How is the surface of Stainless Steel is Hardened.(Surface Hardness, Case Depth)?

Question

Please let me know the Process details. Name and exact techncalities for Hardening the Surface of Stainless steel? Nitriding may not help as SS carbon Content may be less.

Answer 1

try this link.
http://www.azom.com/details.asp?ArticleID=2819#_Heat_Treatment

Answer 2

Generally, stainless steel is considered a hard surface on it's own and no additional processes are undertaken to increase the hardness. About the only thing that might be possible is a tempering type process to allow the grain patterns in the stainless steel to re-orientate to their natural arrangement and to relieve any stresses.