The International Federation for Heat Treatment and Surface Engineering (IFHTSE) is a not-for-profit body incorporated in Switzerland in 1972.

     Its members are scientific and technological societies and associations (and certain other equivalent bodies having not-for-profit status) around the world with main or significant interest in heat treatment and surface engineering.

Its functions are to:

• Promote and generate international discussion on important issues in the science, practice and application of heat treating and surface engineering
• Play a central role in the maintenance and coordination of an effective conference activity in the subjects globally
• Unite, and provide a forum for, regular and equal assembly of representatives of its members, i.e. the relevant national societies and associations around the world.

     IFHTSE's authority is a Governing Council, representing all member bodies, which meets annually. An Executive Committee appointed annually by the Council manages the Federation between annual Assemblies of the Governing Council.

     IFHTSE holds a Congress every two years, and a programme of Seminars and other events. Activity Groups address specific issues of interest and importance.

     IFHTSE has Consultancy Status with UNIDO (United Nations Industrial Development Organisation).