In general, the hardening process can also be carried out as a combination process. During this process, different heat treatment steps are carried out, either alone or in combination with other heat treatment steps. These include, for instance
- Hardening + annealing
- Tempering
- Surface hardening and annealing
- Case hardening and annealing
The individual heat treatment steps are listed according to the sequence in which they are carried out, such as “hardened and annealed”. Correct designations must also be ensured in accordance with DIN EN ISO 4885.