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Introduction

Hardness testing is an essential method for evaluating the mechanical properties of materials. It provides critical information such as:

Hardness Value: Indicates the material's resistance to deformation, typically measured in various scales (e.g., Rockwell, Brinell, Vickers).
Wear Resistance: Assesses how well the material can withstand surface wear under operational conditions.
Strength Correlation: Offers insights into the relationship between hardness and other mechanical properties, such as tensile strength.
Material Comparison: Facilitates the comparison of hardness values across different materials, aiding in material selection.
Quality Control: Ensures that materials meet specified standards and performance criteria in manufacturing processes.

Principle

Hardness testing involves applying a specific load to a material's surface and measuring the resulting indentation or plastic deformation to assess its hardness. Different testing methods use varying principles and are chosen based on the indenter shape, load size, and material properties.

Rockwell Hardness (HR) Principle: A preload is applied, followed by a larger main load. The hardness is based on the depth of the indentation after removing the main load. Shallower indentations indicate harder materials. Usage: Common for metals and medium-hard materials.

Hardness testing is a method used to assess a material's resistance to deformation and wear, typically by measuring the hardness value of the material's surface.

Common hardness testing methods include Rockwell hardness testing, Brinell hardness testing, Vickers hardness testing, and Shore hardness testing.

The units of hardness values depend on the testing method; for example, Rockwell hardness is expressed as HRC or HRB, Brinell hardness as HB, Vickers hardness as HV, and Shore hardness as Shore A or Shore D.

Hardness testing is applicable to a variety of materials, including metals, plastics, ceramics, and composites.

Applicable industries

Applicable materials type

Metals: Hardness testing evaluates strength and wear resistance in metals like steel, aluminum, and copper, guiding their use in manufacturing and structures.
Plastics: Used to assess durability and performance, supporting product design and quality control.
Ceramics: Measures strength and wear resistance for applications like tiles, dental tools, and industrial parts.
Composites: Helps determine mechanical properties, important in aerospace and automotive sectors.
Rubber: Assesses elasticity and durability, key for products like tires and seals.
Construction Materials: Ensures materials like concrete meet strength and durability standards.

Industrial Application

Manufacturing: Ensures materials meet design and quality standards.
Automotive: Evaluates strength and wear resistance of parts for safety and reliability.
Aerospace: Supports material selection for extreme conditions.
Medical: Verifies safety and performance of medical and dental materials.
Electronics: Assesses durability of components for stable operation.
Construction: Checks strength and durability of materials for structural safety.

1. Caption: Example of Hardness Testing results.

Sample	1		2		3
Depth (in)	Measured HV0.5	Converted HRC	Measured HV0.5	Converted HRB	Measured HV0.3	Converted HRB
0.004	852	66	258	24 (HRC)	203	94
0.008	831	66	214	24 (HRC)	203	94
0.012	870	66	227	98	229	98
0.016	843	65	222	97	223	97
0.020	817	65	209	95	230	98
0.024	804	64	194	94	208	96
0.028	826	65	210	95	216	96
0.031	852	66	217	96	224	97
0.035	852	66	217	96	224	97
0.039	812	64	200	94	226	98
0.059	814	65	212	95	229	98

Technical Parameters

Sample Size: The sample should be of sufficient size to allow for proper testing. Generally, the thickness and diameter must meet the standards of the specific testing method being used.
Surface Finish: The surface of the sample should be smooth and free from significant scratches, dents, or other defects to ensure accurate test results. Polishing or grinding may be necessary.
Material Uniformity: The sample should be made of a homogeneous material to avoid discrepancies in hardness due to variations in composition.
Temperature Control: The sample should be at room temperature before testing to prevent temperature fluctuations from affecting the results.
Cleanliness: The surface of the sample should be clean, free from oil, dust, or other contaminants to ensure reliable testing.

The hardness testing machine is a device used to measure the hardness of materials by evaluating their resistance to deformation under applied loads. This method provides essential insights into wear resistance, strength, and durability. Hardness testing is widely employed in industries such as manufacturing, automotive, and aerospace to ensure material quality and performance, aiding in informed material selection and processing decisions.

Regulatory testing

Environmental testing

Data analysis

Regulatory testing

Environmental testing

Data analysis

Sample Requirements

Application Case

Example Result

What our customers are saying

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Frequently Asked Questions

Hardness test

Variant (SKU)

Introduction

Introduction

Principle

Principle

Applicable industries

Applicable materials type

Industrial Application

Industrial Application

Technical Parameters

Regulatory testing

Environmental testing

Data analysis

Regulatory testing

Environmental testing

Data analysis

Sample Requirements

Application Case

Example Result

What our customers are saying

Need precise analysis? Contact us – we'll help you choose the best solution for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Hardness test

Variant (SKU)

Introduction

Introduction

Principle

Principle

What is hardness testing?

What are the common methods of hardness testing?

What are the units of hardness values?

What materials are suitable for hardness testing?

Applicable industries

Applicable materials type

Industrial Application

Industrial Application

Technical Parameters