Using ultrasonic vibrations, these testers determine hardness without leaving an indent on hardened materials. They only leave minimal damage on softer metal and work on metal as thin as 0.08”. Use the included test block to determine the right amount of force to apply to your probe. To perform a test, press the diamond tip probe into your material and apply consistent pressure for reliable results. These testers are highly precise and convert measurements between Rockwell, Vickers, and Brinell ratings. Measurements are shown on a backlit digital display, so you can read them even in dark or dimly lit areas. Store up to 2,000 readings with their built-in memory or transfer the data to your PC using the USB port. Small enough to carry, take these testers to your material. Their lithium ion (Li-Ion) battery keeps them running for up to six hours before recharging is required.

NIST calibrated test blocks are included to help you understand how to properly press the probe to your material for an accurate result. The test blocks can also be used to recalibrate the device. These testers must be calibrated to the specific hardness scale and material being tested. They come pre-calibrated with five combinations: aluminum on the Rockwell B scale, brass on the Rockwell B scale, steel on the Rockwell C and B scales, and steel on the Brinell scale.

Finding your Brinell hardness doesn’t have to be so hard—these scopes scan and measure indents, then calculate the hardness for you. Accurate and efficient, these scopes replace the need for bulky microscopes and manually measuring and calculating hardness. Connect these scopes to your computer and use the included software to see a live image of the indent on your screen. You can zoom in 4X and adjust the focus to capture a wide range of indent diameters. To fine tune the automatic measurement, simply drag your cursor. Use the software to set test parameters, convert the value to other hardness scales, and validate the test results. The software also marks any measurements that fall out of your set specifications. When you’re finished, you can generate a customizable Microsoft Word or Excel report for your records.

Check your hardness tester for accuracy against a block with a known hardness rating. Each block is tested according to ASTM E10, which checks the hardness at five locations along the block. They include a certificate that lists the block’s actual hardness, as well as each of the five measurements taken during the test. Blocks also include a NIST-traceable certificate that states they’ve passed a test for accuracy.

Each block is marked with their Brinell hardness rating and a serial number.

Determine the hardness of very hard steel. To use, slide a test bar into the tester, place the tester on your surface, and hit with a hammer; a steel ball will make an impression. Measure the impression with the 20X microscope and use the computing disc to determine hardness.