Quench polish quench (QPQ) is a specialized type of nitrocarburizing case hardening that increases corrosion resistance. It is sometimes known by the brand name of Tufftride, Tenifer or Melonite.^[1] Three steps are involved: nitrocarburize ("quench"), polish, and post-oxidize ("quench").^[2]

This process is often used when two or more of the following properties are required in a workpiece:

• wear resistance
• corrosion resistance
• fatigue strength

Common applications of the process are for piston rods of shock absorbers, cylinders and rods for hydraulic systems, pumps, axles, spindles, firearm slides and barrels and valves.^[3]

Process

The process starts with a standard salt bath nitrocarburizing cycle, which produces a layer of ε iron nitride.^[4] Next, the workpiece is mechanically polished; typical polishing processes include vibratory finishing, lapping, and centerless grinding. Finally, the workpiece is re-immersed into the salt quench bath for 20 to 30 minutes, rinsed, and oil dipped. This last step optimizes the corrosion resistance by creating a layer of iron oxide about 3 to 4 micrometers thick.^[5] It also gives the workpiece a black finish.^[3][6]

Corrosion resistance

Field immersion

The chart on the right shows a comparison of corrosion resistance against other surface treatments, based on field immersion tests. Test conditions for the immersion test are full immersion in 3% sodium chloride plus 3 g /L of hydrogen peroxide for 24 hours.^{[citation needed]}

Salt spray test

The chart on the right shows a comparison of the corrosion resistance of surface treated steel automotive steering columns based on the ASTM B117 salt spray test.^{[citation needed]}