The IQ-L is a vertically designed system in which the sample is quenched by lowering it into a quenching medium.
Overview Possible configurations
Max temp: 1300 °C, 1600 °C, 1700 °C, 1800 °C
Furnace Ø: 50, 60, 70, 80 mm
Heated length(s): 250, 500, 750 mm
Number of heated zones: 1 and 3 zones
OPERATING PRINCIPLE
1. Positioning and Heating
The sample is positioned centrally inside the ceramic work tube using a wire attached to a hook. In this initial position, the heat-treatment process begins under a defined atmosphere.
2. Separation of the Heating and Quenching Zones
The quench tank is located below the heating zone and is separated from it by a manually operated valve.
3. Activation of the Quenching Mechanism
Once the heat treatment is complete, the valve is opened to provide access to the quenching zone.
The suspension wire is attached to a hook by means of an eyelet. The hook is connected to a rotating mechanism. Manually rotating the hook by 180° releases the eyelet, allowing the sample and suspension wire to drop into the quenching zone.
4. Quenching in the Quench Tank
The sample falls directly into the quenching zone, where it is rapidly cooled in a defined, customer-specific medium.
Possible Quenching Media
- Water - very high cooling rate
- Oil - medium cooling rate
- Gas - comparatively slow cooling rate
Hook design and mechanism for quenching
Hook and gas inlet with furnace entry below
Manual sample release mechanism
The sample is positioned in the center of the furnace's heated zone and suspended from a wire attached to the release mechanism. By manually rotating the release hook, the operator initiates the drop, allowing the sample to fall rapidly into the quenching fluid below.
KEY BENEFITS
- Controlled atmosphere through an inert-gas concept, including water-cooled stainless-steel flanges
- Simple manual operation
- Automated temperature control
