The study of heat treatment has assumed great significance because of the vital role heat treatment plays in achieving the designed characteristics in a given material. This comprehensive and well-organized text skillfully blends the theoretical and practical aspects of heat treatment. It discusses, in rich detail, about heat treatment of commercial steels, cast irons and non-ferrous metals and alloys. The book also offers an in-depth analysis of topics such as nature of metals and alloys; principles of heat treatment of steels; heat treatment processes; possible defects, causes and remedies in heat treatment; and inspection and quality control in heat treatment. This second edition of the successful text has gone through considerable modification on the basis of responses received. Additional figures have been added for greater clarity and understanding. Multiple choice questions and other pedagogically arranged questions help students to assess their subject knowledge. Designed primarily as a text for undergraduate and postgraduate students of Metallurgy, the book is also useful for undergraduate students of mechanical, production, and chemical engineering. Besides, it meets the requirements of students of AMIE/AMIIM, and of diploma level courses in metallurgical and mechanical engineering. Furthermore, the book can serve as an invaluable reference for practising engineers.