Many metal products need to be heat-treated so that they fulfill the durability and functionality requirements of their intended application. One key component of metal heat treating is a kiln, (sometimes referred to as an oven or furnace) .—an insulated chamber where the heat treatment process occurs. Kilns must be chosen carefully based on your unique requirements. Here are the critical factors to consider when selecting the ideal kiln for metal heat treating.
What to Consider When Picking a Kiln, Oven, or Furnace
Three of the main elements to consider when selecting a metal heat-treating kiln are temperature capacity, configuration, and heat source.
Temperature Capacities
Industrial kilns for ceramics can work at high temperatures exceeding 2,350 °F. However, different types of kilns have different temperature capacities. For example, while a high-temperature kiln can reach temperatures of up to 2,381 °F (1,305 °C), medium-temp kilns operate at lower temperatures of up to around 2,250 °F (1,232 °C). Meanwhile, some low-temp kilns work specifically with low-fire clays, resins, and glass with temperature limits of up to 1700 °F - 2,100 °F (927 °C - 1,150 °C).
The right temperature setting will ultimately depend on the types of projects you want to complete and the materials you'll use.
Configurations
Another factor to consider is the kiln's configuration, such as:
- Vertical loading
- Top loading
- Front loading
- Cabinet Style
- Bench Top
- Continuous or Batch Furnace Style
Generally, a batch kiln will allow for heat-treating operations of either large parts or processing of many small parts with the same metal heating profile.
You'll want to use a continuous kiln if you’re automating the fabrication of small-to-mid-sized projects at large volumes.
Heat Sources
You'll also want to consider the kiln's heat source based on your facility’s capabilities. Common heat sources include:
- Electric or resistance: These industrial kilns are powered via electricity, using factory voltages.
- Propane or natural gas: Liquefied petroleum, propane, or butane is used in these kilns to heat treat components.
Kilns for Medical Device Heat Treating
One of the many applications for industrial kilns is medical device heat treatment. Many types of medical device parts rely on this process to enhance their properties, including corrosion resistance, mechanical strength, and biocompatibility. The right kilns enable manufacturers to produce medical devices that work the way they should in specialty environments, meeting this industry's high standards.
Some of the metals that might require medical heat treatment include stainless steel and titanium. Another popular material is cobalt-chromium, which is used in implants and needs heat treatment to maximize its reliability and strength.
Many devices undergo heat treatment in certain types of kilns:
- Bone saws
- Bone screws
- Shields
- Cases
- Clips
- Battery contacts
- Capacitor cans
- Modular taps
- Sidelocks
- Orthodontic cutters
- Tip inserts
- Knee joints
- Hip implants
- Clamps
In laboratory environments, heat treatment is also critical in ensuring novel materials meet safety and functionality requirements for research and certification purposes. These applications could include:
- Real-world simulation: Labs may use kilns to heat treat materials and test the effects of annealing, tempering, hardening, and other real-world procedures on the material’s properties.
- Material science development: Simulations using kilns and heat treatment could also assist in the development of new materials for many applications, such as stronger, lighter aircraft alloys for the military and defense sectors.
- Optimizing existing materials: Heat treating can enhance the performance of certain existing materials, improving their ductility, mechanical strength, and resistance to fatigue and corrosion.
Reliable Kilns, Ovens, and Furnaces from Heat Treat Now
Using the right kilns is critical to medical device heat treatment and other potential applications. If you're seeking the ideal kiln for your facility or project, you'll be able to find the appropriate model in our selection here at Heat Treat. Request a quote today for a kiln that will meet your unique requirements.