Materials testing ensures quality by subjecting materials and products to controlled conditions to evaluate properties and behavior under stress. Learn how mechanical, physical, and chemical properties are evaluated to determine suitability for different applications.

A key distinction between Rockwell testers and the Brinell, Vickers and Knoop testers is that the latter three use optical technology, while Rockwell does not—which generally makes it less costly, makes testing quick and easy, and the surface finish of the specimen is not critical. 

This article provides a brief introduction to a dynamic micro-indention measurement technique which can be useful to characterize materials that are hard to analyze using the well-known Vickers and Knoop measurements described in ASTM E364.

This article describes a novel micro-compression instrument and technique for determining the hardness of individual particles using controlled uniaxial compression. Brief examples of the technique used to characterize and compare the hardness of battery anode materials are provided.

Magnetic measurements are suitable to determine mechanical and technical properties of a material especially steel. The magnetic and mechanical properties of a material are determined by the microstructure. 

The purpose of this article is not to review all techniques, but to discuss particularly the application of hardness testing to coatings, typical techniques used, best practices and special considerations to ensure accurate and repeatable results.

Hardness testing is a simple mechanical test developed to provide a quantitative measurement in a quick and efficient manner. Hardness testing is used in place of other techniques such as tensile testing as it can be correlated with tensile strength but requires significantly less time and effort, as well as being comparatively nondestructive.

Component manufacturers across the manufacturing spectrum—such as in automotive, aerospace, electronics, medical, energy and other fields—must ensure that their parts meet engineers’ specifications.

The L.S. Starrett Co. has introduced two new digital Rockwell/ Superficial Rockwell Benchtop Hardness Testers (Nos. 3823 and 3824) with fully automated load/ unload procedures, and capable of providing highly accurate readings.

Most of us have had occasion to (or even reluctantly needed to) put a hammer to a nail, which makes the above analogy so relatable.