Abstract: A multi-station induction heat treatment system is used for heat treating metal workpieces that have multiple generally cylindrical components whose axes are parallel to and offset from a common workpiece axis. The heat treatment system includes heat treatment stations that heat treat while the workpiece and inductor components are stationary. The system is particularly suited to the heat treatment of workpieces, such as crankshafts, that have an intervening non-symmetrically shaped component between two substantially cylindrically shaped components, some of which are not coaxial, that must be heat-treated.

Abstract: The processing apparatus comprises a rotatable barrel supported from a stationary cross bar by a pair of stationary U-shaped hanger arm and collar bearing assemblies of rigid construction, with one assembly opposite each end of the barrel. Inner portions of the collar bearings are received in openings provided in the ends of the barrel and upon which the barrel is adapted to rotate about the axis of the barrel. The outer portions of the collar bearings are located outside of the barrel and are provided with circumferentially extending annular grooves which surround the axis of the barrel. The ends of the U-shaped hanger arms are secured to mounting lugs provided on the cross bar, with the bottoms of the U-shaped hanger arms being located in the grooves and wrapped around the collar bearings. The hanger arms are each secured in two places, one to the corresponding mounting lug and the other to the corresponding stationary collar bearing.