The Process

Cryogenic processing, the deep chilling of materials so that the molecular structure of the metal is brought to "cryogenic stillness" in order to improve wear characteristics and impact resistance, is not a new technology. CryoPlus’ dry process is computer-controlled, utilizing a prescribed temperature profile and maintained at -300°F for a calculated time before gradually returning the parts to room temperature. The dry process ensures parts are not exposed to any cryogenic liquids, thereby eliminating the risk of localized thermal shock from contact with liquid nitrogen. CryoPlus’ custom treatment profiles are developed according to the specific alloy, size, weight, and configuration of the parts being treated. The processor controls the flow of liquid nitrogen into the chamber as the liquid is vaporized and circulated throughout the chamber. Many materials require a flash temper (typically +200°F) prior to the deep cryogenic soak. Once the temperature reaches -300°F the process enters the "soak phase" which maintains this temperature for a prescribed duration to allow for complete transformation of the material at a microstructural level. The parts then must be tempered to approximately +300°F after being subjected to the deep freeze phase. This tempering temperature varies for different materials, and the processing time varies for different material cross sections.

Please read Thermal Processing magazine article for more detailed information about the cryogenic process in general.