Dehydrogenation: what is it and why is it essential in metals?

In the field of galvanic and surface treatments of metals, dehydrogenation is a fundamental process to guarantee the resistance and reliability of metal components. But what exactly does this treatment consist of? And what are its main advantages and applications? Let's find out.

What is dehydrogenation?

Dehydrogenation is a heat treatment used to remove hydrogen absorbed by metals during manufacturing processes such as galvanizing, plating, welding, or cold forming. During these processes, hydrogen atoms can enter the crystalline structure of the metal, causing a phenomenon known as hydrogen embrittlement. This condition compromises the mechanical properties of the material, reducing its strength and increasing the risk of premature fractures.

To eliminate trapped hydrogen, metal components are subjected to a controlled heat treatment, generally up to 220°C, for a period that varies based on the type of metal and its characteristics. This process allows hydrogen to diffuse and escape from the metal structure, restoring its original mechanical properties.

The importance of this treatment

Dehydrogenation is essential for several reasons:

• Prevention of hydrogen embrittlement: the removal of hydrogen prevents the formation of cracks and fractures in the metal, ensuring greater durability and resistance.
• Structural reliability: in sectors where safety is essential, such as aerospace, automotive and oil & gas, dehydrogenation treatment is essential to avoid sudden failures.
• Maintenance of mechanical properties: it allows the original characteristics of the metal to be preserved, ensuring that the treated material can withstand high mechanical stress.
• Compliance with industrial standards: many international regulations, such as ISO 2081, require the application of dehydrogenation to guarantee the quality and safety of metal components.

Applications of dehydrogenation

Dehydrogenation treatment is used in many industrial sectors:

• Automotive industry: elements such as screws, bolts, springs and other components subjected to galvanic treatments must be dehydrogenated to avoid structural failure.
• Aerospace industry: critical components used in aircraft must be free from hydrogen embrittlement to ensure safety and longevity.
• Oil & Gas: pipes and metal elements used in extreme environments are subjected to dehydrogenation treatments to better withstand stress.
• Naval and railway industry: many metal parts of means of transport must undergo this treatment to increase their resistance and durability over time.
• Tool and equipment manufacturing: high-strength metal tools and devices require dehydrogenation to avoid sudden breakage during use.

Conclusions

Dehydrogenation is an essential treatment to ensure the quality and safety of metal components. By eliminating trapped hydrogen, it is possible to prevent brittleness and ensure the mechanical resistance of the material. For this reason, companies that operate in highly regulated sectors with high reliability requirements regularly adopt this treatment for their products.

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