Novel pack cementations: direct current field assisted pack cementations

AbstractDirect current field (DCF) assisted pack cementation processes are designed to overcome the problems of higher processing temperature and longer time in conventional pack cementations (CPCs). Anode and specimen as cathode are parallel with each other, and are embedded in powder agents, all of which are sealed in a stainless steel box. Effects of DCF on pack cementations, including boriding, nitrocarburising, aluminising, siliconising and chromising, have been investigated by applying DCF between the electrodes during soaking. The results indicate that DCF can greatly enhance all these cementations. Effective pack cementations can be carried out at a lower temperature and/or by shorter soaking time with the help of DCF. Direct current field endows the treated specimen with properties being the same as or superior to that by CPC. It is proposed that DCF makes the concentrations of required element at and around the cathode specimen’s side facing the anode much higher than in any other positions in t...