Quenching methods

Quenching methods involve rapidly cooling a material, typically metal, to alter its properties such as hardness and strength. The process usually involves heating the metal to a high temperature and then immersing it quickly into a cooling medium like water, oil, or air. Each medium cools at a different rate, affecting the final characteristics—water cools the fastest, producing the hardest but most brittle metal. Quenching is essential in manufacturing to enhance durability and performance of metal parts, such as tools, gears, and automotive components.