The Vickers hardness tester series "Qness" takes Vickers hardness testing to a whole new level. Our high-end models of the latest generation combine short cycle times with maximum precision. Features like the 8-position tool changer, comprehensive software as well as connectivity via Qconnect make this Vickers hardness tester series the optimum choice for customers seeking the most innovative products on the market.
Micro Vickers Hardness Tester Test force range: 0.25 g - 62.5 kg
- Semiautomatic
- Test force range 20 gf – 10 kgf Option: 0.25 gf – 62.5 kgf
- Vickers, Knoop, Brinell,
Option: Rockwell - Manual XY movable cross table
- Fully automated
- Test force range 20 gf – 10 kgf
Option: 0.25 gf – 62.5 kgf - Vickers, Knoop, Brinell,
Option: Rockwell - Very precise XY slide ± 2µm
- Sample image camera
- High-End fully automated
- Test force range 0.25 gf – 62.5 kgf
- Vickers, Knoop, Brinell, Rockwell
- High precision XY slide ± 0.2µm
- Sample image camera
Macro Vickers Hardness Tester Test force range: 0.3 kg - 3000 kg
- Test methods: Brinell, Knoop, Rockwell, Vickers
- Test force range: 0.3 kg - 3000 kg
- Proven concept – redefined
- Ideal for small samples
- Test methods: Brinell, Knoop, Rockwell, Vickers
- Control: C-frame with manual spindel
- Test methods: Brinell, Knoop, Rockwell, Vickers
- Test force range: 0.3 kg - 3000 kg
- Comfortable test head height-adjustment via motor
- All work piece sizes and large clamping forces
Fully Automatic Vickers Hardness Tester Test force range: 0.3 kg - 3000 kg
- Test methods: Brinell, Knoop, Rockwell, Vickers
- Control: Fully automatic
- Test methods: Brinell, Knoop, Rockwell, Vickers
- Control: XYZ table controlled
- With CE cabinet
Background information Vickers Hardness Testing (DIN EN ISO 6507)
Based on the ideas of Smith and Sandland, a hardness testing method was developed in 1925 in the English Vickers works, using a diamond pyramid as the indenter.
A regular four-sided diamond pyramid with a surface angle of 136° is pressed vertically into the preferably polished surface of the test specimen with a certain test load. After a certain exposure time, the test specimen is removed again and the two diagonals (d1 and d2) of the indentation are measured with a measuring microscope. The average length d is then calculated. The Vickers hardness is then determined according to the given formula.
1. Indentation of the diamond pyramid with test force F into the test specimen
2. Measurement of the indentation with diameter d
Calculation of the Vickers hardness
Vickers calculation formula:
Prerequisites for standard-compliant testing
Various prerequisites need to be fulfilled for standard-compliant testing:
Test temperature
- normal requirements: 10°C bis 35°C
- high requirements: 23°C ± 5°C
Workpiece thickness
- t ≥ 1.5 * d with t = sample or layer thickness d = average length of the indentation diagonals
Distances between the indentations and from the edge
- For steels, Cu and Cu alloys
- a ≥ 2.5 * d
- b ≥ 3 * d
For light metals, Pb, Zn as well as their alloys
- a ≥ 3 * d
- b ≥ 6 * d
It is distinguished between the macro, small force and micro hardness range.
Macro Hardness Range General tests on relatively thick components
Recommended test forces |
Name of value |
| 980.70 | HV 100 |
| 490.30 | HV 50 |
| 294.20 | HV 30 |
| 196.10 | HV 20 |
| 98.67 | HV 10 |
| 49.03 | HV 5 |
Small Force Range Tests on thin workpieces, thin surface layers and foils
Recommended test forces |
Name of value |
| 29.42 | HV 3 |
| 19.6 | HV 2 |
| 9.807 | HV 1 |
| 4.903 | HV 0.5 |
| 2.942 | HV 0.3 |
| 1.961 | HV 0.2 |
Micro Hardness Range Measurements at individual structure components
Recommended test forces |
Name of value |
| 0.981 | HV 0.1 |
| 0.490 | HV 0.05 |
| 0.245 | HV 0.025 |
| 0.196 | HV 0.02 |
| 0.098 | HV 0.01 |
Vickers hardness test results
According to DIN EN ISO 6507-1, the result of a Vickers test is given as follows:
700 HV 10 / 20 ⇒ Hardness value as per Vickers
700 HV 10 / 20 ⇒ Abbreviation for Vickers hardness
700 HV 10 / 20 ⇒ Test force specification: Test force [N] = 9.807 * test force specification
700 HV 10 / 20 ⇒ Application time of the test force (omitted if it is between 1-15 s)
measuring hardness depths
The Vickers test is also the preferred method for measuring hardness depths. A distinction is primarily made between the depth of hardening after case hardening (CHD), after nitriding (NHD) and after induction hardening (SHD).
Depth of hardening after case hardening (CHD)
An example of this method is shown in the following image. The case hardening depth (CHD) can also be calculated from the pairs of values.
Distance from the surface [mm] ⇒ Hardness [HV1]
0.1 ⇒ 717
0.2 ⇒ 718
0.3 ⇒ 705
0.4 ⇒ 675
0.5 ⇒ 645
0.6 ⇒ 610
0.7 ⇒ 580
0.8 ⇒ 550
0.9 ⇒ 520
1.0 ⇒ 490
1.1 ⇒ 465
1.2 ⇒ 450
1.3 ⇒ 440
1.4 ⇒ 430
1.5 ⇒ 425
Depth of hardening after nitriding
An example of this method is shown in the following image. The nitriding hardening depth (NHD) can also be calculated from the pairs of values.
Distance from the surface [mm] ⇒ Hardness [HV1]
0.05 ⇒ 1080
0.1 ⇒ 1050
0.2 ⇒ 350
0.3 ⇒ 257
0.4 ⇒ 250
0.5 ⇒ 250
0.6 ⇒ 250
0.7 ⇒ 250
0.8 ⇒ 250
0.9 ⇒ 250
1.0 ⇒ 250
limit hardness GH = core hardness KH + 50 HV
Depth of hardening after induction hardening
An example of this method is shown in the following image. The induction hardening depth (SHD) can also be calculated from the pairs of values.
Distance from the surface [mm] ⇒ Hardness [HV1]
0.1 ⇒ 698
0.2 ⇒ 700
0.3 ⇒ 703
0.4 ⇒ 705
0.5 ⇒ 705
0.6 ⇒ 705
0.7 ⇒ 703
0.8 ⇒ 701
0.9 ⇒ 698
1.0 ⇒ 700
1.1 ⇒ 701
1.2 ⇒ 660
1.3 ⇒ 500
1.4 ⇒ 300
1.5 ⇒ 285
1.6 ⇒ 284
1.7 ⇒ 283
1.8 ⇒ 285
1.9 ⇒ 282
2.0 ⇒ 281
| Target | 58+4 HRC |
| ≈ | 650+100 HV10 |
| ⇒ GH | 85% (650HV) |
| ⇒ GH = | 553 HV |
Vickers Hardness Tester - FAQ
What is Vickers hardness testing?
Vickers hardness testing is a method used to measure the hardness of materials. It involves pressing a diamond indenter with a specific force into the material's surface and measuring the size of the indentation. This test is known for its accuracy and versatility, making it suitable for a wide range of materials, from metals to ceramics.
How does a Vickers hardness tester work?
A Vickers hardness tester works by pressing a diamond indenter into the material's surface with a specific force. The size of the indentation is then measured using a microscope or an automated system. The hardness value is calculated based on the indentation size and the applied force.
What are the applications of Vickers hardness testing?
Vickers hardness testing is used in various industries, including aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing. It is essential for quality control, material selection, and research and development. The test helps determine the hardness of materials, which is a critical factor in assessing their wear resistance, strength, and durability.
What are the different types of Vickers hardness testers?
There are two main types of Vickers hardness testers: micro Vickers hardness testers and macro Vickers hardness testers. Micro Vickers hardness testers are used for testing small samples or thin coatings and apply lower forces. Macro Vickers hardness testers are used for testing larger samples and apply higher forces, making them suitable for bulk materials.
Why choose QATM Vickers hardness testers?
QATM Vickers hardness testers offer high precision, user-friendly interfaces, versatility, and durability. They provide accurate and repeatable measurements, making them suitable for a wide range of materials and applications. QATM testers are built with high-quality materials to withstand rigorous testing environments.