The Timken Co. has collaborated with the Robert Bosch Co. to produce a steel that is easier to machine. Timken engineers developed a hot-rolled temper process to produce steel that Bosch could more readily machine
for a diesel fuel injector on truck engines.
"This collaboration illustrates Timken's ability to custom-design materials and offer value-added solutions that optimize the performance of customers' applications," said Linn Osterman, vice president of sales and marketing in Timken's Steel Group.
Bosch previously used a low-alloy steel that was hot-rolled annealed at its plant in Charleston, S.C. This process produced steel with a high surface-to-core hardness gradient that was difficult for Bosch to machine. Excessive metal buildup on the tool edges ultimately led to reduced drill and tool life.
In 2005, Timken suggested a hot-rolled temper process that would produce steel that would machine more efficiently and respond more effectively during Bosch's heat-treatment process. This hot-rolled process would produce tempered steel with a higher hardness and significantly reduce the temperature required for heat treatment.
After conducting machining trials and component testing, Bosch confirmed the improved machinability of the steel utilizing the Timken process.