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On Tuesday, November 6, 2018
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Firearm manufacturers have enough to think about these days - their surface finish shouldn’t be one of them. But since it’s such an important factor in the look and functionality of each piece, heat treatment is a critical decision.
There are a number of finishes to choose from; each having various advantages and disadvantages. One of the newer surface treatments available to firearm manufacturers, trademarked by Advanced Heat Treat Corp., is called UltraOx®.
UltraOx® combines the controllable ferritic nitrocarburizing (FNC) process with post-oxidizing and a proprietary sealant.
Whew.
Ok, what’s that mean?
Chemicals are diffused into the surface to generate increased hardness, wear resistance and improved corrosion resistance; UltraOx® is not a coating or painting, so it cannot flake or chip off .
UltraOx® has provided numerous benefits to a variety of industries, including automotive, construction, aerospace and defense. The benefits to the firearm industry are also vast and have been witnessed by manufacturers already using the process.
Our customer, a firearm manufacturer, reported that their barrels last 3 times as long with UltraOx!
Here are some more benefits of UltraOx:
- Environmentally friendly - No toxic salts are used that could seep into holes or cracks. This reduces the need for post-process cleaning-saving a step and therefore, time.
- UltraOx doesn’t round-off rifling, offering better trajectory and therefore more accuracy
- Provides exceptional corrosion resistance while protecting against scratches, meaning minimal upkeep
- Allows for masking (or selective hardening). It is used to keep certain areas from being hardened
- Enhances lubricity
- Can be used on titanium and ferrous alloys, including stainless steels.
- Provides protection from galling and abrasion
- Outperforms nickel plating, chrome plating, QPQ/Salt Bath/Black Nitriding
- Is a final step/process - parts can be assembled immediately upon completion
UltraOx® is available at Advanced Heat Treat Corp.’s Alabama, Iowa and Michigan locations. Request your sample today at www.ahtcorp.com or call 319.232.5221.
- firearms
- ultraox®