Nitrogen for the metal industry

Nitrogen is used in the metalworking industry to improve production processes and minimise explosion risks.

A method consisting of heat treatment and subsequent cooling is often used to harden metals. To avoid edge oxidation and decarburisation, especially during heating, a shielding gas atmosphere of nitrogen is used in the industrial sector. Gases (e.g. hydrogen) can form bubbles in metals in blast furnaces. Such bubbles remain as cavities after the metal has hardened. Deposits of this nature can lead to premature material fatigue. One example of this is hydrogen embrittlement, which must be avoided under all circumstances. The liquid metal can be degassed effectively by injecting nitrogen into the furnace.

The solids mixers for mixing additives from different powdery substances form a dust atmosphere. To avoid the risk of dust explosions, they are therefore blanketed with nitrogen. Additives are used in the casting of metals and alloys to achieve improved product properties as well as energy and material savings.

Metals are also coated with other metals and materials for long-term protection against corrosion. This takes place under a shielding gas atmosphere composed of nitrogen to prevent oxidation during the process.

With our nitrogen generators, we supply high quality solutions for the stationary and mobile production of nitrogen for different applications, including for low volume requirements.