Q. Is the cryogenic treament a coating process?

A. No, the cryogenic process is a one-time, permanent treatment affecting the entire object. It is not a surface coating. The item is chilled to -300 degrees Fahrenheit using a dry nitrogen atmosphere. This has an effect on the entire structure of the part at the atomic level. You should never have to re-cryognically treat a part unless it has been reheated to its fluid state.

Q. How long does the process take?

A. A typical treatment cycle will take a minimum of 24 hours. Turnaround times average two days (excluding shipping time), but will depend on scheduling, quantity and size of the order. Large or heavy items, those exceeding 3' x 2' or weighing over 100lbs, may require special handling or longer run times. Please call for more information on large or heavy items.

Q. Do you immerse the parts in liquid nitrogen?

A. No. Our process is completely dry. Parts never come in contact with liquid.

Q. Should I sharpen my tools before they are cryogenically treated?

A. No, it is not necessary. Tools may be processed sharp or dull. And since cryogenics is a one-time treatment affecting the part to the core, you can re-sharpen the tool as many times as necessary without having to re-cryogenically treat the part. Therefore, you may wish to treat new tools or tools that have not been worn excessively to obtain the maximum amount of life for the least amount of cost.

Q. Even though my cutting tools will last longer, can I expect the same performance?

A. Yes, absolutely. In fact, a treated part or blade will not only last longer, it will also obtain and hold a superfine edge not normally achievable prior to treatment.

Q. Will the cryogenic process increase hardness?

A. No. There is no significant increase in the hardness of treated parts. Some metals may see 1 or 2 points of increase on the Rockwell scale. More importantly, though, the part becomes more uniform and the hardness becomes consistent throughout the part.

Q. Metals are a given, but what other materials will benefit from cryogenics?

A. Cryogenics is not the answer to everything, but it is very effective on all steels, alloys, and other metals as well as carbon fiber, kevlar, some plastics and polymers. Electronics is also on the list. Many other materials are under experimentation and still others have yet to be considered. If you have an application in mind, let us know. We are constantly trying new things and would be happy to test new products with you.