Case hardening is a material processing method that is used to increase the hardness of the outer surface of a metal. Case hardening results in a very thin layer of metal that is notably harder than the larger volume of metal underneath of the hardened layer. Case hardening almost always requires elevated temperatures to perform. Through heating, the hardening can be caused by altering the crystal structure of a metal or adding new elements to the composition of the exterior surface of a metal. Since hardening processes reduce formability and machinability, case hardening is typically done once most other fabrication processes have been completed.

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