What's the harding process of smart block pins?

The hardening of smart block pins can differ, however with parts made in EU we have following procedure:

We use two cycles to reach a hardness of 42 to 48 HRC

- a hardining cycle with a controlled temperature an increased temperature level which goes up to 1020 to 1050°C
this is also called martensitic or quench hardening or neutral hardening

the moment the temperature reaches 730-900°C (depending on steel type) a transformation of the microstructure into austentite takes place
The second step is to hold this temperature to fully equalize the temperature in the part, above steps take place in a neutral gaz atmosphere
The third step is quenching the part in a cold medium, typically in an acid bath

- a cycle of stabilisation with a temperature of around 450-480°C

This cycle is necessary to find the a balance between hardness and mechanical strength.  This helps us to reach the expected values of double shear strength that are required.

This is again done in a protective gaz environment to prevent oxidation during the process.  tempering reduces the hardness inside the material and makes it more tough