Engineering basis

Brinell, Rockwell and Vickers are common laboratory/shop methods; portable rebound, UCI and portable Brinell methods are used in field inspection.

Standards, grades or methods

Method selection depends on hardness range, thickness, surface condition, indentation size, material homogeneity and applicable code/specification.

Typical applications

Heat-treated steels, welds, pressure equipment, forgings, wear plate, tool steel and incoming material inspection.

Critical checks

Prepare the surface correctly, ensure adequate thickness/support, use calibrated equipment, apply the correct scale/load and avoid converting between hardness scales unless permitted and justified.

Good engineering practice

Use the current governing code or specification and verify manufacturer data, material traceability and project-specific requirements. Where safety, pressure containment or structural integrity is involved, obtain approval from the responsible engineer before changing material, process or acceptance criteria.

Element Folio engineering reference. Requirements vary by standard, project and jurisdiction.