A hardness test is the ability of a material to resist indentation. Therefore Rockwell hardness test method determines the hardness of a material by measuring the depth of penetration indenter.
Process of Rockwell Method
Rockwell test process includes forcing an indenter on a material under a minor load, and then the depth is recorded. Secondly, the addition of major load, leading to an increase in the previous depth of penetration. Lastly, the removal of the major load, leaving an increased depth penetration. The record of the last penetration depth helps to calculate the Rockwell Hardness Value.
Types of Rockwell Hardness Test Scale
There are two types of Rockwell Hardness Scale. They include:
Polymer Scale
Polymer /plastic scales are types of scales used on plastics or polymers. Those scales include R, M.L, E, and K.
Superficial Scale
There are types of Rockwell Scale that use shallow indenters and lower loads for soft and thin materials.
Why Rockwell Hardness Test
It is cost-effective. Therefore easy on the pocket.
It is a non-destructive and non-invasive process.
It is easier to perform.
It has no optical evaluation.
It requires no preparations for the test to take place.
Conclusion
Depending on the requirements you have, there are a variety of Rockwell Methods available to choose one. Production specialists can benefit from the Rockwell method to determine their durability and how strong they are. If you need to determine a material’s durability, the Rockwell Hardness method is just what you need.