Understanding the different hardness testing types and systems can be useful to determine an optimal solution. Hardness testing functionality has evolved and now users can dial into world-class instrumentation which more closely aligns with their applications at hand.
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Hardness Testing Defined
One of the most common indentation hardness tests used today is the Rockwell hardness test, and although less widespread, the Brinell and Vickers hardness tests are also utilized. The majority of indentation hardness tests measure the deformation that occurs when the material being tested is penetrated with an indenter. Two levels of force are applied to the indenter at specified rates and dwell times when performing a Rockwell hardness test. This is different than the Brinell and Vickers tests, where the size of the indentation is measured after the indentation process. The Rockwell hardness of the material is based on the difference in the depth of the indenter at two specific times during the testing cycle. The value of hardness is calculated using a formula that was derived to yield a number falling within an arbitrarily defined range of numbers known as a Rockwell hardness scale.
Regardless of the Rockwell scale or indenter being used, the overall Rockwell test procedure is the same. The indenter is brought into contact with the material to be tested, and a preliminary force (a.k.a. the minor load) is applied to the indenter. The preliminary force is usually held constant for a set period of time (dwell time), after which the depth of indentation is measured. After the measurement is made, an additional amount of force is applied at a set rate to increase the applied force to the total force level (a.k.a. the major load). The total force is held constant for a set time period, after which the additional force is removed, returning to the preliminary force level. After holding the preliminary force constant for a set time period, the depth of indentation is measured a second time, followed by the removal of the indenter from the test material. To calculate the Rockwell hardness number, the measured difference between the first and second indentation depth measurements, “h,” is used.
If using an older Rockwell hardness system, the operator may have to manually control most or all of the test procedure steps. The majority of today’s newer machines automatically perform the entire test. Also, when leaving a mark or indentation is not an option, nondestructive ultrasonic technology can be used.
Rockwell Hardness
When testing the hardness of carbon steel, alloy steel, cast iron, non-ferrous metals and engineering plastics, digital Rockwell benchtop hardness testers can be used to directly measure the most popular regular Rockwell hardness scales and can quickly convert that hardness value into HB, HV, HK and many other scales. Desirable hardness tester features include the ability to obtain ultra-precise results, a wide measuring range, and scale/ selectable test force capabilities. Also, automatic main test force loading/unloading, a high resolution digital display and USB data storage are all very advantageous.
A user-friendly touchscreen interface can speed operations and the ability to use USB output to a flash drive is excellent for data mobility. There are options to apply the weight load such as on digital systems that use weights to apply the load or use a closed loop load cell to apply the weight load. The latter affords greater precision and repeatability. With a weight loaded system, the level of the machine is of great importance, so that the weights drop correctly. This is a less critical matter when using a load cell system.
This hardness tester with fully automated load/unload procedures offers highly sensitive and accurate readings.
Conforming to ASTM E-18 Superficial Rockwell Hardness standards, hardness testers in this category offer excellent repeatability in all superficial Rockwell hardness scales. Superficial Rockwell hardness testing is designed for very thin and soft workpieces. The systems are ideally suited for a wide range of environments including inspection labs, heat treat facilities, tool rooms, workshops and laboratories. For more versatility, twin hardness testers are capable of testing in all of the regular Rockwell and superficial Rockwell hardness scales.
Dolphin nose systems allow for the hardness testing of inner, as well as exterior, diameters. The systems are generally larger in size than other bench Rockwell systems, offering greater testing heights and depths. Dolphin nose models offer a manual handle that activates the preload system, or an advanced Auto Z-axis preload system. Using the Auto Z-axis preload system, after placing the workpiece in testing position, the operator only needs to press the start button for the machine to complete the testing process.
Brinell Hardness
Brinell hardness testing is commonly used for very large, porous testing of less hard metals, such as castings. Benchtop systems available today can handle the most popular Brinell hardness applications, and incorporate the latest innovative closed-loop technology. A test load is applied via a closed-loop control unit with a load cell to apply weight loads up to 3,000kg, a DC motor and an electronic measurement and control unit. The result is highly accurate Brinell hardness measurements at all test loads up to 0.5%. A common load overshoot or undershoot, also known as traditional dead weight or open-loop, system is eliminated. The absence of mechanical weights not only eliminates friction problems but also makes the equipment less sensitive to misalignments caused by vibrations. The systems are ideal for laboratories, workshops, tool rooms and inspection labs.
Software driven digital optical systems offer advantages over manual microscopes that are supplied with several hardness testing machines. Connected to a PC, laptop or tablet, the operator can push a single button to take automatic and instant measurements. All graphics can be saved, along with test results, in either Word or Excel formats.
Vickers/ Knoop Hardness
Micro Vickers/Knoop hardness benchtop testers are cost-effective options in Vickers hardness applications that are ideal for those who do not perform high volume testing each day. Testing is done on extremely thin/small workpieces, and often used for checking the hardness of layers, or platings and coatings on small parts in a laboratory environment. A high level of preparation is needed for such testing, including but not limited to, a high degree of polishing.
There are three types of turret control including a basic manual turret for changing from optics to indentation and back to optics for measuring. A second type incorporates an automatic turret, giving operators greater freedom to change the turret position by a button on the tester keypad. The most popular Vickers/Knoop Hardness Testers have a turret control option using software to control the entire test with a one-click process using calibrated auto edge detection. Precision video and measurement software also allows for clicking of the indent edges in software, then deriving a hardness reading on screen.
Designed for the accurate hardness testing of small precision parts, thin materials, case-hardened layers and all sorts of steel components, macro Vickers hardness testers utilize larger weight loads of up to 50kg. This type of test bridges the gap between the superficial Rockwell and micro Vickers machines. These systems have a manual turret.
Shore Testers
Shore portable hardness testers are targeted for testing materials such as rubber, soft plastics and leather, and versions are also available for the testing of hard plastics such as bowling balls and hard hats. Electronic durometers for measuring Shore A and Shore D values are designed to fit comfortably and firmly in a user’s hand.
Understanding the different hardness testing types and systems can be useful to determine an optimal solution.
Portable Hardness Testers
There are two popular digital methods of portable hardness testing. The first is “dynamic impact,” based on the Leeb principle of hardness, developed by Dietmar Leeb in the 1970s. A spring loaded impact body is thrust to the test surface, affecting rebound. Initial thrust and rebound speed is measured in a noncontact mode, and is calculated as a Leeb hardness value and then automatically converted to Rockwell C, B, Brinell, Vickers and Shore values. Also, the portable benefit means the tester can be brought to the workpiece, which is especially useful when testing large and/or cumbersome parts. This method has resulted in efficient, fast and accurate portable hardness testing results.
However, when a mark or indentation on the workpiece must be avoided, ultrasonic testing is a great solution. Advanced nondestructive portable hardness testers utilize ultrasonics with ultrasonic contact impedance (UCI) technology, enabling a portable hardness tester to test special surfaces on small and thin workpieces without marking the surface. These units can test metals as thin as 2mm throughout all scales, hard or soft. UCI technology is available on both manual and motorized systems. The motorized probe systems are used for very thin testing of coatings and platings, or surfaces with a very high polish finish.
UCI is based on a 136 degree diamond at the end of a vibrating rod being depressed into the test surface at a fixed load. The difference in ultrasonic vibration frequency is then calculated into a hardness value. The UCI test procedure is slower than the dynamic impact style; however, the UCI method has the advantage of being nondestructive with the ability to test thin and small work parts.
Previously, destructive indentations made on such sample pieces meant the garbage heap for those tested. Using ultrasonics, this is no longer the outcome. These systems have an open architecture and can be calibrated to read any metal, in any hardness scale, with reference samples to perform initial calibration. Ultrasonic portable testing is ideal for applications such as bearings, pistons and valves, among many others. Key industries for this type of testing include aerospace, automotive and medical parts as well as knife blade manufacturing, to name just a few.
Are you in need of a reliable and portable solution for measuring hardness in steel and metal? Our extensive collection of Portable Hardness Tester is specifically designed to fulfill all your hardness testing requirements. With our range of high-quality and versatile testers, you can conveniently assess hardness with precision, anytime and anywhere.
Our Portable Hardness Testers are the perfect tools for professionals in various industries, including manufacturing, construction, and metalworking. We understand the importance of accurate and efficient hardness testing, which is why we offer a comprehensive selection of testers to cater to your unique needs.
An extensive selection is available from low-cost economy models up to advanced models coming with more features. You will find we offer hardness tester in all of the standard scales, including: Rockwell, Superficial Rockwell, Brinell, Vickers, Webster, UCI, Leeb Scales, and often conversions can be done.
The portable hardness tester provided by Qualitest is not only reliable but also user-friendly. Featuring intuitive interfaces and simple controls, they are easy to operate, even for those with minimal training. The compact size and lightweight design enable you to perform hardness testing in various locations, including confined spaces, without compromising accuracy or efficiency.
How Does A Portable Hardness Tester Work?
Portable hardness testers work by measuring the hardness of materials using various methods, such as Rockwell, Brinell, Leeb, Vickers, and Shore scales. These instruments are designed to be lightweight and portable, making them suitable for on-site hardness testing. They can measure the hardness of materials directly on the component, eliminating the need for sample preparation.
There are different types of portable hardness testers, each using a specific method to measure hardness. For example, some testers use the ultrasonic contact impedance (UCI) method, which measures the change in the impedance of an ultrasonic wave when it comes into contact with the material.
Modern portable hardness testers often come equipped with internal storage and apps to set parameters and transfer data for reporting purposes. They are also available in different models and sizes, suitable for various applications and workpieces.
Different Methods of Portable Hardness Testers
Many people wonder and ask, “What is the difference between Rockwell hardness test and Vickers hardness test?”. So, in this chapter, we can explain all methods usually used in portable hardness testers.
1. Rockwell Method
The Rockwell method measures the hardness of a material by applying a specific load to a Rockwell indenter, which then penetrates the test material. The indentation depth left by the indenter is measured, and the hardness is calculated based on the load and the depth of the indentation. This method is commonly used for metals and is available in different scales, such as Rockwell B, Rockwell C, and Rockwell A.
2. Brinell Method
The Brinell method measures the hardness of a material by applying a specific load to a Brinell ball, which then penetrates the test material. The diameter of the indentation left by the ball is measured, and the hardness is calculated based on the load and the diameter of the indentation. This method is commonly used for metals and is available in different scales, such as Brinell 500, Brinell 1500, and Brinell 3000.
3. Leeb Method
The Leeb method is a non-destructive hardness testing method that uses a small, hardened steel ball as the impact body. The ball is dropped from a fixed height onto the material surface, and the rebound height is measured. The hardness of the material is determined based on the rebound height and the height at which the ball was dropped.
The impact body, typically a small, hardened steel ball, is dropped from a fixed height onto the material surface. The ball can bounce off the surface and return to the inside cylinder. The velocity of the return of the impact body is measured, and the hardness of the material is calculated based on the ratio of the rebound velocity of the impact body to its initial velocity after striking the material under test. The Leeb method is beneficial for testing materials with complex shapes or thin sections, as it can be performed quickly and easily without damaging the material.
4. Ultrasonic Contact Impedance (UCI) Method
The UCI method measures the hardness of a material by applying a specific load to a UCI probe, which then penetrates the test material. The change in the impedance of an ultrasonic wave when it comes into contact with the material is measured, and the hardness is calculated based on the change in impedance. This method suits various materials, including metals, plastics, and ceramics.
5. Vickers Method
The Vickers method measures the hardness of a material by applying a specific load to a Vickers-diamond tip, which then penetrates the test material. The size of the indentation left by the tip is measured, and the hardness is calculated based on the load and the indentation size. This method suits various materials, including metals, plastics, and ceramics.
6. Shore Method
The Shore method measures the hardness of a material by applying a specific load to a Shore durometer, which then penetrates the test material. The depth of the indentation left by the durometer is measured, and the hardness is calculated based on the load and the depth of the indentation. This method is commonly used for rubber and plastics, and is available in different scales, such as Shore A and Shore D.
What are the Advantages of Using a Portable Hardness Tester?
Portable hardness testers offer several advantages for industries, making them valuable tools in various applications. Here are some advantages of using portable hardness testers.
1. Lightweight and Portable
Portable hardness testers are designed to be lightweight and compact, making them easy to carry and use on-site. This feature allows quick and efficient hardness testing without needing a dedicated testing facility or laboratory setup.
2. Non-Destructive Testing
This instrument provides a non-destructive method of assessing material hardness. They can measure hardness without causing significant damage or altering the integrity of the tested material. This is particularly beneficial when testing valuable or irreplaceable components, where destructive testing methods would be impractical or undesirable.
3. High Precision
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Portable hardness testers offer high precision and reproducibility thanks to advanced measurement algorithms. This high precision allows for accurate and reliable hardness measurements, ensuring the quality and consistency of the tested materials.
4. On-site Testing
The portability of these instruments allows for on-site or in-field testing. Industries such as construction, mining, and oil refining often require hardness testing in remote locations or during ongoing operations. Portable hardness testers enable quick and convenient testing without the need to transport samples to a laboratory, saving time and resources.
5. Rapid Testing
Portable hardness testers can swiftly measure the hardness of a material in just a matter of seconds, eliminating the need for time-consuming and labor-intensive traditional hardness testing methods. This rapid testing capability saves valuable time and resources, allowing for quicker production processes and faster decision-making.
6. Minimal Sample Preparation
Unlike traditional hardness testing methods requiring extensive sample preparation, portable hardness testers require minimal to no sample preparation, saving valuable time and resources. This feature allows for quick and efficient hardness testing without time-consuming and labor-intensive sample preparation processes.
7. Ease of Use
These instruments are designed to be user-friendly, with intuitive interfaces and simple operation. They often feature digital displays, user-adjustable settings, and automated functions, making them accessible to technicians and operators with varying levels of expertise. This reduces the need for extensive training and ensures consistent and reliable hardness measurements.
8. Cost-Effective
Investing in a portable hardness tester can be a cost-effective solution in the long run due to its efficiency, accuracy, and versatility. While the initial cost of purchasing a portable hardness tester may be higher than traditional hardness testing methods, the savings in time, resources, and labor make it a more cost-effective option in the long run.
9. Data Analysis and Reporting
Modern portable hardness testers often come equipped with advanced software that enables data analysis, storage, and reporting, streamlining the documentation process. This feature allows for quick and efficient data management, enabling users to store, access, and share hardness test results easily.
10. Versatility
Portable hardness testers offer various applications across diverse industries, accurately measuring the hardness of metals, ceramics, and other materials. This versatility allows hardness testing in various environments and applications, ensuring the reliability and accuracy of the tested materials.
Various Applications of Portable Hardness Testers
Portable hardness testers are commonly used in various industries due to their versatility and ease of use. Some of the industries that need portable hardness testers you can see below.
1. Manufacturing
Portable hardness testers are used in the manufacturing industry to measure the hardness of materials used in the production process, helping to ensure the quality and durability of products. This instrument can solve the problem of inaccurate or inconsistent hardness measurements, ensuring that the manufacturing process is efficient and cost-effective.
2. Automotive
Portable hardness testers find widespread use in the automotive industry. They are used to evaluate the hardness of various automotive components, including engine parts, suspension systems, and body panels. Hardness testing helps ensure the durability, performance, and safety of these components, contributing to the overall reliability and quality of vehicles.
3. Metalworking
Portable hardness testers are extensively used in metalworking industries, including foundries, forging shops, and machine shops. They are employed to assess the hardness of metals and alloys, such as steel, aluminum, and titanium. Hardness testing aids in material selection, quality control, and evaluation of heat treatment processes, ensuring the desired mechanical properties and performance of metal components.
4. Aerospace
In the aerospace industry, portable hardness testers are employed to assess the hardness of aircraft components, such as engine parts, landing gear, and structural elements. By measuring hardness, manufacturers and maintenance personnel can ensure that the materials used meet specific requirements and withstand the demanding conditions of flight, enhancing safety and reliability.
5. Electronics
Portable hardness testers are used in the electronics industry to measure the hardness of materials used in the production of electronic devices, helping to ensure the durability and reliability of these devices. This instrument can solve the problem of inaccurate or inconsistent hardness measurements, ensuring that the electronics industry products are safe and reliable.
6. Petrochemical and Oil Refining
In the petrochemical and oil refining industries, portable hardness testers are used to assess the hardness of critical equipment such as pipelines, storage tanks, and pressure vessels. Potential weaknesses or material degradation can be identified by measuring hardness, allowing for preventive maintenance and avoiding failures or leaks that could lead to safety hazards or environmental damage.
In summary, portable hardness testers are used in various industries to solve problems related to inaccurate or inconsistent hardness measurements, ensuring that the products and materials used in these industries are safe, durable, and reliable.
Extensive Range: Choose The Right Type of Portable Hardness Tester for Your Specific Industry
Are you in search of a portable hardness tester tailored to your industry's unique needs? Our extensive range of portable hardness testers offers the perfect solution for your specific requirements.
Our portable hardness tester's extensive selection is available from low-cost economy models up to advanced models coming with more features. These are some types you can choose:
Conclusion and Additional Information
At Qualitest, we are committed to providing you with the highest quality portable hardness tester for steel and other metals. We offer Portable Hardness Testers that meet the highest industry standards, delivering accurate and repeatable results. With our portable hardness tester, you can trust that your hardness testing needs will be met with precision and convenience.
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