Indenter
A test piece is a geometrically defined, hard steel core with a carbide or diamond-tipped measuring head. It is used for hardness testing of workpieces.
Physicochemical Mechanism of Action
An indenter consists of a hard metal core and a measuring head, often made of diamond. During hardness testing, the measuring head is pressed into the workpiece under pressure. The depth of penetration reflects the hardness of the workpiece.
Metallurgical Relevance & Welding Risks
Correct hardness is crucial for the functionality and lifespan of a component. Too high or too low hardness can lead to failure or rapid wear. When hardness testing with an indenter, the measurement conditions must be strictly observed to obtain reliable results.
Workshop Practice & Action Instructions
Use an indenter with the appropriate core material and measuring head for the respective workpiece. Press the measuring head into the workpiece under a specified load (e.g., 1500 N). The depth of penetration is measured with a microscope setup. Compare the reading with the hardness scale curve of the workpiece to determine the actual hardness.