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Laboratory Testing Inc. (LTI), near Philadelphia, performs hardness testing on metallic materials. The testing methods include a variety of micro-hardness and macro-hardness testing services. Metal hardness testing is performed to ASTM specifications as well as other standards and customer requirements for the type of material and application. Our machine shop can prepare all test specimens on-site for speedy turnaround.

What Is Metal Hardness Testing?

Metal hardness testing determines a metal’s strength by measuring its resistance to penetration. Hardness test results can be beneficial when selecting materials because the reported hardness value indicates how easily the metal can be machined and how well it will wear. Hardness testing of metal is routinely performed to assess the value of treatments and coatings.

How Does LTI Conduct Metal Hardness Testing?

LTI’s metal hardness testing is performed using test machines equipped with an indenter that is forced into the test material over a certain amount of time. The shape of the indentor varies by type of hardness test and includes cone, ball, and pyramid shapes. Each test machine uses a different force or load application system and records an indentation hardness value in kilograms-force according to their hardness scales.

Metal Hardness Testing Capabilities at LTI

  • The Rockwell Hardness Test and Superficial Rockwell are performed on castings, forgings, and other relatively large metal products and samples because the tests produce a large visible indentation.
  • The Brinell Hardness Test can be applied to almost any metal and is most commonly used to test castings and forgings with a grain structure too coarse for other types of metal hardness testing.

The Knoop Microhardness Test and Vickers Hardness Test measure small samples or small regions in a sample. They often measure surface or coating hardness on carburized or case-hardened parts and surface conditions such as grinding burns or decarburization. Vickers is also available on the macro scale to 50 kg.

Standards

  • Rockwell – ASTM E18, NASM-1312-6
  • Superficial Rockwell – ASTM E18, NASM-1312-6
  • Brinell – ASTM E10
  • Knoop – ASTM E384, NASM-1312-6
  • Vickers – ASTM E384, ASTM E92
Metal forged parts require ample testing to ensure safety and performance.

The LTI Advantage

LTI’s combination of technical expertise, competitive pricing, and fast turnaround provides an ideal solution for your metal hardness testing needs. Standard turnaround is generally three or more business days, but faster rush services are also available. LTI’s facility is fully staffed to prepare metal hardness test specimens for all types of testing.

  • “LTI rocks!”

    I wanted to thank you guys for really coming through for us. You guys were relentless responding to our requests. LTI Rocks!

    QA Certification Manager

    Titanium Mill

  • “LTI truly cares about their customers”

    LTI has been a trusted partner with unmatched customer service, dependable deliveries, and excellent quality in mechanical and ultrasonic testing for many years. The entire team at LTI truly cares about their customers and I look forward to working with them for a long time.

    General Manager

    Titanium Mill

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    Laboratory Testing Inc. has the capacity and capabilities to handle all your material testing needs in a single location. Since 1984, we’ve aided customers worldwide with accurate nondestructive testing and precise material lab services. Request a quote or contact us today to see how our industry-leading turnaround times can keep your mission-critical approvals moving forward.

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