Description
The design, automation and safety standards of the HICON/H®MDSD¯2 bell annealer and its applications for hot rolled rod and drawn wire are described, with special reference to its high throughput and low utility consumption. The exceptional uniformity of the microstructure and mechanical properties achieved through the improved temperature control is illustrated. The manner by which hydrogen facilitates the decomposition of the drawing lubricant leaving very low levels of residue on the surface of the wire is described.