Quench and Temper Operator
やきいれやきもどしこう
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
A job that uses heat treatment furnaces to perform quenching and tempering on metal parts, adjusting mechanical properties such as hardness and toughness.
Description
The quench and temper operator operates heat treatment furnaces, heats metal parts followed by rapid cooling (quenching), and then reheats them at appropriate temperatures (tempering). Quenching imparts hardness, while tempering improves toughness. The process requires managing furnace temperature, time, and cooling media selection. It also involves checking metal structures using hardness testers and microscopes, recording data, and complying with quality standards. With the introduction of new materials and automated equipment, specialized knowledge in metal structure control and precise work are essential.
Future Outlook
With the advancement of manufacturing, automation, and the spread of next-generation materials, the expertise in heat treatment technology will become even more important, and stable demand is expected. Automation of process control and introduction of AI-based quality monitoring technology are progressing.
Personality Traits
High Concentration / Meticulous / Strong Sense of Responsibility
Work Style
Career Path
Junior Heat Treatment Operator → Senior Heat Treatment Operator → Manufacturing Engineer (Heat Treatment Specialist) → Quality Control Engineer → Process Development Engineer
Required Skills
Furnace Operation Skills / Hardness Measurement / Knowledge of Mechanical Properties of Metal Materials / Temperature and Time Management
Recommended Skills
Knowledge of JIS Standard Tests / Machining Knowledge / Quality Control
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | High accuracy is required in managing temperature and time. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Due to long hours of standing work and handling heavy objects. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Primarily follows procedures, with little opportunity for creativity. |
Related Qualifications
- Metal Heat Treatment Skills Certification
Aliases
- Heat Treatment Worker
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