AMS 2631 is a specification that outlines the requirements for case-hardening steel parts using a gaseous nitriding process. The process of gaseous nitriding is widely used in the aerospace, defence, and automotive industries. It involves the diffusion of nitrogen into the surface of the steel, which results in a hardened layer. This specification ensures the steel parts are consistent and meet the required standards. This blog will discuss the composition, physical and mechanical properties, and application of AMS 2631.
What is AMS 2631?
AMS 2631 is a widely used standard in the aerospace and defence industries. It refers to the nondestructive testing of parts and materials to ensure their safety and reliability. This industry-leading standard specifies magnetic particle and fluorescent penetrant inspection procedures. In simpler terms, AMS 2631 provides guidelines for detecting surface and subsurface defects in aerospace components to avoid catastrophic failures that could jeopardize human life. The standard has become a crucial part of quality control and assurance in the aviation industry, and its meticulous procedures are recognized by experts worldwide.
AMS 2631 Composition
AMS 2631 specifies using low-alloy steel containing carbon, manganese, chromium, and molybdenum. The chemical composition of this steel is designed to promote the formation of a nitride-rich surface layer during the nitriding process. Other trace elements, such as silicon and nickel, may be present to improve the mechanical properties of the steel. The overall composition of AMS 2631 steel ensures that it is suitable for high-strength and wear-resistance applications.
AMS 2631 Physical Properties
The chemical composition and the heat treatment process determine the physical properties of AMS 2631 steel. The density of this steel is typically around 7.8 g/cm³. The steel has a low thermal expansion coefficient, making it resistant to thermal shock. Additionally, the steel has good corrosion resistance, especially when compared with other alloys used in nitriding applications.
AMS 2631 Mechanical Properties
The mechanical properties of AMS 2631 steel are critical for its use in high-stress applications. The hardness of the steel is typically between 450 and 600 HV (Vickers), making it suitable for applications that require high wear resistance. The tensile strength of the steel ranges from 1250 to 1450 MPa (megapascals). The steel exhibits good toughness, which means it can withstand sudden impacts without cracking or breaking.
AMS 2631 Uses
AMS 2631 is commonly used in applications where high-stress resistance is required. It is widely used in aerospace for landing gear, engine parts, and gears. The defence industry also uses AMS 2631 steel for missile guidance systems and rocket and submarine parts. Additionally, the automotive industry uses this steel for crankshafts, camshafts, and transmission parts.
AMS 2631 Hardness
The composition and the nitriding process typically determine the hardness of AMS 2631 steel. The hardening process results in a surface hardness between 70 and 75 HRC (Rockwell C), which makes it very resistant to wear and tear. This hardness level is essential for parts subjected to high-stress conditions, such as gears.
AMS 2631 Heat treatment
The heat treatment process of AMS 2631 is critical to ensure that the steel parts produced meet the required standards. The heat treatment involves heating the steel to a specific temperature and then cooling it in a controlled environment. The temperature and duration of the heat treatment are critical to ensuring that the steel has the desired physical and mechanical properties. The heat treatment process also helps to eliminate any internal stresses in the steel that may affect its quality.
Conclusion:
AMS 2631 is a specification that outlines the requirements for case-hardening steel parts using a gaseous nitriding process. It is commonly used in high-stress aerospace, defence, and automotive applications. The chemical composition of this steel is designed to promote the formation of a nitride-rich surface layer during the nitriding process. The physical and mechanical properties of AMS 2631 steel are critical for ensuring it is suitable for these high-stress applications. The hardness and heat treatment are important factors that affect the quality of the steel parts produced. Understanding the composition, properties, and applications of AMS 2631 is essential for ensuring that the steel produced meets the required standards.
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