Vacuum Annealing

Annealing is a process used to soften die and mold steels while also softening the metal. The metal is raised to a temperature approximately 100° above the austenizing temperature (roughly 1450° F, or higher depending on the steel), held constant for a period of time, then cooled slowly in still air in the furnace to 900° F, followed by cooling to room temperature outside of the furnace.

When this process is performed in a vacuum furnace, it eliminates the oxidation of the steel and the metal remains brightly polished throughout the process. Annealing results in a uniform softening throughout the steel.

Edge Annealing

Edge annealing is a process used to eliminate burned zones on plates and other casting dies. Due to the annealing process, the method of raising and lowering the temperature will soften the steel only in the effected burned zones.

For more information on our annealing services, please call us at (616) 475-5750 or send us an e-mail.