The heat treatment process of bulldozer track chains significantly enhances their performance in the following aspects:
1. Increased Hardness and Wear Resistance: Heat treatments, such as quenching and tempering, can markedly improve the hardness of chain materials. For example, the composite secondary chemical heat treatment method effectively increases the surface hardness and the thickness of the hard layer on the pin shaft, thereby enhancing the chain's wear resistance and durability.
2. Improved Mechanical Properties: Heat treatment processes adjust the microstructure of the material, improving its mechanical properties. By optimizing the heat treatment process of 40Cr steel, the treated mechanical properties can meet or exceed those of the original manufacturing material, 42CrMo steel, fulfilling the operational requirements of the chain.
3. Extended Service Life: Proper heat treatment enhances the fatigue strength and tensile strength of the chain, extending its service life. For instance, applying the quenching-tempering process to drive chain plates and drive chain pins not only increases core hardness and tensile load limits but also significantly saves energy and reduces consumption.
4. Reduced Maintenance Costs: By improving the wear resistance and fatigue resistance of the chain, the frequency of maintenance and replacements due to wear or damage is reduced, thereby lowering long-term operational costs.
5. Adaptability to Different Working Environments: Various heat treatment processes can be optimized according to the working environment and load conditions of the chain, ensuring it maintains good performance under different conditions. For example, medium-frequency induction heat treatment technology can be used for large-diameter chains and various sprockets. By improving tooling structures and heat treatment process parameters, more precise heat treatment effects can be achieved.
In summary, the heat treatment process of bulldozer track chains is a key technology for enhancing their performance. Through appropriate heat treatment, the durability, reliability, and cost-effectiveness of chains can be significantly improved.
Reference link:https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/mawe.201700061