Thermal Steel Treatments Stabilize Qualities

Thermal Treatments Stabilize Steel for Machining

Standard hot rolled bar as it comes off the mill has typical physical properties which are inconsistent throughout the bar. In certain applications these irregularities are no cause for concern and create no breach in quality. In other applications the ability to machine intricate parts is markedly improved by creating machining surfaces which are consistent. This increases productivity in the machining process and of course, tool life. Annealing is the process of creating such a consistent surface for machining. We offer Lamellar Pearlite and Spheroidzed Annealing processes.

Heat Treating steel includes quenching, tempering, stress relieving, normalizing. All of these processes stabilize and make consistent some necessary quality desired in the steel being used. Examples would be increasing the hardness of the steel to meet products specifications or stress relieving to eliminate the stresses caused by working the steel. In certain applications if the inherent stresses are not relieved your machined parts will suffer in tolerance.

Anneal – L.P & Spheroidize
Anneal – Stress Relieving
Quench & Temper
Normalize

"Summit took the initiative with their stocking program so we have material when we need it,” says the purchasing agent for a manufacturer of components for high-performance vehicles. Now, Summit supplies about 80 percent of the manufacturer’s bar material, which includes 4140 alloy and 4150 alloy bearing quality steel, as well as 8620 bearing steel. “Their program makes my job easier. I never have to worry about stock.”

Raising the Bar, Modern Metals 2013

“I think in manufacturing you have to continuously work on cost reduction ideas while improving production methods,” [one] North American plant manager says. “I believe Summit is on board with that. Summit has been quick to resolve any quality issues and that’s what you expect as a customer. Our customers expect the same from us.”

Selling Good Service, Modern Metals 2011

“Summit Steel’s pricing is pretty reasonable,” [one] fabrication supervisor adds. “Right now, customer service stands out as we look at other [products] we need to make in the future.” He notes that because of the successful coupling in the past, this North American company is likely to work with Summit Steel on future endeavors. “We have a contact person who looks after us—he emails me with updates”.