_schema_item faq_question=&#8221;Why does LPC eliminate intergranular oxidation?&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.6&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p>Because neither the carburizing gas nor its reaction products contain oxygen or&nbsp;oxidizing compounds, which are responsible for IGO in&nbsp;atmospheric processes.<\/p>\n<p>[\/dipl_faq_page_schema_item][dipl_faq_page_schema_item faq_question=&#8221;Can carbon be\u00a0removed from the surface in\u00a0LPC?&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.6&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p>No. LPC is a&nbsp;one\u2011directional process \u2014&nbsp;carbon is delivered to&nbsp;the surface and diffuses inward. The gas has no&nbsp;ability to&nbsp;decarburize the material.<\/p>\n<p>[\/dipl_faq_page_schema_item][\/dipl_faq_page_schema][et_pb_text module_class=&#8221;faq-product-title&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.6&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; locked=&#8221;off&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h2>MAINTENANCE OF LPC FURNACES<\/h2>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][dipl_faq_page_schema closed_toggle_icon=&#8221;&#x4c;||divi||400&#8243; closed_icon_color=&#8221;#000000&#8243; closed_use_icon_font_size=&#8221;on&#8221; closed_icon_font_size=&#8221;24px&#8221; open_toggle_icon=&#8221;&#x4c;||divi||400&#8243; open_icon_color=&#8221;RGBA(255,255,255,0)&#8221; open_use_icon_font_size=&#8221;on&#8221; open_icon_font_size=&#8221;24px&#8221; closed_toggle_bg_color=&#8221;rgba(244,244,244,0)&#8221; open_toggle_bg_color=&#8221;rgba(255,255,255,0)&#8221; admin_label=&#8221;DP FAQPage Schema&#8221; module_class=&#8221;secoservice-faq faq-center-background&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.6&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; faq_heading_font=&#8221;TitilliumWeb Black|900|||||||&#8221; faq_question_closed_font=&#8221;TitilliumWeb Black||||||||&#8221; faq_question_closed_font_size=&#8221;26px&#8221; faq_answer_text_font=&#8221;Titillium Web||||||||&#8221; faq_answer_text_font_size=&#8221;24px&#8221; animation_style=&#8221;slide&#8221; animation_direction=&#8221;bottom&#8221; faq_question_closed_font_size_tablet=&#8221;26px&#8221; faq_question_closed_font_size_phone=&#8221;20px&#8221; faq_question_closed_font_size_last_edited=&#8221;on|phone&#8221; faq_answer_text_font_size_tablet=&#8221;24px&#8221; faq_answer_text_font_size_phone=&#8221;16px&#8221; faq_answer_text_font_size_last_edited=&#8221;on|phone&#8221; border_width_all=&#8221;0px&#8221; border_width_right=&#8221;0px&#8221; border_width_left=&#8221;0px&#8221; locked=&#8221;off&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][dipl_faq_page_schema_item faq_question=&#8221;What does typical LPC furnace maintenance involve?&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.6&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p>Key maintenance areas include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>vacuum pumps (oil and filter replacement),<\/li>\n<li>heating system insulation (graphite or&nbsp;ceramic materials),<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>[\/dipl_faq_page_schema_item][\/dipl_faq_page_schema][et_pb_text module_class=&#8221;faq-product-title&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.6&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; locked=&#8221;off&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h2>LPC PROCESS SIMULATOR<\/h2>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][dipl_faq_page_schema closed_toggle_icon=&#8221;&#x4c;||divi||400&#8243; closed_icon_color=&#8221;#000000&#8243; closed_use_icon_font_size=&#8221;on&#8221; closed_icon_font_size=&#8221;24px&#8221; open_toggle_icon=&#8221;&#x4c;||divi||400&#8243; open_icon_color=&#8221;RGBA(255,255,255,0)&#8221; open_use_icon_font_size=&#8221;on&#8221; open_icon_font_size=&#8221;24px&#8221; closed_toggle_bg_color=&#8221;rgba(244,244,244,0)&#8221; open_toggle_bg_color=&#8221;rgba(255,255,255,0)&#8221; admin_label=&#8221;DP FAQPage Schema&#8221; module_class=&#8221;secoservice-faq faq-center-background&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.6&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; faq_heading_font=&#8221;TitilliumWeb Black|900|||||||&#8221; faq_question_closed_font=&#8221;TitilliumWeb Black||||||||&#8221; faq_question_closed_font_size=&#8221;26px&#8221; faq_answer_text_font=&#8221;Titillium Web||||||||&#8221; faq_answer_text_font_size=&#8221;24px&#8221; animation_style=&#8221;slide&#8221; animation_direction=&#8221;bottom&#8221; faq_question_closed_font_size_tablet=&#8221;26px&#8221; faq_question_closed_font_size_phone=&#8221;20px&#8221; faq_question_closed_font_size_last_edited=&#8221;on|phone&#8221; faq_answer_text_font_size_tablet=&#8221;24px&#8221; faq_answer_text_font_size_phone=&#8221;16px&#8221; faq_answer_text_font_size_last_edited=&#8221;on|phone&#8221; border_width_all=&#8221;0px&#8221; border_width_right=&#8221;0px&#8221; border_width_left=&#8221;0px&#8221; locked=&#8221;off&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][dipl_faq_page_schema_item faq_question=&#8221;Why is an LPC simulator necessary?&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.6&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p>Because LPC is not intuitive. The simulator allows the engineer to&nbsp;design a&nbsp;process recipe that will produce the desired carbon profile. Without such a&nbsp;tool, predicting results accurately would be&nbsp;extremely difficult.<\/p>\n<p>[\/dipl_faq_page_schema_item][dipl_faq_page_schema_item faq_question=&#8221;How accurate is the SimVaC LPC simulator?&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.6&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p>SimVaC enables precise selection of process parameters to&nbsp;meet the required carbon profile, eliminating the need for trial runs on&nbsp;new processes.<\/p>\n<p>[\/dipl_faq_page_schema_item][\/dipl_faq_page_schema][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>[et_pb_breadcrumbs _builder_version=&#8221;4.10.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][\/et_pb_breadcrumbs]CaseMaster Evolution \u2013 double- or\u00a0triple-chamber vacuum furnace Vacuum furnaces for low-pressure carburizing (LPC) and oil quenching or\u00a0high-pressure gas quenching in\u00a0high-volume production. \/ Design &amp; Purpose:CaseMaster Evolution double- or\u00a0triple-chamber furnaces are intended for low-pressure carburizing (LPC), low pressure carbonitriding (LPCN) and oil or\u00a0high-pressure gas quenching in\u00a0small, medium and high-volume production. \/ Applications:This family [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":87890,"parent":5346,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-124283","page","type-page","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.secowarwick.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/124283","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.secowarwick.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.secowarwick.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.secowarwick.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.secowarwick.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=124283"}],"version-history":[{"count":45,"href":"https:\/\/www.secowarwick.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/124283\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":191869,"href":"https:\/\/www.secowarwick.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/124283\/revisions\/191869"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.secowarwick.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/5346"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.secowarwick.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/87890"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.secowarwick.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=124283"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}