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Effective/Total Case Depth:

Case Depth Analysis

We perform case depth analysis per SAE J423 for total and effective case depth. Total case depth is typically measured by sectioning the samples and polishing the surface and etching the sectioned and polished surface with acid to reveal the case depth. Induction hardening patterns are generally revealed that way and measurements are made through stereoscopic analysis. Effective case depth is typically measured by similar procedure with metallographic preparation per ASTM E3 to a mirror finish. The sample is then placed into the automatic microhardness tester and effective case depth is measured and plotted.  

Case depth or case hardening such as carburizing, carbonitriding, nitriding, and nitrocarburizing is specified on many types of parts that require surface fatigue strength and wear resistance. When required by the engineering print it is typically specified with a required case depth. This case depth is specified as either effective or total case. Let us know your needs and we can provide you with fast and accurate results. We can also examine the difference between total and effective case depths in the same component as a measure of the quality of the heat treat operation and give you some feed back.