An annealing furnace is a highly specialized piece of equipment in any industrial application where steel or alloys are heated to high temperatures to change hardness and specific properties, including the overall strength of the metal. This is also essential to and to make it more workplace and less brittle.
There are many different styles and designs in any type of annealing furnace. With two basic types, batch and continuous, there are different considerations any buyer should consider. Batch annealing furnaces heat specific amounts of metal in a batch process which is often the best option for smaller applications or for very specific types of annealing requirements.
A continuous annealing furnace uses a conveyor type of process to feed metal continually through the system. Often these types of systems are set up as modular types of units with different heating cells, from high to low, as well as oil or gas quenching cells and a transfer cart to move the metal between them on a set timed movement. Vacuum tight doors between the cells improve efficiency and utilize the latest in technology.
Upgrading or Upsizing
One important consideration when selecting an annealing furnace system is to determine if growth or expansion is in the future for the production line. This is essential as either selecting a larger size of furnace for future needs or choosing a modular option which can be easily expanded is critical in effective use of the available budget.
Size and space within the facility is also an important consideration when selecting an annealing furnace. Today’s systems tend to be much smaller than in the past and can be modified to meet specific industrial needs.
Technology Options
The more control of the system is automated the greater the efficiency and consistency of the process. Systems today will include training on the computer software, which will be essential for technicians using the equipment. When considering an annealing furnace ask about in-house training for your staff and also ensure any software used is fully compatible with any existing software which will be integrated.
Last but not least, it is essential to verify the manufacturer of the annealing furnace under consideration will ensure the furnace meets or exceeds any industry specifications. This is essential in the aerospace industry as well as in other specialized applications and should be specified by the manufacturer in the furnace specifications and information.
For a replacement or new annealing furnace, talk to us. At ECM USA we have several furnaces to meet any industry needs. For more information see us at website.
