High-quality, precision heat-treating begins with the ability to maintain close control over furnace atmosphere and temperature.

After purchasing a nearly closed heat treating facility (Anderson Heat Treating in Rockford, Ill.) in 2000, the new owner, Dick Francis set out to build the finest commercial heat-treat shop in northern Illinois focused on heat treating small, high-quality precision work. This presented a considerable challenge due to the condition of the furnaces and controls. The goal was to bring the shop to top-shelf condition by hiring the best personnel and focus on processing small runs of high quality parts not easily handled in large commercial heat treat shops. The philosophy was that exceptional heat-treating quality starts with exceptional temperature and atmosphere control. In this case, the furnaces were equipped with outdated control systems, so the plan was to bring the plant equipment up to date by rebricking and meticulously maintaining all furnaces and upgrading all furnace controls.