Identify three possible quenching media used during the heat treatment of metal. - Leaving Cert Engineering - Question h - 2019

Quenching is a rapid cooling process in heat treatment, and several media can be utilized for this purpose. The following are three possible quenching media used during the heat treatment of metal:

1. Oil: Commonly used due to its slower cooling rate compared to water, allowing for controlled hardening and reducing the risk of cracking.

2. Water: A more aggressive quenching medium that provides rapid cooling, often used for steels that require high hardening. However, it can lead to warping or cracking if not monitored properly.

3. Brine: A solution of salt in water, which cools metals more rapidly than water alone; it is effective for hardening certain types of steels.

Other quenching media can include air cooling, furnace cooling, or lime, but the three listed above are among the most common.