Analysis of Energy Requirements in Thermochemical Heat Treatment Using the Example of Gas Nitriding

Abstract In recent years, the metal processing industry has undergone a massive rethinking in terms of energy use. With the phase-out of nuclear energy, Germany wants to take responsibility and embark on a more sustainable path to green electricity. Not only due to the discontinuation of fast-available nuclear energy, but also due to the increasing demand for electrical energy and the geopolitical situation, the costs for production are continuously rising. Furthermore, the use of fossil fuels has come under criticism in the face of current climate policy discussions, and the procurement of fossil fuels such as natural gas has experienced a significant price increase due to the current geopolitical situation. A more efficient use of energy and resources is therefore essential, also with regard to socio- and environmental factors and, in particular, climatic aspects. In this work, a standard industrial gas nitriding process is examined with regard to its key energy figures and potential savings are identified. On the basis of these, the significance of the heating of the components, the insulation technology and other process-relevant energy flows is determined. It was found that, on the basis of conservative calculation models, the heating of these industrial furnaces types is among the largest energy consumers, whereas only a smaller part is required for treating the components. Furthermore, the majority of the electrical power provided dissipates as power loss from the heat treatment process.