Evaluation of Direct Quench and Conventionally Heat Treated Forgings

Direct quenching of forgings results in cost savings due to reduced energy consumption and increased production efficiency compared to the conventional reheat and quench process. Direct quenching requires specialized equipment designed for continuous processing to control microstructure and properties. Tensile, impact, fatigue, and fracture toughness properties of direct quench and conventionally heat treated SAE 1046 steel, front axle I-beams and SAE 1541 steel, front axle I-beams and steering knuckles indicate that direct quenching is an acceptable alternative to the conventional reheat and quench process.