Surface Methods
Portable hardness testing for field and shop inspection of metals and welds.
Overview
Hardness testing quantifies how resistant a material is to permanent shape change under a compressive force. Common industrial methods include Brinell, Vickers, Rockwell, and ultrasonic contact impedance (Microdur-type) techniques.
Leeb (rebound) hardness testing for quick field measurements.
Methods
- Brinell, Vickers, Rockwell — indentation-based methods that leave a small mark; require a clean, prepared surface
- Microdur / UCI — measures hardness from changes related to the micro-indentation area; typically needs a near-mirror finish
Use Cases
Verification of heat treatment, material condition after welding or processing, and compliance with client or code hardness limits.