Hydraulic cylinder rods are essential components in various industries, from construction to manufacturing to agriculture. They are responsible for transmitting linear force and must be able to withstand high loads and harsh operating conditions. Induction hardened chrome bar is one of the best materials for manufacturing hydraulic cylinder rods.
What’s the difference between induction chrome bars and regular chrome bars?
The main difference between induction hardened chrome bars and regular chrome bars is the hardness of the surface layer. Induction hardened chrome bars have a much harder surface layer than regular chrome bars, typically HRC 55-60 compared to HRC 45-50. This is because the induction hardening process heats the bar’s surface to a very high temperature, which changes the microstructure of the steel.
In addition to its increased surface hardness, an induction hardened chrome bar has better fatigue resistance than the regular chrome bar. It is less likely to fail due to repeated loading and unloading.
Regular chrome bar is still a good choice for most applications, but it is less wear-resistant or fatigue-resistant than an induction hardened chrome bar. It is typically used in applications where the bar is not subjected to as much wear and tear.
Here is a table that summarises the key differences between induction hardened chrome bars and regular chrome bars:
| Property | Induction hardened chrome bar | Regular chrome bar |
|---|---|---|
| Surface hardness | HRC 55-60 | HRC 45-50 |
| Wear resistance | Excellent | Good |
| Fatigue resistance | Excellent | Good |
When should you use induction hardened chrome bars?
Induction hardened chrome bar is ideal for manufacturing hydraulic cylinder rods in applications where the rod will be subjected to high wear and tear, corrosion, or fatigue. Some examples of these applications include:
- Heavy-duty construction equipment: Hydraulic cylinder rods in heavy-duty construction equipment, such as excavators and bulldozers, are subject to high loads and harsh operating conditions. Induction hardened chrome bar is a good choice for these applications because of its high surface hardness, core strength, and corrosion resistance.
- Mining and agricultural equipment: Hydraulic cylinder rods in mining and agricultural equipment are also subject to high loads and harsh operating conditions. Induction hardened chrome bar is a good choice for these applications for the same reasons.
- Industrial automation: Hydraulic cylinder rods in industrial automation applications are often used to operate robotic arms and other machinery. Induction hardened chrome bar is a good choice for these applications because of its high precision and wear resistance.
- Mobile hydraulics: Hydraulic cylinders are used in various mobile hydraulic applications, such as construction equipment, agricultural machinery, and mining equipment. In these applications, the hydraulic cylinders are often exposed to harsh conditions, such as dirt, dust, and moisture. Induction hardened chrome bar is an ideal material for hydraulic cylinder rods in these applications because of its excellent wear resistance and corrosion resistance.
- Industrial hydraulics: Hydraulic cylinders are also used in various industrial applications, such as manufacturing equipment, machine tools, and process control equipment. In these applications, the hydraulic cylinders are often subjected to high loads and repeated loading and unloading. Induction hardened chrome bar is an ideal material for hydraulic cylinder rods in these applications because of its excellent fatigue resistance.
- Harsh environments: Hydraulic cylinders are also used in various harsh environments, such as offshore oil and gas platforms, chemical processing plants, and food processing plants. In these environments, the hydraulic cylinders are often exposed to corrosive chemicals, high temperatures, and other extreme conditions. Induction hardened chrome bar is an ideal material for hydraulic cylinder rods in these applications because of its excellent corrosion resistance and wear resistance.
Advantages of induction hardened chrome bars:
Induction hardened chrome bar offers a number of advantages for hydraulic cylinder rods, including:
- High surface hardness: The surface hardness of induction hardened chrome bar is typically HRC 55-60, which makes it very resistant to wear and abrasion.
- Good core strength: The ductile core of induction hardened chrome bar provides the rod with good strength and impact resistance.
- Excellent corrosion resistance: Chrome plating gives the rod excellent corrosion resistance, even in harsh operating environments.
The verdict:
Which type of chrome bar is right for you depends on the application. If the bar will be subjected to high wear and tear, fatigue, or corrosion, then an induction hardened chrome bar is the best choice. If the bar is not subjected to as much wear and tear, then a regular chrome bar may be a suitable option.
If you are considering using an induction hardened chrome bar to manufacture a hydraulic cylinder rod, it is important to consult with a leading materials supplier to ensure that the material is suitable for your specific application.
Honingcraft’s Offering:
Honingcraft’s induction hardened chrome bar is used for applications with high surface hardness and excellent resistance to surface impact.
Honingcraft can provide you with induction hardened chrome bars for hydraulic cylinders. The main material is CK 45. The diameter ranges from 10 mm to 200 mm. The standard length is 6m. By request, bars minimum of 2 metres and a maximum of 17 metres can be induction hardened.
Honingcraft offers fast turnaround times with no compromise on client specifications or quality.
