I am building a DC solenoid valve and have settled on simple pure iron per ASTM 848 for the magnetic parts. All parts are cylindrical and turned on a lathe. Gaps will be held to a close tolerance. My question is on heat treating for optimal properties.
We are worried about distortions after machining, so a high temperature treat (1850F) for grain growth seems dangerous after machining. I am considering a 1850F treat of the bars before machining, possibly followed by a 1550F anneal after machining. Would this be useful, or would the machining ruin the effect of the heat treat?
I am also unsure of the value of wet hydrogen in the final anneal vs. vacuum. Vacuum treating is much easier to find locally. Is the hydrogen worth the trouble?
Any comments on your experience with heat treating for magnetic properties will be appreciated and read with interest.
We are worried about distortions after machining, so a high temperature treat (1850F) for grain growth seems dangerous after machining. I am considering a 1850F treat of the bars before machining, possibly followed by a 1550F anneal after machining. Would this be useful, or would the machining ruin the effect of the heat treat?
I am also unsure of the value of wet hydrogen in the final anneal vs. vacuum. Vacuum treating is much easier to find locally. Is the hydrogen worth the trouble?
Any comments on your experience with heat treating for magnetic properties will be appreciated and read with interest.
