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Rockwell Hardness Testing-Sample preparation

by Linda Vanasupa

Introduction

If the size of test specimens exceeds what can accommodated by the anvils, you will need to cut your specimen using one of several cutting methods. [link to cut off, band saw, hack saw].

Parts

No parts specified.

  1. Specimen size is limited by the range of travel for the indenter. The specimen shape must be matched with an anvil to provide a stable horizontal surface for the indenter.
    • Specimen size is limited by the range of travel for the indenter.

    • The specimen shape must be matched with an anvil to provide a stable horizontal surface for the indenter.

    • For more information on how to test large specimens or the inside of a cylindrical specimen, see the ASM Handbook On-line.

  2. Choose and anvil on which your sample can rest to produce a stable, horizontal surface for the indenter. Angled anvils accommodate cylindrical specimens.
    • Choose and anvil on which your sample can rest to produce a stable, horizontal surface for the indenter.

    • Angled anvils accommodate cylindrical specimens.

    • Flat anvils accommodate specimens that are more like a prism.

  3. As a rule of thumb, the thickness of the test sample should be 10 times the depth of the indentation.
    • As a rule of thumb, the thickness of the test sample should be 10 times the depth of the indentation.

    • If you are testing a case hardness, the case should be 10 times as thick as the depth of the indentation.

    • To determine the Rockwell test needed for your sample conditions, consult this table.

  4. The specimen should be dry and free of debris.
    • The specimen should be dry and free of debris.

    • The area where you will test on the specimen should be free of scale.

    • To remove scale, use a grinder to reveal the underlying metal.

Finish Line

Linda Vanasupa

Member since: 02/11/2015

22 Guides authored

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