Cryogenic Treatment Service for Porsche Engine Blocks

Our cryogenic treatment service is recommended for all MA1/9A1 engine blocks used in Porsche Boxster, Cayman, and 911 models. Engine blocks that are cryogenically treated are more dimensionally stable and residual casting stresses are eliminated with this process that are usually the root cause of piston seizing and resulting cylinder bore scoring in these engines.

Porsche 944/968 and M96/M97 engine blocks/cases/crankcase housings can be cryogenically treated for the same price. Please contact us for more information about having other engine components cryogenically treated.

What are the benefits of cryogenic treatment of aluminum alloys?

Cryogenic treatment of aluminum alloys involves subjecting the material to extremely low temperatures, typically below -100 degrees Celsius (-148 degrees Fahrenheit), for an extended period of time. This process is done to enhance the properties of aluminum alloys, and it can offer several benefits:

1. Increased strength and hardness: Cryogenic treatment can lead to improvements in the hardness and strength of aluminum alloys. This is especially beneficial for applications where high strength and hardness are required, such as in aerospace and automotive components.

2. Improved wear resistance: Cryogenic treatment can increase the wear resistance of aluminum alloys. This is important in applications where the material is subjected to abrasive or erosive wear, such as in cutting tools or engine components.

3. Enhanced dimensional stability: Cryogenic treatment can reduce the dimensional instability of aluminum alloys, which is particularly useful in precision engineering applications where tight tolerances are required.

4. Residual stress relief: The cryogenic treatment process can help relieve residual stresses that may be present in aluminum alloys, which can improve the overall stability and performance of the material.

5. Increased durability and longevity: Cryogenically treated aluminum alloys tend to have improved durability and a longer lifespan due to the enhanced material properties.

6. Reduced distortion and warping: Cryogenic treatment can minimize distortion and warping during subsequent machining or heat treatment processes, resulting in better overall part quality.

7. Greater fatigue resistance: Aluminum alloys that have undergone cryogenic treatment may exhibit improved resistance to fatigue, making them suitable for applications that involve cyclic loading.

8. Enhanced electrical conductivity: In some cases, cryogenic treatment can improve the electrical conductivity of aluminum alloys, which can be advantageous in electrical and electronic applications.

It's important to note that the specific benefits of cryogenically treating aluminum alloys can vary depending on the alloy composition, the treatment process, and the intended application. Not all aluminum alloys will respond to cryogenic treatment in the same way, so it's essential to consider the material's properties and the application requirements when deciding whether cryogenic treatment is beneficial. Additionally, cryogenic treatment is just one of several techniques used to enhance the properties of materials, and its effectiveness should be evaluated in the context of the overall manufacturing process and design considerations.

Do other materials or alloys benefit from cryogenic treatment?

Yes, cryogenic treatment can be used on a wide range of materials and alloys beyond aluminum. While the specific benefits and effectiveness of cryogenic treatment can vary depending on the material and its composition, it has been applied to various metals, plastics, and other materials with the goal of improving their properties. Here are some examples:

1. Steel: Cryogenic treatment is commonly used for various types of steel, including tool steel, stainless steel, and carbon steel. It can enhance hardness, wear resistance, and dimensional stability. Tool steel, in particular, benefits from cryogenic treatment to increase its lifespan and improve performance in cutting and machining applications.

2. Cast iron: Cryogenic treatment can improve the microstructure and mechanical properties of cast iron, making it more wear-resistant and less prone to cracking.

3. Plastics and polymers: Some plastics and polymers can benefit from cryogenic treatment to reduce internal stresses and improve their dimensional stability. This can be useful in industries where precision and tight tolerances are crucial.

4. Copper and copper alloys: Cryogenic treatment can enhance the electrical conductivity and mechanical properties of copper and its alloys. It is often used in the production of electrical components and connectors.

5. Titanium alloys: Cryogenic treatment can increase the strength and fatigue resistance of titanium alloys, making them more suitable for aerospace and medical applications.

6. Nickel-based alloys: Materials like Inconel and Hastelloy, which are used in high-temperature and corrosive environments, can benefit from cryogenic treatment to improve their resistance to wear and corrosion.

7. Composites: Some composite materials, such as carbon fiber composites, can undergo cryogenic treatment to reduce internal stresses and improve their strength and stiffness.

It's important to note that the specific benefits of cryogenic treatment can vary depending on the material's composition, its intended application, and the treatment process parameters (e.g., temperature and duration). Cryogenic treatment is often used in conjunction with other heat treatment processes to achieve the desired material properties. As with any material treatment, careful consideration of the material's characteristics and the intended application is essential to determine whether cryogenic treatment will be beneficial.