Test Force Level
The test force level indicates how high the force is with which a measuring head pierces a steel specimen. The higher the force, the deeper the head penetrates the metal and the more accurate the hardness measurement.
Physical-Chemical Mechanism of Action
The test force level refers to the force with which a measuring head pierces steel. This force influences the depth of the hole and thus the accuracy of the hardness measurement. Too high a force can deform or damage the metal, while too low a force may not pierce enough material to allow a representative measurement.
Metallurgical Relevance & Welding Risks
The test force level is critical for the accuracy of the hardness measurement. An incorrect choice can lead to inaccurate results, which in turn leads to errors in material selection or process design. Additionally, too high a force can damage the metal and lead to cracks or deformation.
Workshop Practice & Instructions
For hardness measurement of steel samples, a test force level between 1.5 and 3 kg is used. This range offers a good balance between measurement accuracy and avoiding damage. For particularly hard metal or thick layers, the force can be slightly increased, but always stay below 5 kg.