Hardness Testing Machine
A device used to measure the hardness of materials by applying a known test force and evaluating the indentation optically or by depth measurement.
Physical-Chemical Mechanism
The hardness tester measures the strength of a material by applying a known force to a sample and measuring the degree of deformation or the depth-related extent of the indentation. This value is then converted into a hardness number.
Metallurgical Relevance & Welding Risks
The hardness of a material is crucial for its toughness and service life. Incorrect hardness methods or inadequate calibration of the testing equipment can lead to erroneous readings, which in turn can cause wrong decisions regarding material selection or welding procedures.
Workshop Practice & Procedures
Ensure that the hardness tester is regularly calibrated and that the reference block is used correctly. Use the appropriate test force and method for each material class. Record the exact readings and compare them with the specific hardness limits of the material.