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Liquid Nitriding
Liquid nitriding is a subcritical surface enhancement process with one of the longest track records of success of
any case hardening technology.

PVD Coatings
PVD coatings involve the deposition of thin (2-10 microns; 0.0001" – 0.0004") lms on the surface of tools and
components.

Engineered Bushings
HEF bushings are recognized worldwide for their excellent frictional and anti-seizure properties, and ability to
withstand high loads.

Liquid Nitriding

Overview
Process Steps
Nitriding Portfolio
Arcor Salt Bath Nitriding
Melonite
Emerging Trends
Performance Advantages of Liquid Nitriding
Corrosion Resistance
Abrasive Wear Resistance
Scu ng Wear
Fatigue Strength
Advantages of Liquid Nitriding
Applications and Industries
Automotive
 Industrial Precision Components

Hydraulics & Pneumatics

FAQ

Additional Resources

MELONITE® Salt Bath Nitriding

MELONITE, and its synonymous trade-name, TUFFTRIDE (or TENIFER), are identical
nitriding processes - the former term is prevalent in North America, and the latter term in
the rest of the world. The chemicals/salts utilized for the MELONITE are di erent than the
ones utilized for Arcor - the former process predates the latter and both are registered
trademarks of HEF Group. The compound layer metallurgical properties of components
treated using the MELONITE and the Arcor process are by-and-large equivalent for most
applications

The MELONITE process also begins with the placement of parts in a re-circulating air
preheat furnace, followed by immersion for 60-240 minutes in a molten nitrogen-rich
MELONITE speci c salt solution contained in an aerated furnace. After nitriding, parts are
treated in an oxidizing bath, water-cooled and rinsed. An optional impregnation step can
be implemented post-nitriding - if added corrosion protection is required.

Quench-Polish-Quench (QPQ) Process

“QPQ” stands for “Quench-Polish-Quench”, which describes a sequence of secondary
steps following the liquid nitriding step. These steps entail the sequence: (1) Oxidation: 2-3
microns of the surface layer is transformed to an iron oxide. This is done by immersing
the parts in specially formulated 'salts' between 400°C - 425°C (750°F -800°F); (2) Polishing:
to improve surface nish and (3) Re-oxidation: to recover the oxide layer thickness that
may have been lost during the polishing step. QPQ is prescribed when a smooth surface
nish and maximum corrosion protection are required.

For many applications, this nishing process provides a surface condition that protects
against corrosion and wear superior than hard chrome or nickel plating.

How It Works: Treatment Cycle

Polishing / Metal Finishing: To reduce post-nitriding surface roughness
Post Oxidation: To recover the oxide layer removed during the Polishing / Metal
Finishing Step after Nitriding

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