A PC-based system for procedure development in laser transformation hardening

A PC-based software package has been developed which facilitates the generation of procedures for laser transformation hardening. The package comprises a model-based process simulation module, a graphical user interface based on a standarized parameter record, a database of completed procedures, and a processing cost analysis. Analytical models of heat flow and phase transformations are used to predict the depth of the transformed zone and the maximum hardness developed, in terms of the principal process variables (the laser beam parameters and material properties). Good agreement between experimental data and model predictions is demonstrated for a range of alloy steels. Realistic sets of processing parameters can thus be obtained for experimental evaluation, reducing the amount of trial-and-error testing significantly. Archived procedures can be retrieved for editing and further development. Processing costs can be compared readily with those for conventional surface-hardening techniques.