Identify three quenching media that can be used in the heat treatment of metals. - Leaving Cert Engineering - Question b - 2016

In the heat treatment of metals, quenching is a crucial process that involves rapidly cooling the metal to achieve desired properties. Three common quenching media include:

1. Water: This is one of the most commonly used quenching media due to its high cooling rate. It's effective in hardening steel but can lead to warping or cracking if not used carefully.

2. Oil: Oil provides a slower cooling rate compared to water, which reduces the risk of cracking and distortion. Different types of oils can be used, depending on the required cooling rate and specific properties sought in the treated metal.

3. Brine: This is a solution of salt in water, offering a cooling rate faster than water but slower than oil. It is often used when higher hardness is required while still minimizing deformation risks.