Hardness Testing

What this topic covers

Localized resistance to indentation using standardized test families.

Core testing ideas

Hardness tests infer material response from an indentation or rebound measurement.

Different hardness scales use different indenters, forces or measurement principles.

Conversions between scales are approximate and material-dependent.

Measurement and method limits

Specimen orientation, preparation, environment and test rate can affect results.

Evidence and traceability

Destructive tests are valuable because they directly measure behaviour, but tested specimens are consumed or altered.

Using the result

Component design decisions require engineering interpretation beyond a laboratory property value.