Plasma carburization is a process for improving the mechanical properties of iron and steel. A hydrocarbon gas is ionized using thermal energy and a DC glow discharge, and the resulting carbon ions collide with the surface of the metal being worked. The ions become incorporated, forming a carbide surface with improved properties.

This carbon-forming process enables the carburization of metals that conventionally were difficult to work with. Because SDC Tanaka’s plasma carburizer does not use harmful gases, it is safer for the environment than traditional carburization technologies.