S35C steel plate, a medium carbon steel under the JIS G 4051 standard, is widely used in components requiring moderate strength and machinability. One way to enhance its surface hardness while maintaining a tough core is through the carburizing process. This heat treatment method is commonly applied when wear resistance and fatigue strength are critical.
Carburizing involves introducing carbon into the surface layer of the steel. The S35C steel plate is heated to a temperature between 880–950°C in a carbon-rich environment—either in solid, liquid, or gaseous form. During this stage, carbon atoms diffuse into the steel's surface. After carburizing, the material is typically quenched and tempered, transforming the outer layer into a hard, wear-resistant martensite while keeping the inner core ductile.
This process significantly improves surface hardness, often reaching above HRC 60, making S35C steel plate ideal for applications like gears, shafts, and other mechanical parts that require high wear resistance on the surface and toughness inside.
The carburizing process allows manufacturers to upgrade cost-effective carbon steel like S35C steel plate for more demanding applications, offering both durability and performance at a reasonable cost. It’s a valuable technique for extending service life and reducing maintenance in various industrial environments.