You can obtain a surface hardness approaching Rc 65, as measured with a test file. Depth depends on the type of nitriding--gas, salt or ion. With gas, .010" case is typical, with salt, .001" is typical. Ion can cover both of these ranges. Nitriding on carbon or low alloy steel will improve resistance to atmospheric corrosion; the opposite is true with nitrided stainless.
There are other ways to surface harden this alloy also. One is forming TiC on the surface using C from the alloy. I have seen this done on curring blades.
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Still trying to help you stop corrosion.
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