You wish to perform Vickers hardness (HV) testing on your materials
Definition of Vickers hardness (HV)
Vickers hardness (HV) testing, also known as Vickers microhardness testing, is an analytical method for assessing the hardness of materials. It is performed using a pyramid-shaped indenter to which a given force is applied for a given time. Vickers hardness is calculated from the size of the indentation left by the diamond.
What are the advantages and applications of this technique?
The main advantage of this analysis method is that it provides accurate results over a wide range of hardnesses. It is particularly useful for testing small parts or areas of fine microstructure.
This technique can be used to check the conformity of a material with technical specifications, to establish hardness filiations on a sample or to adjust the force of the impression applied.
FILAB supports manufacturers in Vickers hardness (HV) testing
What are the applicable Vickers hardness standards?
ISO standards
EN ISO 6507-1: Metallic materials - Vickers hardness test - Part 1: Test method
EN ISO 6507-2: Metallic materials - Vickers hardness testing - Part 2: Verification and calibration of testing machines
EN ISO 6507-3: Metallic materials - Vickers hardness testing - Part 3: Calibration of reference blocks
EN ISO 6507-4: Metallic materials - Vickers hardness test - Part 4: Tables of hardness values
ASTM standards
E384 (Metals) : Standard Test Method for Knoop and Vickers Hardness of Materials
C1327 (Ceramics) : Standard Test Method for VICKERS Indentation Hardness of Advanced Ceramics
Why choose FILAB for Vickers hardness measurement?
Through our three levels of services: analysis, expertise and R&D support, FILAB assists companies in all sectors with their laboratory Vickers hardness measurement needs.
FILAB provides its customers with the know-how and experience of its team, as well as a state-of-the-art analytical facility.
What other hardness measurement methods are available from FILAB ?
Responsiveness in responding to and processing requests
A complete analytical park of 2100m²
Tailor-made support
FAQ
Vickers hardness is calculated by dividing the applied load by the surface area of the indentation. This area is determined from the average of the diagonals of the indentation left by the tip.
Vickers hardness measurement is suitable for a wide variety of materials, including metals, ceramics, plastics and composites, thanks to its extensive range of test forces.
The main difference lies in the indentor used: Vickers uses a pyramid-shaped diamond tip, while Brinell uses a steel or carbide ball. What's more, Vickers is better suited to thin materials or surface layers, thanks to its smaller footprint.
advantages include its versatility for different materials, its high accuracy, and its ability to test small areas, which is ideal for heterogeneous materials or small components sizes.