Three Major Technical Challenges in Non-metallic Material Hardness Testing and Precise Measurement Solutions

28 11,2025
Jin Cheng
Technical knowledge
With the widespread application of non-metallic materials such as composites, ceramics, and plastics in the aerospace and new energy fields, traditional hardness testing faces numerous technical challenges. This article focuses on three major problems in non-metallic material hardness testing - complex indentation deformation mechanisms, high requirements for surface flatness, and load sensitivity. It also conducts an in-depth analysis of the applicable Rockwell hardness testing parameter setting strategies in combination with international standards such as ISO and ASTM. Additionally, it introduces how the MHRS - 150 high - precision Rockwell hardness tester of Laizhou Jincheng Industrial Equipment Co., Ltd. effectively solves these problems through an intelligent data processing system and automated control, improving measurement accuracy and scientific research efficiency. The content of the article not only provides a professional guide for quality inspection engineers and researchers but also naturally guides users to obtain more detailed technical documents, helping non-metallic material hardness testing reach a new level.
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In recent years, the widespread use of non-metallic materials such as composites, ceramics, and plastics in the aerospace and new energy sectors has presented numerous challenges to traditional hardness testing methods. This article delves into the key technical difficulties in non-metallic material hardness testing and offers practical solutions.

Technical Challenges in Non-metallic Material Hardness Testing

There are three major technical challenges in non-metallic material hardness testing:

  1. Complex Indentation Deformation Mechanism: Non-metallic materials often have complex internal structures, which lead to complex indentation deformation mechanisms during hardness testing. For example, composites may have different fiber orientations and matrix properties, resulting in uneven indentation deformation.
  2. High Requirement for Surface Flatness: The surface flatness of non-metallic materials significantly affects the accuracy of hardness testing. Imperfections such as roughness or waviness on the surface can cause inaccurate indentation measurements.
  3. Load Sensitivity: Non-metallic materials are generally more sensitive to load compared to metallic materials. Small changes in load can lead to significant differences in indentation size and hardness values.
Indentation analysis of non-metallic composite materials

Solutions Based on International Standards

To address these challenges, it is essential to follow international standards such as ISO 6508 and ASTM E18. These standards provide detailed guidelines on parameter setting, indenter selection, and sample preparation for Rockwell hardness testing.

Parameter Setting

According to the standards, the appropriate load and indenter should be selected based on the type and hardness range of the non-metallic material. For example, for softer non-metallic materials, a smaller load and a ball indenter may be used; for harder materials, a larger load and a diamond indenter are more suitable. The loading time and holding time also need to be strictly controlled to ensure accurate results.

Indenter Selection

The choice of indenter depends on the material's properties. Diamond indenters are suitable for hard materials, while ball indenters are more appropriate for softer materials. The shape and size of the indenter also affect the indentation size and the accuracy of the hardness measurement.

Sample Preparation

Proper sample preparation is crucial for accurate hardness testing. The sample surface should be smooth and flat, and the sample thickness should meet the requirements of the testing method. In addition, the sample should be free from internal defects and stress concentrations.

Parameter setting for Rockwell hardness testing of non-metallic materials

The Advantages of MHRS - 150 High - Precision Rockwell Hardness Tester

Laizhou Jincheng Industrial Equipment Co., Ltd.'s MHRS - 150 high - precision Rockwell hardness tester offers effective solutions to the above challenges. It is equipped with an intelligent data processing system and automated control, which can improve the measurement accuracy and research efficiency.

Intelligent Data Processing System

The intelligent data processing system can automatically analyze the indentation data and provide accurate hardness values. It can also perform multi - point data statistical analysis, which helps to reduce the influence of measurement errors and improve the reliability of the results.

Automated Control

The automated control system can automatically complete the loading, holding, and unloading processes, reducing human errors. It can also ensure that the testing process strictly follows the international standards, improving the consistency and accuracy of the measurements.

Operation interface of MHRS - 150 high - precision Rockwell hardness tester

If you are a quality control engineer or researcher in the field of non - metallic material hardness testing, this article provides you with a professional guide. To learn more about the Rockwell test parameter configuration guide suitable for your material type, please visit our technical document center.

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