A METHOD OF THERMOCYCLIC ELECTROLYTIC PLASMA TREATMENT FOR IMPROVING THE SURFACE MICROHARDNESS OF STRUCTURAL STEEL 40KHN

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Abstract

The article presents the results of a study on the development of technological regimes for the thermocyclic electrochemical-plasma treatment method to improve the microhardness of 40ХН structural steel. The method is based on a combination of electrochemical-plasma cyclic effects, which effectively enhance the operational characteristics of the material. Thermocyclic electrochemical-plasma treatment involves a comprehensive effect on the material surface, including thermal cycles, electrochemical treatment, and plasma impact. During the process, the surface structure of the steel changes, forming a dense oxide and carbide film, which significantly increases hardness and wear resistance. The process includes alternating heating and cooling cycles under plasma treatment conditions, contributing to a significant increase in the steel's strength. Experimental studies showed that after applying thermocyclic electrochemical-plasma treatment, the microhardness of the 40ХН steel surface increases by approximately 4.5 times. The results confirm the effectiveness of the proposed method for improving the mechanical properties of structural materials used in various industries, including machine engineering, and open new opportunities to enhance the reliability and service life of components in the energy industry. The thermocyclic electrochemical-plasma treatment method is effective and promising for improving the properties of structural materials.