Microhardness Testing and Analysis Services

Microhardness testing evaluates a material’s resistance to localized plastic deformation under a series of light precision loads. This specialized metallurgical analysis is critical for testing small components, thin sheets, distinct microstructural phases, or determining the case hardness depth of heat-treated surfaces.

Our laboratory performs high-precision microhardness testing to verify raw material properties and validate manufacturing treatments in strict compliance with industry specifications.

Primary Testing Standard All microhardness evaluations are performed and calibrated in strict accordance with ASTM E384: Standard Test Method for Microindentation Hardness of Materials.

Choosing the Right Microhardness Method

While both techniques utilize low-force diamond indenters, they are optimized for entirely different material types and geometries:

The Vickers Microhardness Method

The Vickers test uses a square-based pyramid diamond indenter to create a symmetrical, square impression. Because the indenter geometry remains constant across all load scales, it creates a continuous and highly versatile hardness profile.

• Best Used For: Testing a exceptionally wide range of metallic alloys, microstructural phases, and welded joints.
• Key Advantage: The geometric scale allows for direct comparison of hardness values across a broad spectrum of light-to-heavy loads.

The Knoop Microhardness Method

The Knoop test uses an elongated, rhombohedral diamond indenter that creates a long, shallow impression. Because it penetrates much less deeply into the material than the Vickers indenter under the same load, it minimizes structural displacement.

• Best Used For: Extremely brittle materials (such as advanced ceramics or industrial glass), thin metallic sheets, or checking hardness gradients directly adjacent to an edge.
• Key Advantage: Prevents cracking or fracturing in fragile materials, providing highly accurate near-surface hardness readings.