Reducing Part Deformation by Improving the Mechatronic System of Induction Heat-Treatment Equipment
Abstract
Induction heat treatment is used to improve the surface properties of machine parts, but nonuniform heating and cooling can produce residual stresses and dimensional changes. This paper proposes a mechatronic control concept for induction heat-treatment equipment to improve process consistency and reduce the risk of part deformation. A targeted review of published work is combined with a conceptual system design. The proposed architecture links temperature sensing, signal conditioning, a programmable controller, an adjustable induction power source, a workpiece-motion mechanism, and controlled quenching. Published confirmation-test data from an induction-hardening study are reanalyzed descriptively to illustrate how deformation measurements and process limits can inform monitoring. Across six reported tests, maximum deflection ranged from 605 to 815 μm, with a calculated mean of 694.2 μm; these values belong to the cited study and are not results of the present design. The proposed system provides a practical framework for future implementation. Its effect must be confirmed on a defined workpiece through controlled experiments or validated simulation.
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References
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