Laser hardening of steel components
Laser hardening is implemented as a precise surface hardening process for steel components, applied where increased wear resistance is required while maintaining the mechanical properties of the component core.
The process is carried out selectively and limited to defined areas of the component, avoiding uncontrolled thermal impact on the overall geometry.
Technology and process control in laser hardening
Laser hardening is performed using 6-axis industrial robots equipped with laser hardening heads. This solution enables precise guidance of the laser beam along the component geometry and full control of the processing path.
Robotic control ensures:
- high positioning accuracy and defined beam incidence angles,
- repeatable hardening paths and depths,
- processing of components with complex spatial geometry,
- reduced energy input and minimal thermal distortion.
The process is designed according to component geometry and operational requirements.
Material range for laser hardening
Laser hardening is suitable for steels with a carbon content of at least approx. 0.2%, i.e. materials that are fundamentally hardenable.
The process is particularly effective for structural steels, tool steels and high-hardenability grades used in components subject to intensive surface wear.
Hardening depth and characteristics of the hardened layer
- The maximum practical hardening depth is up to approx. 2.5 mm and depends on material properties and process parameters.
- Only the surface layer is hardened, while the component core retains its toughness and mechanical strength.
This separation of material properties enables an optimal balance between surface hardness and overall component durability.
Advantages of laser hardening in industrial applications
Laser hardening provides:
- precise, localised hardening of selected areas,
- minimal geometric distortion,
- high process repeatability through robotic control,
- elimination of additional cooling media,
- increased wear resistance and extended component service life.
The process integrates effectively into both serial and single-piece production, particularly for components with complex geometry.