Extension of the quality level: Inductive tempering up to dimensions of 100 mm round

LSV Lech-Stahl Veredelung GmbH (LSV) has several decades of experience in the production of bright steel and the refinement of low-alloy round steel. The wide-ranging product portfolio is complemented by the know-how and many years of practical experience in inductive single bar quenching. As a 100% subsidiary of the only steel mill in Bavaria, Lech-Stahlwerke, we also offer in-depth materials knowledge that benefits our customers in terms of application.

We can offer the metalworking industry the right heat treatment depending on the steel application. The targeted adjustment of microstructure properties ensures the best machinability and optimal component properties of the steel bar. State-of-the-art induction quenching and tempering systems enable heat treatment to a low residual stress level and high reproducibility. The two process areas of hardening and tempering are completely inductive. The inductive single bar quenching allows precise parameterization and the resulting generation of closely tolerated mechanical properties in the quenching and tempering process. Comparatively high hardening temperatures allow the potential of the materials and bright steel products used to be fully exploited in terms of chemical analysis and the resulting mechanical-technological properties. We use our profound know-how from years of practical experience in induction quenching and tempering to expand the range of dimensions from a maximum of 70 mm to a diameter of 100 mm round.

Since inductive quenching and tempering enables the exact reproducibility of the attributes, our customer receives the required properties consistently and precisely for each individual rod, even for large diameters.

From a technological point of view, the extension of inductive quenching and tempering to a dimension of 100 mm round is quite challenging, as all process parameters have to be redetermined. The dimensions of the induction coils are matched to the diameter of the steel bar in order to optimize the efficiency of heating. This is also a contribution to greater energy efficiency.

LSV's know-how benefits the customer who processes the product, as he receives a semi-finished product that already has some of the component properties of the finished components that are ultimately required. This can lead to a cost advantage in the consideration of the entire value chain and thus contribute to maintaining the competitiveness of our customers.

Compared to conventional annealing methods, the induction processes also make it possible to save CO2 emissions. Here we see enormous potential for further measures in terms of sustainability. Of course, the LSV customer can obtain a product carbon footprint on request.

As a certified automotive supplier, we use our understanding of quality to the advantage of the wind energy industry. LSV is already a steel supplier for the production of components and parts for wind power. The steel bars are used, for example, to manufacture screws and anchor systems for rotor connections and tower segment connections. The know-how of induction heat treatment is TPG-certified and makes a significant contribution to the wear resistance and service life of the components, especially in the offshore sector. As an APQP4Wind-qualified company, LSV will help to minimise the risks within the supply chains in the wind industry. LSV sees its reliability paired with quality in the automotive standard as a guarantee for establishing itself as a supplier of global wind energy.

The customers' claim is the incentive for LSV Lech-Stahl Veredelung to push the boundaries of steel.