Numerical simulation of carburization and decarburization profiles in steels

Due to economic significance, industry demands on mathematical models, which allow for the prediction of realistic carburization and decarburization depth profiles. Analytical solutions of Fick's law, however, are of limited aptitude, as the concentration dependence of the diffusion coefficient of carbon in steel cannot be considered. Thus, the present paper presents a numerical simulation tool based on the finite element method (FEM). A widespread commercially available program system was used to ensure industrial applicability and to make a contribution to the standardizing of operation control.