USA Bearing Manufacturer Invests in LPC Technology

According to this very interesting press release a substantial USA bearing manufacture has invested in two new LPC (Low Pressure Carburizing) systems from SECO/WARWICK USA, although at the time of this posting “The Monty” is unsure of who the end customer is. Further down read the claimed advantages of LPC heat treatment for bearings;
 
SECO/WARWICK USA has received orders for two identical Vector single chamber vacuum furnaces from a major U.S. bearing manufacturer, reinforcing the company’s position as a leading provider of advanced heat-treatment technology in the North American market.
 
Each furnace features a 36″ × 36″ × 48″ hot zone, 15-bar high-pressure gas quench (HPGQ), and a horizontal loading configuration, delivering the versatility required for precision heat treatment of bearing components. The low-pressure carburizing (LPC) furnace design, known for performance and process repeatability, provides a scalable platform for both production throughput and metallurgical consistency.
 
Identical Furnaces, Different Applications; One furnace will augment production capacity at an established aerospace-grade component facility, while the second unit will support a newly acquired plant undergoing a multi-year modernization program. The latter site will use the furnace for a mix of production, specialty geometries, and potential R&D applications as it transitions from legacy heat-treat equipment to state-of-the-art LPC technology.
 
Both systems include standard SECO/WARWICK options such as a sound enclosure, automatic door, and maintenance platform, as well as customer-specified instrumentation—ensuring compliance with stringent internal quality and traceability requirements.
 
“These contracts demonstrate how manufacturers continue to invest in advanced LPC technology to enhance throughput, improve metallurgical performance, and ensure long-term processing reliability,” said Piotr Zawistowski, Managing Director of SECO/WARWICK USA. “We are proud to support this customer’s growth and modernization strategy with equipment designed for the highest levels of precision.”
 
Advantages of Low-Pressure Carburizing for Bearings; LPC is favored for high-performance bearings and precision parts due to its superior metallurgical results and efficiency compared to traditional atmospheric carburizing: 
  • Reduced Distortion: The vacuum process minimizes part deformation, which reduces or eliminates the need for expensive post-heat treatment machining.
  • Superior Quality: It avoids intergranular oxidation (IGO) and surface oxidation, leading to a cleaner, more uniform case-hardened layer.
  • Process Control: The use of vacuum furnaces and precise gas control (boost and diffuse steps) allows for exceptional control over the case depth and carbon profile, ensuring repeatability.
  • Environmental Benefits: It is a more environmentally friendly process, with lower energy consumption, no CO₂ emissions, and elimination of oil or salt bath residues.