Does The Environment Affect Microhardness Testing

Because of the light loads utilized in microhardness testing, vibration can contribute to loading accuracy. Even if the part is not impacted during loading, the oscillation of the indenter or the test specimen can cause the indenter to work its way deeper into the part, creating a softer result.

Microhardness testers should be placed on a dedicated, level and free-standing table that is appropriately located away from slamming doors or adjoining walls and tables that might create vibration or movement that is translated through the table.

Microhardness testers often utilize high magnification optical systems to assists operators in defining the small tips of impressions. Dirt in the optical path (the ocular, optical encoder, tube, or objective) can obscure the impression or the measuring lines.

A clean environment helps diminish the chance this occurs. Common sense also goes a long way. Cutting, grinding or polishing samples, for example, should be avoided in the immediate area of the tester.