What Is The Hardness Test?

Hardness Test

A hardness test measures the material's resistance to deformation, typically by indentation, and is a key indicator of a steel's strength and wear resistance. Common hardness tests used in steel processing include the Brinell, Rockwell, and Vickers methods, each applying a specific force and indenter type to assess surface hardness. Hardness is influenced by factors such as alloy composition, carbon content, and heat treatment processes like quenching and tempering.