Question

In a mass production facility, steel components are to be hardened by carbon diffusion. Would you carry out the hardening process at room temperature or in a furnace at a high temperature, say \(900^{\circ} \mathrm{C}\) ? Why?

Short answer

Answer: In a furnace at a high temperature (900°C).

Step-by-step solution

Understand Carbon Diffusion

Carbon diffusion in steel is the process by which carbon atoms migrate within the steel's structure under the influence of temperature gradients. The carbon concentration affects the hardness of the steel. The higher the carbon concentration in the steel, the harder it becomes.

Relation between Temperature and Diffusion Rate

Temperature plays a significant role in the diffusion process. According to Fick's Law, the diffusion rate is directly proportional to the temperature. This means that at higher temperatures, the diffusion rate of carbon in the steel will be faster, resulting in a more rapid hardening process.

Comparing Room Temperature with High Temperature

Carrying out the hardening process at room temperature will be inefficient because the diffusion rate of carbon in the steel will be relatively slow. It would take a considerably long time for the steel components to be sufficiently hardened. On the other hand, carrying out the process in a furnace at 900°C (a high temperature) will dramatically increase the diffusion rate. As a result, the time required for hardening the steel components will be significantly reduced.

Conclusion

The hardening process for steel components through carbon diffusion should be carried out in a furnace at a high temperature, such as 900°C. This is because the diffusion rate increases with temperature, leading to faster hardening of the steel components, which is essential in a mass production facility to maintain efficiency and productivity.