Mathematical and computer modelling of induction hardening

The paper deals with the mathematical and computer modelling of the induction hardening of ferromagnetic bodies. The mathematical description of this non-stationary process consists of two second-order partial differential equations describing the induction heating (time evolution of the electromagnetic and temperature fields) and a theoretically empirical algorithm for mapping the consequent cooling and hardening. The task is solved in the quasi-coupled formulation, with partial respecting the temperature dependencies of all important material parameters. The theoretical analysis is supplemented with several illustrative examples, whose solution was performed by means of combination of professional codes and single-purpose user programs developed by the authors. Important results showing the distribution of hardness as well as particular material components (martensite, ferrite, pearlite) within the hardened body are presented and discussed.