Rockwell hardness testing machines

How the Rockwell hardness test works

The testing process is carried out by penetrating a test piece - either in the form of a diamond cone or a hard metal ball - into the material. The penetration depth is then measured to determine the hardness. Various Rockwell scales are used, depending on the material and application. The most common are

• Rockwell C scale (HRC) for hard steels
• Rockwell B scale (HRB) for softer metals such as copper and aluminum
• Rockwell A scale (HRA) for extremely hard materials

Advantages of Rockwell hardness testing

Rockwell hardness testers are characterized by their user-friendliness and versatility. They enable quick and easy hardness testing directly on site or in the laboratory. The tests are virtually non-destructive, which means that the tested materials and test specimens can usually be reused after the test.

Design and function

A typical Rockwell hardness tester consists of:

• A height-adjustable sample support for positioning the test specimen
• A test head with indenter for the measurement

By applying a predefined test force, with which the indenter is pressed into the material in two force stages and the subsequent measurement of the permanent indentation depth, the hardness of the material can be precisely determined.

Areas of application

The results of Rockwell hardness tests are decisive for the safety and reliability of components in various industries. Among other things, they are used in:

• The metal industry - quality assurance of steel and alloys
• The aerospace industry - material testing for safety-critical components
• The automotive industry - testing the hardness of components to ensure safety and durability

Individual advice & customized solutions

Are you interested in one of our hardness testing machines? We will provide you with comprehensive advice and find the right hardness tester for your application. See for yourself during a demonstration!