New Guide on Induction Shrink Fitting

Download this free and informative guide to learn how induction is used for shrink fitting applications.

Metals typically expand when heated and contract when cooled. This response to a change in temperature is known as thermal expansion. With induction shrink fitting, you use thermal expansion to fit or remove parts. A metal component is heated to 150-300 °C (305-572 °F), and that causes it to expand. This allows for the removal or insertion of a part.

For example, for disassembly, induction is used to create thermal expansion to loosen the joint. For assembly, one part might be heated until its diameter expands sufficiently for it to fit over the other part of the assembly. Then, the heated part cools and the joint is strong, which is “shrink fitting.”

A wide array of metals are used when shrink fitting, whether it’s steel-to-steel, steel-to-copper, aluminum-to-steel, etc.

Why Use Induction for Shrink Fitting?

Induction heating delivers several benefits when shrink fitting. Repeatability, accuracy, energy efficiency and speed are four hallmarks of induction heating for virtually any application. Additionally, induction delivers heat to the targeted part, not the atmosphere around it, so there is no risk of distortion. Safety is another considerable benefit, as there is no open flame, which makes it a viable option for almost any manufacturing environment. With induction, temperature can be controlled in a precise manner, so clients enjoy consistency with ramp up times and holding temperatures. Finally, induction systems are conducive to integration into automated processes thanks to its comparatively modest size and remote

workheads.

What Industries Use Induction for Shrink Fitting?

Shrink fitting is used for countless automotive applications, including shrink fitting bearings, motor housings, gears to shafts, carbide rings into valve seats and more. Induction shrink fitting is also commonly used in numerous industries including the aerospace and rail industries.

Download our guide to learn more!