Case depth measurements on inductionhardened crankshafts by using ultrasonic backscattering method

Abstract: Induction hardening is a complex process that requires regular verification of the case depth and the microstructure. Today this verification is done by destructive testing where a cross section is analysed. The case depth is measured by several Vickers hardness impressions and the microstructure is analysed by a light optic microscope. This master thesis was performed in collaboration with Volvo GTO in Skövde, with the target to find out if an ultrasonic backscattering method is usable for analysing the case depths on induction hardened crankshafts. This was done by verifying the results provided by ultrasonic testing with the results provided by destructive testing. The measurements were done on several crankshafts with different case depths and steel composition. The result, for crankshafts with normal case depths, shows a good correlation between the destructive testing (DT) and the ultrasonic testing (UT). The mean value for the discrepancy was 0.39 mm with a standard deviation of 0.20 mm. The reproducibility of the method has a standard deviation of 0.074 mm.