Abstract
This article presents a comprehensive examination of the electrolytic-plasma hardening (EPH) process applied to 20GL structural steel, a material frequently used in the automotive, transport, and various other industries. The relevance behind this research lies in the necessity to enhance the performance of steels that face high mechanical loads, elevated temperatures, and corrosive environments. Experimental findings reveal that electrolytic-plasma treatment substantially increases the hardness of 20GL steel to approximately 600 HV on average. Additionally, prolonging the heating duration contributes significantly to greater hardness, playing a decisive role in bolstering wear resistance under load. Microstructural analysis confirms the formation of a fine-grained martensitic phase, highlighting the steel’s transformation and strengthening. Furthermore, the study emphasizes that the chemical composition of 20GL steel influences the hardness gradient from the surface inward and leads to the development of finer-grained features in the steel’s microstructure. Overall, the electrolytic-plasma process proves beneficial not only for improving mechanical attributes but also for enhancing reliability and service life of critical components. From an industrial standpoint, this technology is notable for its adaptability and cost-effectiveness, making it an attractive solution for sectors such as automotive manufacturing, construction, and the energy industry. Thus, electrolytic-plasma hardening emerges as a forward-looking method aligned with modern engineering demands, offering a promising avenue for advanced material optimization.