Low-Temperature Plasma Nitriding of Mini-/Micro-Tools and Parts by Table-Top System

Featured Application Surface modification of mini- and micro-nozzles for dispensing systems. Abstract Miniature products and components must be surface treated to improve their wear resistance and corrosion toughness. Among various processes, low-temperature plasma nitriding was employed to harden the outer and inner surfaces of micro-nozzles and to strengthen the micro-springs. A table-top nitriding system was developed even for simultaneous treatment of nozzles and springs. A single AISI316 micro-nozzle was nitrided at 673 K for 7.2 ks to have a surface hardness of 2000 HV0.02 and nitrogen solute content up to 10 mass%. In particular, the inner and outer surfaces of a micro-nozzle outlet were uniformly nitrided. In addition, the surface contact angle increased from 40 degrees for bare stainless steels to 104 degrees only by low-temperature plasma nitriding. A stack of micro-nozzles was simultaneously nitrided for mass production. Micro-springs were also nitrided to improve their stiffness for medical application.