Kolsterising

Kolsterising® offers the solution for austenitic stainless steels by improving mechanical - wear properties without adversely affecting corrosion resistance. Kolsterising® is a proven process extending the life time of products thereby imparting economical advantages as well as technical advantages. Kolsterising® results in a wear resistant surface all over the part, irrespective of geometry. Also very small bores (Ø < 0,1 mm) and sharp edges can be kolsterised. Kolsterising® is the chosen treatment for many applications in most industrial areas including food, marine, engineering, medical, chemical, nuclear and petrochemical industries. Wherever components are subjected to severe wear and corrosion attack, Kolsterising® is now the most technically advanced process offering the required quality to industry.

Materials selection In principle, any austenitic stainless steel can be kolsterised. However, the preferred type is one containing molybdenum and is ferrite free, since this results in greatly increased resistance to pitting, crevice and stress corrosion. Kolsterising® of duplex stainless steel and a number of nickel base alloys is also possible.

Benefits of kolsterised products*

■ Corrosion resistance unchanged 

■ No change in shape, colour or size (normally to neglect) 

■ No change in surface roughness

 ■ No machining after treatment required 

■ Increased surface hardness to 1000 - 1200 HV0.05 (depending on material) 

■ No chemical elements are added to the material 

■ The non-magnetic behaviour of austenitic materials is not altered 

■ Insensitive to “galling“ 

■ Highly resistant to wear (e.g. by cavitation-erosion) 

■ Uniformly hardened also at sharp edges, inside bores and cavities

From:  internet.bodycote.org/kolsterising/