Argon Oxygen Decarburization (AOD)

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What is Argon Oxygen Decarburization (AOD)?

Argon Oxygen Decarburization (AOD) is a refining process for ferrous metals such as stainless steel that improves alloy performance through tight chemistry control and high levels of metal purity.

The AOD refining process produces steel with low carbon (0.025% or less) and low silicon and sulfur levels.  This results in improved properties such as:

  • Weldability (reducing weld electrode use by over 50%)

  • Corrosion resistance

  • Strength

  • Malleability

  • Heat resistance

Customers can request AOD in their specifications to significantly improve alloy performance.

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MetalTek offers AOD at Carondelet (capacity of 10,000 lbs./4,550 kg), Sandusky International (capacity of 40,000 lbs./18,200 kg), and Wisconsin Centrifugal (capacity of 12,000 lbs./5,450 kg).  Our AOD process has been refined with years of expertise.  We control costs by capturing and reusing machine chips and recycle raw materials with guaranteed high purity.  Contact us to learn more.