Research and modeling of plasma hardening process of steel 40X

In this paper, the results of research and modeling of the process of plasma hardening of specimens from steel 40Kh are presented. Using experimental data on the size of hardening zones within the framework of thermophysical modeling, the effective radius and efficiency of the plasma arc are determined. The simulation of plasma surface hardening was carried out depending on the speed and current of the plasma arc. Based on the analysis, nomograms are proposed for determining the depth and width of the hardening zone of steel 40Kh depending on the speed and current of the plasma arc. Thermal cycles are constructed in the steel heating zone. The cooling rates of the material are determined depending on the speed of movement and the depth of hardening in comparison with the critical rate of steel hardening.