Horizontal Quench Systems: State-Of-The-Art Approach to Aluminum Solution Heat Treatment

In our previous posts, we explored the science of solution heat treatment and the traditional workhorse of the industry: the drop bottom furnace. In this blog post, we'll dive into the latest solution treatment technology, horizontal quench systems.

A New Approach to Quenching

The legacy equipment for solution heat treatment has traditionally been the drop bottom furnace. This design uses a simple yet effective design that consists of an elevated furnace with a door at the bottom and a quench tank that sits beneath the furnace on a movable platform. The horizontal quench system, on the other hand, places the quench tank in front of the furnace. The load is extracted horizontally, then quickly lowered into the tank, which is in a fixed location.

Evolution of the Horizontal Quench System

The first models of horizontal quench systems were only used for solution treatment of thicker cast parts that could tolerate longer quench times. Recent advancements, however, in sensor and motion control technology, along with improved material handling techniques, have significantly reduced horizontal quench times. Today's horizontal quench systems can achieve quench times as fast as 7 seconds, equalling the quench times of drop bottom furnaces. This design has several advantages, described below.

Advantages of Horizontal Quench Systems

• Lower Capital Cost: These systems are typically more cost-effective than drop bottom furnaces, making them an attractive option for companies looking for high-performance heat treatment without a hefty investment.
• Reduced Footprint: Their compact design requires less floor space, a significant advantage for facilities with limited space.
• Adaptability: They can be customized to accommodate various load sizes and configurations, offering great flexibility for different applications.
• Competitive Quench Times: Horizontal quench systems meet the stringent demands of industries like aerospace and automotive. 

Key Design Features for Rapid Quenching

Horizontal quench systems incorporate several key design features to ensure a reliable and rapid quench:

• Rapid Door Lift: The furnace door is opened quickly, typically in 2 seconds or less, using a high-flow pneumatic or electric lift system.
• Quick Load Transfer: A specialized material handling system extracts the load from the furnace and transfers it to the quench elevator within 2-3 seconds. Smooth motion is crucial to prevent jamming and ensure repeatability.   
• Quench Elevator: The quench elevator is a platform that receives the load from the furnace and rapidly lowers it into the quench tank. A multi-point pickup system prevents the load from tipping during the process.  

Wisconsin Oven’s HQS Series: Leading the Way

Wisconsin Oven is a pioneer in horizontal quench technology. Our HQS Series was the first standardized horizontal quench system on the market, and continues to lead the industry in performance. The HQS line is designed for optimal performance and offers:

• Large Load Capacity: Handles loads up to 12 feet long, and 8,000 lbs or more, accommodating various part sizes and types.
• Rapid Quenching: Quench times as low as 7 seconds.
• Uniform Airflow: High-powered furnace recirculation blower provides rapid heating and even heat distribution, with temperature uniformities of +/-10F or better available.  
• Compliance and Automation: Meets industry standards like AMS2750 and CQI9, with PLC control, data acquisition, and other features available.  
• Industrial IoT: Look for a furnace manufacturer that offers an industrial IoT system for your equipment, for real-time remote problem diagnosis and improved preventative maintenance.

Interested in seeing a Wisconsin Oven Horizontal Quench System in operation? Click the link below:

The Right Choice for Your Needs.

Both drop bottom and horizontal quench systems play essential roles in aluminum heat treatment, and since Wisconsin Oven supplies both types of equipment, we can offer a solution to meet your needs. The choice of technology depends on your solution treat requirements, budget, and space constraints. If you're seeking a cost-effective, space-saving solution with competitive quench speeds and customizable options, a horizontal quench system could be the perfect fit.

Our next blog:  Aluminum Aging: The Final Step in Aluminum Heat Treatment

In our next blog post, we will discuss the final step in the aluminum heat treatment journey: aging. Check back soon to learn how this final heating process transforms the soft, as-quenched aluminum into a high-performance material used to make countless products.

Contact us today to discuss your heat treatment needs and explore how our horizontal quench systems can modernize your aluminum processing capabilities.