The significance of chemical heat treatment
In absolute majority of cases it is the surface layer of the industrial parts and tools that is engaged while working. Chemical heat treatment of steels and oftentimes also other types of materials represent the most frequent treatment that results in the improvement of the mechanical properties of surfaces and the enhancement of the utility properties of parts and tools such as hardness, fatigue strength and resistance to wear and tear. The survey abstract comprises the overview of the chemical heat treatment methods, their categorization in terms of physical metallurgy, conditions under which the process is carried out and the mechanical effects of the processes. It further describes the requirements for the results of the processes and the primary goals of further development of the technologies and devices for their implementation.