Astm E18-2020

This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles
for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: E18 − 20 An American National Standard
Standard Test Methods for

Rockwell Hardness of Metallic Materials1,2
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E18; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of original
adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A superscript
epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.
1. Scope* kilograms-force (kgf) and the indenter ball diameters were

1.1 These test methods cover the determination of the specified in units of inches (in.). This standard specifies the
Rockwell hardness and the Rockwell superficial hardness of units of force and length in the International System of Units
metallic materials by the Rockwell indentation hardness prin- (SI); that is, force in Newtons (N) and length in millimeters
ciple. This standard provides the requirements for Rockwell (mm). However, because of the historical precedent and
hardness machines and the procedures for performing Rock- continued common usage, force values in kgf units and ball
well hardness tests. diameters in inch units are provided for information and much
of the discussion in this standard refers to these units.
1.2 This test method includes requirements for the use of
portable Rockwell hardness testing machines that measure 1.6 The test principles, testing procedures, and verification
Rockwell hardness by the Rockwell hardness test principle and procedures are essentially identical for both the Rockwell and
can meet all the requirements of this test method, including the Rockwell superficial hardness tests. The significant differences
direct and indirect verifications of the testing machine. Portable between the two tests are that the test forces are smaller for the
Rockwell hardness testing machines that cannot meet the direct Rockwell superficial test than for the Rockwell test. The same
verification requirements and can only be verified by indirect type and size indenters may be used for either test, depending
verification requirements are covered in Test Method E110. on the scale being employed. Accordingly, throughout this
standard, the term Rockwell will imply both Rockwell and
1.3 This standard includes additional requirements in the Rockwell superficial unless stated otherwise.
following annexes:
1.7 This standard does not purport to address all of the
Verification of Rockwell Hardness Testing Machines Annex A1
Rockwell Hardness Standardizing Machines Annex A2
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
Standardization of Rockwell Indenters Annex A3 responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
Standardization of Rockwell Hardness Test Blocks Annex A4 priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
Guidelines for Determining the Minimum Thickness of a Annex A5
Test Piece
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
Hardness Value Corrections When Testing on Convex Annex A6 1.8 This international standard was developed in accor-
Cylindrical Surfaces dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
1.4 This standard includes nonmandatory information in the ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
following appendixes that relates to the Rockwell hardness Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
test. mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
List of ASTM Standards Giving Hardness Values Appendix X1 Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Corresponding
to Tensile Strength 2. Referenced Documents
Examples of Procedures for Determining Rockwell Appendix X2
Hardness Uncertainty 2.1 ASTM Standards:3
1.5 Units—At the time the Rockwell hardness test was A370 Test Methods and Definitions for Mechanical Testing
developed, the force levels were specified in units of of Steel Products
A623 Specification for Tin Mill Products, General Require-
ments
1
These test methods are under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E28 on A623M Specification for Tin Mill Products, General Re-
Mechanical Testing and are the direct responsibility of Subcommittee E28.06 on quirements [Metric]
Indentation Hardness Testing.
Current edition approved Feb. 1, 2020. Published March 2020. Originally
approved in 1932. Last previous edition approved in 2019 as E18 – 19. DOI:
3
10.1520/E0018-20 For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
2
In this test method, the term Rockwell refers to an internationally recognized contact ASTM Customer Service at [email protected]. For Annual Book of ASTM
type of indentation hardness test as defined in Section 3, and not to the hardness Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
testing equipment of a particular manufacturer. the ASTM website.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard

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1
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E18 − 20
A883 Test Method for Ferrimagnetic Resonance Linewidth ISO/IEC 17011 Conformity Assessment—General Require-
and Gyromagnetic Ratio of Nonmetallic Magnetic Mate- ments for Accreditation Bodies Accrediting Conformity
rials Assessment Bodies5
A956 Test Method for Leeb Hardness Testing of Steel ISO/IEC 17025 General Requirements for the Competence
Products of Testing and Calibration Laboratories5
A1038 Test Method for Portable Hardness Testing by the 2.4 Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) Standard:
Ultrasonic Contact Impedance Method SAE J417 Hardness Tests and Hardness Number Conver-
B19 Specification for Cartridge Brass Sheet, Strip, Plate, sions6
Bar, and Disks
B36/B36M Specification for Brass Plate, Sheet, Strip, And 3. Terminology and Equations
Rolled Bar 3.1 Definitions:
B96/B96M Specification for Copper-Silicon Alloy Plate, 3.1.1 calibration—determination of the values of the sig-
Sheet, Strip, and Rolled Bar for General Purposes and nificant parameters by comparison with values indicated by a
Pressure Vessels reference instrument or by a set of reference standards.
B103/B103M Specification for Phosphor Bronze Plate, 3.1.2 standardization—to bring in conformance to a known
Sheet, Strip, and Rolled Bar standard through verification or calibration.
B121/B121M Specification for Leaded Brass Plate, Sheet,
Strip, and Rolled Bar 3.1.3 verification—checking or testing to assure confor-
B122/B122M Specification for Copper-Nickel-Tin Alloy, mance with the specification.
Copper-Nickel-Zinc Alloy (Nickel Silver), and Copper- 3.1.4 Rockwell hardness test—an indentation hardness test
Nickel Alloy Plate, Sheet, Strip, and Rolled Bar using a verified machine to force a diamond spheroconical
B130 Specification for Commercial Bronze Strip for Bullet indenter or tungsten carbide (or steel) ball indenter, under
Jackets specified conditions, into the surface of the material under test,
B134/B134M Specification for Brass Wire and to measure the difference in depth of the indentation as the
B152/B152M Specification for Copper Sheet, Strip, Plate, force on the indenter is increased from a specified preliminary
and Rolled Bar test force to a specified total test force and then returned to the
B370 Specification for Copper Sheet and Strip for Building preliminary test force.
Construction 3.1.5 Rockwell superficial hardness test—same as the Rock-
B647 Test Method for Indentation Hardness of Aluminum well hardness test except that smaller preliminary and total test
Alloys by Means of a Webster Hardness Gage forces are used with a shorter depth scale.
E29 Practice for Using Significant Digits in Test Data to 3.1.6 Rockwell hardness number—a number derived from
Determine Conformance with Specifications the net increase in the depth of indentation as the force on an
E74 Practices for Calibration and Verification for Force- indenter is increased from a specified preliminary test force to
Measuring Instruments a specified total test force and then returned to the preliminary
E92 Test Methods for Vickers Hardness and Knoop Hard- test force.
ness of Metallic Materials
E110 Test Method for Rockwell and Brinell Hardness of 3.1.7 Rockwell hardness machine—a machine capable of
Metallic Materials by Portable Hardness Testers performing a Rockwell hardness test and/or a Rockwell super-
E140 Hardness Conversion Tables for Metals Relationship ficial hardness test and displaying the resulting Rockwell
Among Brinell Hardness, Vickers Hardness, Rockwell hardness number.
Hardness, Superficial Hardness, Knoop Hardness, Sclero- 3.1.7.1 Rockwell hardness testing machine—a Rockwell
scope Hardness, and Leeb Hardness hardness machine used for general testing purposes.
E384 Test Method for Microindentation Hardness of Mate- 3.1.7.2 Rockwell hardness standardizing machine—a Rock-
rials well hardness machine used for the standardization of Rock-
E691 Practice for Conducting an Interlaboratory Study to well hardness indenters, and for the standardization of Rock-
Determine the Precision of a Test Method well hardness test blocks. The standardizing machine differs
2.2 American Bearings Manufacturer Association Stan- from a regular Rockwell hardness testing machine by having
dard: tighter tolerances on certain parameters.
ABMA 10-1989 Metal Balls4 3.1.7.3 portable Rockwell hardness testing machine—a
2.3 ISO Standards: Rockwell hardness testing machine that is designed to be
ISO 6508-1 Metallic Materials—Rockwell Hardness Test— transported, carried, set up, and operated by the users, and that
Part 1: Test Method (scales A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, K, N, measures Rockwell hardness by the Rockwell indentation
T)5 hardness test principle.
3.1.7.4 movable Rockwell hardness testing machine—a
Rockwell hardness testing machine that is designed to be
4
Available from American Bearing Manufacturers Association (ABMA), 2025
M Street, NW, Suite 800, Washington, DC 20036.
5 6
Available from American National Standards Institute (ANSI), 25 W. 43rd St., Available from Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), 400 Commonwealth
4th Floor, New York, NY 10036, http://www.ansi.org. Dr., Warrendale, PA 15096-0001, http://www.sae.org.
2
E18 − 20
moved to different locations on a moveable frame, table or
similar support that is integral to the testing machine (for
example, securely fixed to a rolling table), or a Rockwell
hardness testing machine that is designed to move into testing
position prior to a test, (for example, securely fixed to a moving
support arm), and has been previously verified to ensure that
such a move will not affect the hardness result.
3.2 Equations:
3.2.1 The average H̄ of a set of n hardness measurements
H1, H2, …, Hn is calculated as:
H 1 1H 2 1…1H n
H̄ 5 (1)
n
3.2.2 The error E in the performance of a Rockwell hard-

ness machine at each hardness level, relative to a standardized FIG. 1 Rockwell Hardness Test Method (Schematic Diagram)
scale, is determined as:
E 5 H̄ 2 H STD (2) Step 1—The indenter is brought into contact with the test
specimen, and the preliminary test force F0 is applied. After
where:
holding the preliminary test force for a specified dwell time,
H̄ = average of n hardness measurements H1, H2, …, Hn the baseline depth of indentation is measured.
made on a standardized test block as part of a Step 2—The force on the indenter is increased at a
performance verification, and controlled rate by the additional test force F1 to achieve the
HSTD = certified average hardness value of the standardized total test force F. The total test force is held for a specified
test block. dwell time.
3.2.3 The repeatability R in the performance of a Rockwell Step 3—The additional test force is removed, returning to
hardness machine at each hardness level, under the particular the preliminary test force. After holding the preliminary test
verification conditions, is estimated by the range of n hardness force for a specified dwell time, the final depth of indentation
measurements made on a standardized test block as part of a is measured. The Rockwell hardness value is derived from the
performance verification, defined as: difference h in the final and baseline indentation depths while
R 5 H max 2 H min (3) under the preliminary test force. The preliminary test force is
removed and the indenter is removed from the test specimen.
where: 5.1.1 There are two general classifications of the Rockwell
Hmax = highest hardness value, and test: the Rockwell hardness test and the Rockwell superficial
Hmin = lowest hardness value. hardness test. The significant difference between the two test
classifications is in the test forces that are used. For the
4. Significance and Use
Rockwell hardness test, the preliminary test force is 10 kgf (98
4.1 The Rockwell hardness test is an empirical indentation N) and the total test forces are 60 kgf (589 N), 100 kgf (981 N),
hardness test that can provide useful information about metallic and 150 kgf (1471 N). For the Rockwell superficial hardness
materials. This information may correlate to tensile strength, test, the preliminary test force is 3 kgf (29 N) and the total test
wear resistance, ductility, and other physical characteristics of forces are 15 kgf (147 N), 30 kgf (294 N), and 45 kgf (441 N).
metallic materials, and may be useful in quality control and 5.1.2 Indenters for the Rockwell hardness test include a
selection of materials. diamond spheroconical indenter and tungsten carbide ball
4.2 Rockwell hardness tests are considered satisfactory for indenters of specified diameters.
acceptance testing of commercial shipments, and have been 5.1.2.1 Steel indenter balls may be used only for testing thin
used extensively in industry for this purpose. sheet tin mill products specified in Specifications A623 and
A623M using the HR15T and HR30T scales with a diamond
4.3 Rockwell hardness testing at a specific location on a part spot anvil. Testing of this product may give significantly
may not represent the physical characteristics of the whole part differing results using a tungsten carbide ball as compared to
or end product. historical test data using a steel ball.
4.4 Adherence to this standard test method provides trace-
NOTE 1—Previous editions of this standard have stated that the steel
ability to national Rockwell hardness standards except as stated ball was the standard type of Rockwell indenter ball. The tungsten carbide
otherwise. ball is considered the standard type of Rockwell indenter ball. The use of
tungsten carbide balls provide an improvement to the Rockwell hardness
5. Principles of Test and Apparatus test because of the tendency of steel balls to flatten with use, which results
5.1 Rockwell Hardness Test Principle—The general prin- in an erroneously elevated hardness value. The user is cautioned that
Rockwell hardness tests comparing the use of steel and tungsten carbide
ciple of the Rockwell indentation hardness test is illustrated in balls have been shown to give different results. For example, depending on
Fig. 1. The test is divided into three steps of force application the material tested and its hardness level, Rockwell B scale tests using a
and removal. tungsten carbide ball indenter have given results approximately one
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E18 − 20
Rockwell point lower than when a steel ball indenter is used. designation. When a ball indenter is used, the scale designation
5.1.3 The Rockwell hardness scales are defined by the is followed by the letter “W” to indicate the use of a tungsten
combinations of indenter and test forces that may be used. The carbide ball or the letter “S” to indicate the use of a steel ball
standard Rockwell hardness scales and typical applications of (see 5.1.2.1).
the scales are given in Tables 1 and 2. Rockwell hardness 5.2.3.1 Examples:
values shall be determined and reported in accordance with one 64 HRC = Rockwell hardness number of 64 on Rockwell C scale
of these standard scales.
81 HR30N = Rockwell superficial hardness number of 81 on the Rockwell
5.2 Calculation of the Rockwell Hardness Number—During 30N scale
a Rockwell test, the force on the indenter is increased from a
72 HRBW = Rockwell hardness number of 72 on the Rockwell B scale
preliminary test force to a total test force, and then returned to using a tungsten carbide ball indenter
the preliminary test force. The difference in the two indentation
5.2.4 A reported Rockwell hardness number or the average
depth measurements, while under the preliminary test force, is
value of Rockwell hardness measurements shall be rounded in
measured as h (see Fig. 1).
accordance with Practice E29 with a resolution no greater than
5.2.1 The unit measurement for h is mm. From the value of
the resolution of the hardness value display of the testing
h, the Rockwell hardness number is derived. The Rockwell
machine. Typically, the resolution of a Rockwell hardness
hardness number is calculated as:
number should not be greater than 0.1 Rockwell units.
5.2.1.1 For scales using a diamond spheroconical indenter
(see Tables 1 and 2): NOTE 2—When the Rockwell hardness test is used for the acceptance
testing of commercial products and materials, the user should take into
h account the potential measurement differences between hardness testing
Rockwell Hardness 5 100 2 (4)
0.002 machines allowed by this standard (see Section 10, Precision and Bias).
h Because of the allowable ranges in the tolerances for the repeatability and
Rockwell Superficial Hardness 5 100 2 (5) error of a testing machine, as specified in the verification requirements of
0.001 Annex A1, one testing machine may have a test result that is one or more
where h is in mm. hardness points different than another testing machine, yet both machines
can be within verification tolerances (see Table A1.3). Commonly for
5.2.1.2 For scales using a ball indenter (see Tables 1 and 2): acceptance testing, Rockwell hardness values are rounded to whole
h numbers following Practice E29. Users are encouraged to address round-
Rockwell Hardness 5 130 2 (6) ing practices with regards to acceptance testing within their quality
0.002
management system, and make any special requirements known during
h contract review.
Rockwell Superficial Hardness 5 100 2 (7)
0.001 5.3 Rockwell Testing Machine—The Rockwell testing ma-
where h is in mm. chine shall make Rockwell hardness determinations by apply-
5.2.2 The Rockwell hardness number is an arbitrary ing the test forces and measuring the depth of indentation in
number, which, by method of calculation, results in a higher accordance with the Rockwell hardness test principle.
number for harder material. 5.3.1 See the Equipment Manufacturer’s Instruction Manual
5.2.3 Rockwell hardness values shall not be designated by a for a description of the machine’s characteristics, limitations,
number alone because it is necessary to indicate which indenter and respective operating procedures.
and forces have been employed in making the test (see Tables 5.3.2 The Rockwell testing machine shall automatically
1 and 2). Rockwell hardness numbers shall be quoted with a convert the depth measurements to a Rockwell hardness
scale symbol representing the indenter and forces used. The number and indicate the hardness number and Rockwell scale
hardness number is followed by the symbol HR and the scale by an electronic device or by a mechanical indicator.
TABLE 1 Rockwell Hardness Scales

Scale Total Test Dial
Indenter Typical Applications of Scales
Symbol Force, kgf Figures
B ⁄ -in. (1.588-mm) ball
1 16 100 red Copper alloys, soft steels, aluminum alloys, malleable iron, etc.
C diamond 150 black Steel, hard cast irons, pearlitic malleable iron, titanium, deep case hardened steel, and other
materials harder than B100.
A diamond 60 black Cemented carbides, thin steel, and shallow case-hardened steel.
D diamond 100 black Thin steel and medium case hardened steel, and pearlitic malleable iron.
E 18⁄ -in. (3.175-mm) ball 100 red Cast iron, aluminum and magnesium alloys, bearing metals.
F 1⁄16-in. (1.588-mm) ball 60 red Annealed copper alloys, thin soft sheet metals.
G 1⁄16-in. (1.588-mm) ball 150 red Malleable irons, copper-nickel-zinc and cupro-nickel alloys. Upper limit G92 to avoid possible
flattening of ball.
H ⁄ -in.
18 (3.175-mm) ball 60 red Aluminum, zinc, lead.
6
K ⁄ -in.
18 (3.175-mm) ball 150 red
L 1⁄4-in. (6.350-mm) ball 60 red
M 1⁄4-in. (6.350-mm) ball 100 red Bearing metals and other very soft or thin materials. Use smallest ball and heaviest load that does
P 1⁄4-in. (6.350-mm) ball 150 red not give anvil effect.
R 1⁄2-in. (12.70-mm) ball 60 red
S 1⁄2-in. (12.70-mm) ball 100 red
V 1⁄2-in. (12.70-mm) ball 150 red
4
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TABLE 2 Rockwell Superficial Hardness Scales
Scale Symbols
Total Test Force,
N Scale, Diamond T Scale, 1⁄16-in. W Scale, 1⁄8-in. X Scale, 1⁄4-in. Y Scale, 1⁄2-in.
kgf (N)
Indenter (1.588-mm) Ball (3.175-mm) Ball (6.350-mm) Ball (12.70-mm) Ball
15 (147) 15N 15T 15W 15X 15Y
30 (294) 30N 30T 30W 30X 30Y
45 (441) 45N 45T 45W 45X 45Y
5.4 Indenters—The standard Rockwell indenters are either 5.5.6 Special anvils or fixtures, including clamping fixtures,
diamond spheroconical indenters or tungsten carbide balls of may be required for testing pieces or parts that cannot be
1.588 mm (1⁄16 in.), 3.175 mm (1⁄8 in.), 6.350 mm (1⁄4 in.), or supported by standard anvils. Auxiliary support may be used
12.70 mm (1⁄2 in.) in diameter. Indenters shall meet the for testing long pieces with so much overhang that the piece is
requirements defined in Annex A3. Steel ball indenters may be not firmly seated by the preliminary force.
used in certain circumstances (see 5.1.2.1). 5.6 Verification—Rockwell testing machines shall be veri-
5.4.1 Dust, dirt, or other foreign materials shall not be fied periodically in accordance with Annex A1.
allowed to accumulate on the indenter, as this will affect the
test results. 5.7 Test Blocks—Test blocks meeting the requirements of
Annex A4 shall be used to verify the testing machine in
NOTE 3—Indenters certified to revision E18-07 or later meet the accordance with Annex A1.
requirements of this standard.
NOTE 4—Test blocks certified to revision E18-07 or later meet the
5.5 Specimen Support—A specimen support or “anvil” shall requirements of this standard.
be used that is suitable for supporting the specimen to be NOTE 5—It is recognized that appropriate standardized test blocks are
tested. The seating and supporting surfaces of all anvils shall be not available for all geometric shapes, or materials, or both.
clean and smooth and shall be free from pits, deep scratches, 5.8 Use of Portable Rockwell Hardness Testing Machines:
and foreign material. Damage to the anvil may occur from 5.8.1 A fixed-location Rockwell hardness testing machine
testing too thin material or accidental contact of the anvil by may not be capable of testing certain samples because of the
the indenter. If the anvil is damaged from any cause, it shall be sample size or weight, sample location, accessibility of the test
repaired or replaced. Anvils showing the least visibly percep- point or other requirements. In these circumstances, the use of
tible damage may give inaccurate results, particularly on thin a portable Rockwell hardness testing machine is an acceptable
material. method to test these samples. This method allows the use of a
5.5.1 Common specimen support anvils should have a portable Rockwell hardness testing machine as follows.
minimum hardness of 58 HRC. Some specialty support anvils 5.8.1.1 The portable Rockwell hardness testing machine
require a lower material hardness. shall meet the requirements of this method, including the test
5.5.2 Flat pieces should be tested on a flat anvil that has a principle, apparatus, indenters, applied forces, test procedures
smooth, flat bearing surface whose plane is perpendicular to and the direct and indirect verifications of the testing machine
the axis of the indenter. (except as indicated in Table A1.1). Test Method E110 covers
5.5.3 Small diameter cylindrical pieces shall be tested with portable Rockwell hardness testing machines that cannot be
a hard V-grooved anvil with the axis of the V-groove directly directly verified or cannot pass direct verification but meet the
under the indenter, or on hard, parallel, twin cylinders properly other requirements of this method.
positioned and clamped in their base. These types of specimen 5.8.1.2 A portable Rockwell hardness testing machine shall
supports shall support the specimen with the apex of the be used only when testing circumstances make it impractical to
cylinder directly under the indenter. use a fixed-location Rockwell hardness testing machine. In
5.5.4 For thin materials or specimens that are not perfectly such cases, it is recommended that an agreement or under-
flat, an anvil having an elevated, flat “spot” 3 mm (1⁄8 in.) to standing be made between all parties involved (for example,
12.5 mm (1⁄2 in.) in diameter should be used. This spot shall be testing service and customer) that a portable Rockwell hard-
polished smooth and flat. Very soft material should not be ness testing machine will be used instead of a fixed-location
tested on the “spot” anvil because the applied force may cause Rockwell hardness testing machine (see 5.8.1.)
the penetration of the anvil into the under side of the specimen 5.8.1.3 The portable Rockwell hardness testing machine
regardless of its thickness. shall measure hardness by the Rockwell hardness test principle
5.5.5 When testing thin sheet metal with a ball indenter, it is (see 5.1). Portable hardness testing machines or instruments
recommended that a diamond spot anvil be used. The highly that measure hardness by other means or procedures different
polished diamond surface shall have a diameter between 4.0 than the Rockwell hardness test principle, such as those defined
mm (0.157 in.) and 7.0 mm (0.2875 in.) and be centered within in Test Methods A883, A956, A1038 or B647, produce
0.5 mm (0.02 in.) of the test point. converted Rockwell hardness values and do not comply with
5.5.5.1 CAUTION: A diamond spot anvil should only be this method.
used with a maximum total test force of 45 kgf (441 N) and a 5.8.2 Daily Verification of portable hardness testing
ball indenter. This recommendation should be followed except machines—Portable hardness testing machines are susceptible
when directed otherwise by material specification. to damage when they are transported or carried from one test
5
E18 − 20
site to another. Therefore, in addition to complying with the NOTE 7—A table of correction values to be applied to test results made
daily verification requirements specified in 7.1 and Annex A1, on spherical surfaces is given in ISO 6508-1.
a daily verification shall be performed at each test worksite 6.5 When testing small diameter specimens, the accuracy of
where the hardness tests are to be made just prior to making the the test will be seriously affected by alignment between the
hardness tests. The verification shall be performed with the indenter and the test piece, by surface finish, and by the
portable hardness testing machine oriented as closely as straightness of the cylinder.
practical to the position that it will be used. It is recommended
that the daily verification be repeated occasionally during 7. Test Procedure
testing and after testing is completed. 7.1 A daily verification of the testing machine shall be
5.8.3 Additional reporting requirements when using a por- performed in accordance with A1.5 prior to making hardness
table Rockwell hardness testing machine are given in 9.2. tests. Hardness measurements shall be made only on the
5.8.4 Portable hardness testing machines by the nature of calibrated surface of the test block.
their application may induce errors that could influence the test 7.1.1 The results of a daily verification shall comply with
results. To understand the differences in results expected the current values specified in Table A1.3 regardless of any
between portable and fixed-location Rockwell hardness testing maximum error E value marked on the test block (see Note 8).
machines, the user should compare the results of the precision NOTE 8—Different editions of this method have revised some maximum
and bias studies given in Section 10 and in Test Method E110. error E values given in Table A1.3. Consequently, the maximum error E
values marked on older standardized test blocks may not reflect the current
6. Test Piece values.
6.1 For best results, both the test surface and the bottom 7.2 Rockwell hardness tests should be carried out at ambient
surface of the test piece should be smooth, even and free from temperature within the limits of 10 to 35 °C (50 to 95 °F).
oxide scale, foreign matter, and lubricants. An exception is Users of the Rockwell hardness test are cautioned that the
made for certain materials such as reactive metals that may temperature of the test material and the temperature of the
adhere to the indenter. In such situations, a suitable lubricant hardness tester may affect test results. Consequently, users
such as kerosene may be used. The use of a lubricant shall be should ensure that the test temperature does not adversely
defined on the test report. affect the hardness measurement.
6.2 Preparation shall be carried out in such a way that any 7.3 The test piece shall be supported rigidly so that displace-
alteration of the surface hardness of the test surface (for ment of the test surface is minimized (see 5.5).
example, due to heat or cold-working) is minimized. 7.4 Test Cycle—This standard specifies the Rockwell test
6.3 The thickness of the test piece or of the layer under test cycle by stating recommendations or requirements for five
should be as defined in tables and presented graphically in separate parts of the cycle. These parts are illustrated for a
Annex A5. These tables were determined from studies on strips Rockwell C scale test in Fig. 2, and defined as follows:
of carbon steel and have proven to give reliable results. For all (1) Contact Velocity, vA—The velocity of the indenter at the
other materials, it is recommended that the thickness should point of contact with the test material.
exceed 10 times the depth of indentation. In general, no (2) Preliminary Force Dwell Time, tPF—The dwell time
deformation should be visible on the back of the test piece after beginning when the preliminary force is fully applied and
the test, although not all such marking is indicative of a bad ending when the first baseline depth of indentation is
test. measured, (also see 7.4.1.3).
6.3.1 Special consideration should be made when testing (3) Additional Force Application Time, tTA—The time for
parts that exhibit hardness gradients; for example, parts that applying the additional force to obtain the full total force.
were case-hardened by processes such as carburizing, (4) Total Force Dwell Time, tTF—The dwell time while the
carbonitriding, nitriding, induction, etc. The minimum thick- total force is fully applied.
ness guidelines given in Annex A5 only apply to materials of (5) Dwell Time for Elastic Recovery, tR—The dwell time at
uniform hardness, and should not be used to determine the the preliminary force level, beginning when the additional
appropriate scale for measuring parts with hardness gradients. force is fully removed, and ending when the second and final
The selection of an appropriate Rockwell scale for parts with depth of indentation is measured.
hardness gradients should be made by special agreement. 7.4.1 The standard Rockwell test cycle is specified in Table
3. The test cycle used for Rockwell hardness tests shall be in
NOTE 6—A table listing the minimum effective case depth needed for accordance with these test cycle values and tolerances (see
different Rockwell scales is given in SAE J417. Note 9), with the following exceptions.
6.4 When testing on convex cylindrical surfaces, the result 7.4.1.1 Precautions for Materials Having Excessive Time-
may not accurately indicate the true Rockwell hardness; Dependent Plasticity (Indentation Creep)—In the case of
therefore, the corrections given in Annex A6 shall be applied. materials exhibiting excessive plastic flow after application of
For diameters between those given in the tables, correction the total test force, special considerations may be necessary
factors may be derived by linear interpolation. Tests performed since the indenter will continue to penetrate. When materials
on diameters smaller than those given in Annex A6 are not require the use of a longer total force dwell time than for the
acceptable. Corrections for tests on spherical and concave standard test cycle stated in Table 3, this should he specified in
surfaces should be the subject of special agreement. the product specification. In these cases, the actual extended
6
E18 − 20
hardness machine match, as closely as possible, the test cycle used for the
indirect verification of the hardness machine. Varying the values of the
testing cycle parameters within the tolerances of Table 3 can produce
different hardness results.
7.5 Test Procedure—There are many designs of Rockwell
hardness machines, requiring various levels of operator con-
trol. Some hardness machines can perform the Rockwell
hardness test procedure automatically with almost no operator
influence, while other machines require the operator to control
most of the test procedure.
7.5.1 Bring the indenter into contact with the test surface in
a direction perpendicular to the surface and, if possible, at a
velocity within the recommended maximum contact velocity
vA.
7.5.2 Apply the preliminary test force F0 of 10 kgf (98 N)
for the Rockwell hardness test or 3 kgf (29 N) for the Rockwell
superficial hardness test.
7.5.3 Maintain the preliminary force for the specified pre-
liminary force dwell time tPF.
7.5.4 At the end of the preliminary force dwell time tPF,
immediately establish the reference position of the baseline
depth of indentation (see manufacturer’s Instruction Manual).
7.5.5 Increase the force by the value of the additional test
force F1 needed to obtain the required total test force F for a
given hardness scale (see Tables 1 and 2). The additional force
F1 shall be applied in a controlled manner within the specified
application time range tTA.
7.5.6 Maintain the total force F for the specified total force
FIG. 2 Schematic of Force-Time Plot (a) and Indenter Depth-Time dwell time tTF.
Plot (b) of an HRC Test Illustrating the Test Cycle Parts 7.5.7 Remove the additional test force F1 while maintaining
the preliminary test force F0.
TABLE 3 Test Cycle Tolerances 7.5.8 Maintain the preliminary test force F0 for an appro-
Test Cycle Parameter Tolerance priate time to allow elastic recovery in the test material and the
Indenter contact velocity, vA (recommended) #2.5 mm/s stretch of the frame to be factored out.
Dwell time for preliminary force, tPF (when the time to apply 0.1 to 4.0 s 7.5.9 At the end of the dwell time for elastic recovery,
the preliminary force tPA $ 1 s, then calculate this parameter
t PA immediately establish the final depth of indentation (see
as 1t PF) manufacturer’s Instruction Manual). The testing machine shall
2
Time for application of additional force, tTA 1.0 to 8.0 s
Dwell time for total force, tTF 2.0 to 6.0 s calculate the difference between the final and baseline depth
Dwell time for elastic recovery, tR 0.2 to 5.0 s measurements and indicate the resulting Rockwell hardness
value. The Rockwell hardness number is derived from the
differential increase in depth of indentation as defined in Eq 4,
total force dwell time used shall be recorded and reported after Eq 5, Eq 6, and Eq 7.
the test results (for example, 65 HRFW, 10 s). 7.6 Throughout the test, the apparatus shall be protected
7.4.1.2 There are testing conditions that may require that the from shock or vibration that could affect the hardness mea-
indenter contact velocity exceed the recommended maximum surement result.
stated in Table 3. The user should ensure that the higher contact
velocity does not cause a shock or overload which would affect 7.7 After each change, or removal and replacement, of the
the hardness result. It is recommended that comparison tests be indenter or the anvil, at least two preliminary indentations shall
made on the same test material using a test cycle within the be made to ensure that the indenter and anvil are seated
requirements stated in Table 3. properly. The results of the preliminary indentations shall be
7.4.1.3 For testing machines that take 1 s or longer to apply disregarded.
the preliminary force tPA, the preliminary force dwell time 7.8 After each change of a test force or removal and
value tPF shall be adjusted before comparing the parameter replacement of the indenter or the anvil, it is strongly recom-
with the tolerances of Table 3 by adding to it one half of tPA as mended that the operation of the machine be checked in
t PA accordance with the daily verification method specified in
1t PF. For testing machines that apply the preliminary force
2 Annex A1.
tPA in 1 s or less, this adjustment to the preliminary force dwell
time value tPF is optional. 7.9 Indentation Spacing—The hardness of the material im-
NOTE 9—It is recommended that the test cycle to be used with the mediately surrounding a previously made indentation will
7
E18 − 20
usually increase due to the induced residual stress and work- 9.1.3 The ambient temperature at the time of test, if outside
hardening caused by the indentation process. If a new inden- the limits of 10 to 35 °C (50 to 95 °F), unless it has been shown
tation is made in this affected material, the measured hardness not to affect the measurement result.
value will likely be higher than the true hardness of the 9.2 When using a portable Rockwell hardness testing
material as a whole. Also, if an indentation is made too close machine, the measured hardness number shall be reported in
to the edge of the material or very close to a previously made accordance with 9.1, and appended with a /P to indicate that it
indentation, there may be insufficient material to constrain the was determined by portable Rockwell hardness testing
deformation zone surrounding the indentation. This can result machine, For example:
in an apparent lowering of the hardness value. Both of these 40 HRC/P = Rockwell hardness number of 40 on the Rockwell
circumstances can be avoided by allowing appropriate spacing C scale.
between indentations and from the edge of the material. 72 HRBW/P = Rockwell hardness number of 72 on the
7.9.1 The distance between the centers of two adjacent Rockwell B scale with a tungsten carbide ball indenter.
indentations shall be at least three times the diameter d of the
indentation (see Fig. 3). 10. Precision and Bias7, 8
7.9.2 The distance from the center of any indentation to an

10.1 Precision—A Rockwell hardness precision and bias
edge of the test piece shall be at least two and a half times the
study was conducted in 2000 in accordance with Practice
diameter of the indentation (see Fig. 3).
E691. Tests were performed in the following six Rockwell
scales: HRA, HRC, HRBS, HR30N, HR30TS, and HRES. The
8. Conversion to Other Hardness Scales or Tensile
tests in the HRBS, HR30TS and HRES scales were made using
Strength Values
steel ball indenters. A total of 18 Rockwell scale hardness test
8.1 There is no general method of accurately converting the blocks of the type readily available were used for this study.
Rockwell hardness numbers on one scale to Rockwell hardness Test blocks at three different hardness levels (high, medium,
numbers on another scale, or to other types of hardness and low) in each scale were tested three times each. The results
numbers, or to tensile strength values. Such conversions are, at from the first study are filed under ASTM Research Report
best, approximations and, therefore, should be avoided except RR:E28-1021.7,8
for special cases where a reliable basis for the approximate
10.2 Starting with version E18-05, this standard changed
conversion has been obtained by comparison tests.
from the use of steel balls to carbide balls for all scales that use
NOTE 10—The Standard Hardness Conversion Tables for Metals, E140,
give approximate conversion values for specific materials such as steel, a ball indenter. Due to this change, a second study was
austenitic stainless steel, nickel and high-nickel alloys, cartridge brass, conducted in 2006. The second study was performed in
copper alloys, and alloyed white cast irons. The Rockwell hardness data in accordance with Practice E691 and was identical to the initial
the conversion tables of E140 was determined using steel ball indenters. study except it was limited to the HRBW, HR30TW, and
NOTE 11—ASTM standards giving approximate hardness-tensile
strength relationships are listed in Appendix X1.
HREW scales, all of which use carbide ball indenters. The
results from that study are filed under ASTM Research Report
9. Report RR:E28-1022.
9.1 The test report shall include the following information: 10.3 A total of 14 different labs participated in the two
9.1.1 The Rockwell hardness number. All reports of Rock- studies. Eight participated in the first study and nine in the
well hardness numbers shall indicate the scale used. The second study. Three labs participated in both studies. The labs
reported number shall be rounded in accordance with Practice chosen to participate in this study were a combination of
E29 (see 5.2.4 and Note 2), commercial testing labs (6), in-house labs (5) and test block
9.1.2 The total force dwell time, if outside the specified manufacturer’s calibration labs (3). Each lab was instructed to
standard test cycle tolerances (see Table 3), and test each block in three specific locations around the surface of
the blocks. All testing was to be done according to ASTM
E18-05.
10.4 The results given in Table 4 may be useful in inter-
preting measurement differences. It is a combination of the two
studies. The diamond scales, HRC, HRA, and HR30N are from
the first study and the ball scales, HRBW, HREW, and
HR30TW are from the second study. This combination reflects
the testing that is being done currently.
10.5 The value of rPB indicates the typical amount of
variation that can be expected between test results obtained for
the same material by the same operator using the same
7
Supporting data have been filed at ASTM International Headquarters and may
be obtained by requesting Research Report RR:E28-1021.
8
Supporting data have been filed at ASTM International Headquarters and may
FIG. 3 Schematic of Minimum Indentation Spacing be obtained by requesting Research Report RR:E28-1022.
8
E18 − 20
TABLE 4 Results of the Precision and Bias Study than the RPB value for that Rockwell scale is an indication that
Test Block
Average
Sr SR rPB RPB
the results may be equivalent.
Hardness
10.7 Any judgments based on 10.5 and 10.6 would have an
Data from 2000 study
62.8 HRA 62.50 0.164 0.538 0.459 1.506 approximately 95 % probability of being correct.
73.1 HRA 73.04 0.138 0.358 0.387 1.002 10.8 This precision and bias study was conducted on a
83.9 HRA 84.54 0.085 0.468 0.238 1.309
25.0 HRC 24.99 0.335 0.440 0.937 1.232 selected number of the most commonly used Rockwell scales.
45.0 HRC 45.35 0.156 0.259 0.438 0.725 For Rockwell scales not listed, the rPB and RPB values may be
65.0 HRC 65.78 0.153 0.389 0.427 1.089
estimated using the conversion tables of E140 to determine a
45.9 HR30N 46.75 0.299 2.489 0.837 6.969
64.0 HR30N 64.74 0.248 0.651 0.694 1.822 corresponding increment of hardness for the scale of interest at
81.9 HR30N 82.52 0.195 0.499 0.547 1.396 the hardness level of interest. The user is cautioned that
Data from 2006 study
40 HRBW 43.90 0.492 0.668 1.378 1.871
estimating the rPB and RPB values in this way, decreases the
60 HRBW 61.77 0.663 0.697 1.855 1.953 probability of them being correct.
95 HRBW 91.09 0.250 0.292 0.701 0.817
62 HREW 64.07 0.346 0.675 0.970 1.890
10.9 Although the precision values given in Table 4 provide
81 HREW 81.61 0.232 0.406 0.649 1.136 guidance on interpreting differences in Rockwell hardness
100 HREW 96.22 0.177 0.322 0.497 0.901 measurement results, a complete evaluation of measurement
22 HR30TW 18.33 0.702 0.901 1.965 2.522
56 HR30TW 58.0 0.476 0.517 1.333 1.447
uncertainty will provide a more definitive interpretation of the
79 HR30TW 81.0 0.610 0.851 1.709 2.382 results for the specific testing conditions.
10.10 The data generally indicated reasonable precision
except for the 45.9 HR30N scale. In that scale the SR and RPB
values are very high compared to all of the other scales. An
hardness tester on the same day. When comparing two test examination of the raw data reveled that one lab’s results were
results made under these conditions, a measurement difference much higher than the others, significantly affecting the overall
of less than the rPB value for that Rockwell scale is an results in that scale. The results from all of the other scales
indication that the results may be equivalent. seem to be reasonable.
10.6 The value of RPB indicates the typical amount of 10.11 Bias—There are no recognized standards by which to
variation that can be expected between test results obtained for fully estimate the bias of this test method.
the same material by different operators using different hard-
ness testers on different days. When comparing two test results 11. Keywords
made under these conditions, a measurement difference of less 11.1 hardness; mechanical test; metals; Rockwell
ANNEXES
(Mandatory Information)
A1. VERIFICATION OF ROCKWELL HARDNESS TESTING MACHINES
A1.1 Scope A1.2 General Requirements

A1.1.1 Annex A1 specifies three types of procedures for A1.2.1 The testing machine shall be verified at specific
verifying Rockwell hardness testing machines: direct instances and at periodic intervals as specified in Table A1.1,
verification, indirect verification, and daily verification. and when circumstances occur that may affect the performance
of the testing machine.
A1.1.2 Direct verification is a process for verifying that
critical components of the hardness testing machine are within A1.2.2 The temperature at the verification site shall be
allowable tolerances by directly measuring the test forces, measured with an instrument having an accuracy of at least
depth measuring system, machine hysteresis, and testing cycle. 62.0 °C or 63.6 °F. It is recommended that the temperature be
monitored throughout the verification period, and significant
A1.1.3 Indirect verification is a process for periodically
temperature variations be recorded and reported. The tempera-
verifying the performance of the testing machine by means of
ture at the verification site does not need to be measured for a
standardized test blocks and indenters.
daily verification or when qualifying additional user’s indent-
A1.1.4 The daily verification is a process for monitoring the ers in accordance with A1.4.10.
performance of the testing machine between indirect verifica-
A1.2.3 All instruments used to make measurements re-
tions by means of standardized test blocks.
quired by this Annex shall be calibrated traceable to national
A1.1.5 Adherence to this standard and annex provides standards when a system of traceability exists, except as noted
traceability to national standards, except as stated otherwise. otherwise.
9
E18 − 20
TABLE A1.1 Verification Schedule for a Rockwell TABLE A1.2 Tolerances on Applied Force for a Rockwell
Testing Machine Testing Machine
Verification Force Tolerance
Schedule
Procedure kgf N kgf N
Direct When a testing machine is new, or when adjustments, 10 98.07 0.20 1.96
verification modifications or repairs are made that could affect the 60 588.4 0.45 4.41
application of the test forces, the depth measuring system, or 100 980.7 0.65 6.37
the machine hysteresis. 150 1471 0.90 8.83
When a testing machine fails an indirect verification (see 3 29.42 0.060 0.589
A1.4.9.4). 15 147.1 0.100 0.981
30 294.2 0.200 1.961
Indirect Recommended every 12 months, or more often if needed. 45 441.3 0.300 2.963
verification Shall be no longer than every 18 months.
When a testing machine is installed or moved, [only a partial
indirect verification is performed by following the procedure
given in A1.4.7 for verifying the as-found condition]. Indirect
verification is not required after moving a portable or movable
Rockwell hardness testing machine (see 3.1.7.3, 3.1.7.4, and A1.3.3 Verification of the Depth Measuring System—The
5.8).
Following a direct verification. depth measuring system shall be verified by means of an
To qualify an indenter that was not verified in the last indirect instrument, device or standard having an accuracy of at least
verification, (only a partial indirect verification is performed,
see A1.4.10).
0.0002 mm.
A1.3.3.1 Verify the testing machine’s depth measurement
Daily Required each day that hardness tests are to be made. system at not less than four evenly spaced increments covering
verification Recommended whenever the indenter, anvil, or test force is
changed.
the full range of the normal working depth measured by the
testing machine. The normal working depth range shall corre-
spond to the lowest and highest hardness values for the
Rockwell scales that will be tested.
A1.2.4 Direct verification of newly manufactured or rebuilt A1.3.3.2 The indentation-depth measuring device shall be
testing machines shall be performed at the place of accurate within 60.001 mm for the regular Rockwell hardness
manufacture, rebuild or repair. Direct verification may also be scales and 60.0005 mm for the Rockwell superficial hardness
performed at the location of use. scales. These accuracies correspond to 0.5 hardness units.
A1.3.3.3 Some testing machines have a long-stroke depth
A1.2.5 Indirect verification of the testing machine shall be measuring system where the location of the working range of
performed at the location where it will be used. the depth measuring system varies depending on the thickness
NOTE A1.1—It is recommended that the calibration agency that is used
to conduct the verifications of Rockwell hardness testing machines be
of the test material. This type of testing machine shall have a
accredited to the requirements of ISO 17025 (or an equivalent) by an system to electronically verify that the depth measuring device
accrediting body recognized by the International Laboratory Accreditation is continuous over its full range and free from dirt or other
Cooperation (ILAC) as operating to the requirements of ISO/IEC 17011. discontinuities that could affect its accuracy. These types of
testers shall be verified using the following steps.
A1.3 Direct Verification
(1) At the approximate top, mid point, and bottom of the
A1.3.1 A direct verification of the testing machine shall be total stroke of the measuring device, verify the accuracy of the
performed at specific instances in accordance with Table A1.1. device at no less than four evenly spaced increments of
The test forces, depth-measuring system, machine hysteresis, approximately 0.05 mm at each of the three locations. The
and testing cycle shall be verified as follows. accuracy shall be within the tolerances defined above.
NOTE A1.2—Direct verification is a useful tool for determining the (2) Operate the actuator over its full range of travel and
sources of error in a Rockwell hardness testing machine. It is recom-
mended that testing machines undergo direct verification periodically to
monitor the electronic continuity detection system. The system
make certain that errors in one component of the machine are not being shall indicate continuity over the full range.
offset by errors in another component. A1.3.4 Verification of Machine Hysteresis—Each time a
A1.3.2 Verification of the Test Forces—For each Rockwell Rockwell hardness test is made, the testing machine will
scale that will be used, the corresponding test forces (prelimi- undergo flexure in some of the machine components and the
nary test force at loading, total test force, and preliminary test machine frame. If the flexure is not entirely elastic during the
force during elastic recovery) shall be measured. The test application and removal of the additional force F1, the testing
forces shall be measured by means of a Class A elastic force machine may exhibit hysteresis in the indenter-depth measure-
measuring instrument having an accuracy of at least 0.25 %, as ment system, resulting in an offset or bias in the test result. The
described in Practices E74. goal of the hysteresis verification is to perform a purely elastic
A1.3.2.1 Make three measurements of each force. The test that results in no permanent indentation. In this way, the
forces shall be measured as they are applied during testing. level of hysteresis in the flexure of the testing machine can be
A1.3.2.2 Each preliminary test force F0 and each total test determined.
force F shall be accurate to within the tolerances given in Table A1.3.4.1 Perform repeated Rockwell tests using a blunt
A1.2, and the range of the three force measurements (highest indenter (or the indenter holder surface) acting directly onto the
minus lowest) shall be within 75 % of the tolerances of Table anvil or a very hard test piece. The tests shall be conducted
A1.2. using the highest test force that is used during normal testing.
10
E18 − 20
A1.3.4.2 Repeat the hysteresis verification procedure for a TABLE A1.3 Maximum Allowable Repeatability and Error of
maximum of ten measurements and average the last three tests. Testing Machines for Ranges of Standardized Test Blocks
The average measurement shall indicate a hardness number of Maximum Maximum
Range of Standardized
Repeatability, R Error, E
130 6 1.0 Rockwell units when Rockwell ball scales B, E, F, Test BlocksA
(HR units) (HR units)
G, H and K are used, or within 100 6 1.0 Rockwell units when HRA < 70 2.0 ± 1.0
any other Rockwell scale is used. $ 70 and < 80 1.5 ± 1.0
$ 80 1.0 ± 0.5
A1.3.5 Verification of the Testing Cycle—Section 7 specifies HRBW < 60 2.0 ± 2.5
the Rockwell testing cycle by stating requirements and recom- $ 60 and < 88 1.5 ± 2.5
$ 88 1.5 ± 1.0
mendations for five separate parameters of the cycle. The HRC < 35 2.0 ± 1.0
testing machine shall be verified to be capable of meeting the $ 35 and < 60 1.5 ± 1.0
tolerances specified in Table 3 for the following four test cycle $ 60 1.0 ± 0.5
HRD < 51 2.0 ± 1.0
parameters: the dwell time for preliminary force, the time for $ 51 and < 71 1.5 ± 1.0
application of additional force, the dwell time for total force $ 71 1.0 ± 0.5
and the dwell time for elastic recovery. The tolerance for the HREW < 84 1.5 ± 1.0
$ 84 and < 93 1.5 ± 1.0
indenter contact velocity is a recommendation. Direct verifi- $ 93 1.0 ± 1.0
cation of the testing cycle is to be verified by the testing HRFW < 80 1.5 ± 1.0
machine manufacturer at the time of manufacture, and when $ 80 and < 94 1.5 ± 1.0
$ 94 1.0 ± 1.0
the testing machine is returned to the manufacturer for repair HRGW < 55 2.0 ± 1.0
when a problem with the testing cycle is suspected. Verification $ 55 and < 80 2.0 ± 1.0
of the testing cycle is not required as part of the direct $ 80 2.0 ± 1.0
HRHW < 96 2.0 ± 1.0
verification at other times. $ 96 2.0 ± 1.0
A1.3.5.1 Rockwell hardness testing machines manufactured HRKW < 65 1.5 ± 1.0
before the implementation of E18–07 may not have undergone $ 65 and < 85 1.0 ± 1.0
$ 85 1.0 ± 1.0
the direct verification of the machine’s testing cycle. Since this HRLWB 2.0 ± 1.0
verification often must be performed at the manufacturer’s site, HRMWB 2.0 ± 1.0
HRPWB 2.0 ± 1.0
the test cycle verification requirement does not apply to testing HRRWB 2.0 ± 1.0
machines manufactured before the implementation of E18–07, HRSWB 2.0 ± 1.0
unless the testing machine is returned to the manufacturer for HRVWB 2.0 ± 1.0
HR15N < 78 2.0 ± 1.0
repair. $ 78 and < 90 1.5 ± 1.0
A1.3.6 Direct Verification Failure—If any of the direct $ 90 1.0 ± 0.7
HR30N < 55 2.0 ± 1.0
verifications fail the specified requirements, the testing ma- $ 55 and < 77 1.5 ± 1.0
chine shall not be used until it is adjusted or repaired. If the test $ 77 1.0 ± 0.7
forces, depth measuring system, machine hysteresis, or testing HR45N < 37 2.0 ± 1.0
$ 37 and < 66 1.5 ± 1.0
cycle may have been affected by an adjustment or repair, the $ 66 1.0 ± 0.7
affected components shall be verified again by direct verifica- HR15TW < 81 2.0 ± 1.5
tion. $ 81 and < 87 1.5 ± 1.0
$ 87 1.5 ± 1.0
A1.3.7 An indirect verification shall follow a successful HR30TW < 57 2.0 ± 1.5
$ 57 and < 70 1.5 ± 1.0
direct verification. $ 70 1.5 ± 1.0
HR45TW < 33 2.0 ± 1.5
A1.4 Indirect Verification $ 33 and < 53 1.5 ± 1.0
$ 53 1.5 ± 1.0
A1.4.1 An indirect verification of the testing machine shall HR15WWB 2.0 ± 1.0
be performed, at a minimum, in accordance with the schedule HR30WWB 2.0 ± 1.0
HR45WWB 2.0 ± 1.0
given in Table A1.1. The frequency of indirect verifications HR15XWB 2.0 ± 1.0
should be based on the usage of the testing machine. HR30XWB 2.0 ± 1.0
HR45XWB 2.0 ± 1.0
A1.4.2 The testing machine shall be verified for each HR15YWB 2.0 ± 1.0
Rockwell scale that will be used prior to the next indirect HR30YWB 2.0 ± 1.0
verification. Hardness tests made using Rockwell scales that HR45YWB 2.0 ± 1.0
A
have not been verified within the schedule given in Table A1.1 The user may find that high, medium and low range test blocks are unavailable
commercially for some scales. In these cases one or two standardized blocks
do not meet this standard. where available may be used. It is recommended that all high range test blocks for
A1.4.3 Standardized test blocks meeting the requirements Rockwell scales using a ball indenter should be less than 100 HR units.
B
Appropriate ranges of standardized test blocks for the L, M, P, R, S, V, W, X, and
of Annex A4 (see Note 4) shall be used in the appropriate Y scales shall be determined by dividing the usable range of the scale into two
hardness ranges for each scale to be verified. These ranges are ranges, if possible.
given in Table A1.3. Hardness measurements shall be made
only on the calibrated surface of the test block.
11
E18 − 20
A1.4.3.1 The results of an indirect verification shall comply ranges that are available. Also, the testing machine shall be
with the current values specified in Table A1.3 regardless of verified on another Rockwell scale which uses the same test
any maximum error E value marked on the test block (see Note forces and for which three blocks are available. In this case, the
8). testing machine is considered verified for the entire Rockwell
A1.4.4 The indenters to be used for the indirect verification scale.
shall meet the requirements of Annex A3 (see Note 3). (2) Alternative Procedure 2—This procedure may be used
when standardized blocks from two ranges are available. The
A1.4.5 The testing cycle to be used for the indirect verifi- testing machine shall be verified using the standardized blocks
cation shall be the same as is typically used by the user. from the two available ranges. In this case, the testing machine
A1.4.6 Prior to performing the indirect verification, ensure is considered verified for only the part of the scale bracketed by
that the testing machine is working freely, and that the indenter the levels of the blocks.
and anvil are seated adequately. Make at least two hardness A1.4.9.2 On each standardized test block, make five mea-
measurements on a suitable test piece to seat the indenter and surements distributed uniformly over the test surface. Deter-
anvil. The results of these measurements need not be recorded. mine the error E and the repeatability R in the performance of
the testing machine using Eq 2 and Eq 3 for each hardness level
A1.4.7 As-found Condition: of each Rockwell scale to be verified.
A1.4.7.1 It is recommended that the as-found condition of A1.4.9.3 The error E and the repeatability R shall be within
the testing machine be assessed as part of an indirect verifica- the tolerances of Table A1.3. The indirect verification shall be
tion. This is important for documenting the historical perfor- approved only when the testing machine measurements of
mance of the machine in the scales used since the last indirect repeatability and error meet the specified tolerances using at
verification. This procedure should be conducted prior to any least one of the user’s indenters.
cleaning, maintenance, adjustments, or repairs. A1.4.9.4 In the case that the testing machine cannot pass the
A1.4.7.2 When the as-found condition of the testing ma- repeatability and error verifications with the user’s indenter, a
chine is assessed, it shall be determined with the user’s number of corrective actions may be attempted to bring the
indenter(s) that are normally used with the testing machine. At testing machine within tolerances. These actions include clean-
least two standardized test blocks, each from a different ing and maintenance, replacing the anvil or using another of
hardness range as defined in Table A1.3, should be tested for the user’s indenters. The indirect verification procedures shall
each Rockwell scale that will undergo indirect verification. The be repeated after making the allowed corrective actions.
difference in hardness between any of the standardized test
NOTE A1.3—When a testing machine fails indirect verification, it is
blocks shall be at least 5 hardness points for each Rockwell recommended that the testing machine be verified again using a Class A
scale. (or better) indenter for those scales and hardness levels that failed the
A1.4.7.3 On each standardized test block, make at least two indirect verification with the user’s indenter. If the testing machine passes
measurements distributed uniformly over the test surface. the repeatability and error tests with a Class A indenter, it is an indication
that the user’s indenter is out of tolerance. A new indenter may be acquired
A1.4.7.4 Determine the repeatability R and the error E (Eq by the user as a corrective action (see A1.4.9.4) allowing the indirect
2 and Eq 3) in the performance of the testing machine for each verification procedures to be repeated without having to perform a direct
standardized test block that is measured. verification. If the testing machine continues to fail the repeatability or
A1.4.7.5 The error E and the repeatability R should be error tests of an indirect verification with the Class A indenter, it is an
within the tolerances of Table A1.3. If the calculated values of indication that there is a problem with the machine and not the user’s
indenter.
error E or repeatability R fall outside of the specified
tolerances, this is an indication that the hardness tests made A1.4.9.5 If the testing machine continues to fail the repeat-
since the last indirect verification may be suspect. ability or error tests following corrective actions, the testing
machine shall undergo adjustment and/or repair followed by a
A1.4.8 Cleaning and Maintenance—Perform cleaning and direct verification.
routine maintenance of the testing machine (when required) in
A1.4.10 Qualifying Additional User’s Indenters—In cases
accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications and instruc-
where the testing machine passes indirect verification using
tions.
only one of the user’s indenters, only that one indenter is
A1.4.9 Indirect Verification Procedure—The indirect verifi- considered verified for use with the specific testing machine for
cation procedure requires that the testing machine be verified the Rockwell scales that were indirectly verified using that
using one or more of the user’s indenters. indenter. Before any other indenter may be used for testing the
A1.4.9.1 One standardized test block shall be tested from same Rockwell scales, it must be verified for use with the
each of the hardness ranges (usually three ranges) for each specific verified testing machine. This requirement does not
Rockwell scale to be verified, as given in Table A1.3. The apply to changing an indenter ball. The indenter verifications
difference in hardness between any of the standardized test may be made at any time after the indirect verification, and
blocks shall be at least 5 hardness points for each Rockwell may be performed by the user as follows.
scale. The user may find that high, medium and low range test A1.4.10.1 The testing machine and indenter shall be verified
blocks are unavailable commercially for some scales. In these together using the indirect verification procedures of A1.4.9
cases, one of the following two procedures shall be followed. with the following exception. The verification shall be per-
(1) Alternative Procedure 1—The testing machine shall be formed on at least two standardized test blocks (high and low
verified using the standardized blocks from the one or two ranges) for each Rockwell scale that the indenter will be used.
12
E18 − 20
A1.4.10.2 The indenter may be used with the specific given in Table A1.3, the above requirement for error E will be
verified testing machine only when the verification measure- met for that block and it is not necessary to calculate E ,
ments of repeatability and error meet the specified tolerances. however R shall still be calculated.
A1.4.11 The user shall identify and keep track of the A1.5.3.6 If the daily verification measurements for any of
indenters verified for use with the testing machine. the test blocks do not meet the criteria of A1.5.3.5, the daily
verification may be repeated with a different indenter or after
A1.5 Daily Verification cleaning the tester, or both (see the manufacturer’s instruc-
tions). If any of the test block measurements continue to not
A1.5.1 The daily verification is intended for the user to
meet the criteria of A1.5.3.5, an indirect verification shall be
monitor the performance of the testing machine between
performed. Whenever a testing machine fails a daily
indirect verifications. At a minimum, the daily verification shall
verification, the hardness tests made since the last valid daily
be performed in accordance with the schedule given in Table
verification may be suspect.
A1.1 for each Rockwell scale that will be used.
A1.5.3.7 If the anvil to be used for testing is different than
A1.5.2 It is recommended that the daily verification proce- the anvil used for the daily verification, it is recommended that
dures be performed whenever the indenter, anvil, or test force the daily verification be repeated on an appropriate part of
is changed. known hardness.
A1.5.3 Daily Verification Procedures—The procedures to NOTE A1.5—It is highly recommended that the results obtained from
the daily verification testing be recorded using accepted Statistical Process
use when performing a daily verification are as follows. Control techniques, such as, but not limited to, X-bar (measurement
A1.5.3.1 Daily verification shall use standardized test averages) and R-charts (measurement ranges), and histograms.
block(s) that meet the requirements of Annex A4 (see Note 4).
Daily verification shall be done for each Rockwell scale that is A1.6 Verification Report
to be used that day. At least one test block shall be used, and A1.6.1 The verification report shall include the following
when commercially available, the hardness range of the test information as a result of the type of verification performed.
block shall be chosen to be within 15 Rockwell points of the
A1.6.2 Direct Verification:
hardness value that the testing machine is expected to measure.
A1.6.2.1 Reference to this ASTM test method.
Alternatively, two test blocks can be used, (when commercially
A1.6.2.2 Identification of the hardness testing machine,
available), one higher and one lower than the hardness range
including the serial number, manufacturer and model number.
that the testing machine is expected to measure. In cases where
the configuration of the anvil to be used is not suitable for the A1.6.2.3 Identification of all devices (elastic proving
testing of blocks, a suitable anvil or adapter for testing a test devices, etc.) used for the verification, including serial numbers
block must be used temporarily. and identification of standards to which traceability is made.
A1.5.3.2 The indenter to be used for the daily verification A1.6.2.4 Test temperature at the time of verification (see
shall be the indenter that is normally used for testing. A1.2.2).
A1.6.2.5 The individual measurement values and calculated
A1.5.3.3 Before performing the daily verification tests,
results used to determine whether the testing machine meets
ensure that the testing machine is working freely, and that the
the requirements of the verification performed. It is recom-
indenter and anvil are seated adequately. Make at least two
mended that the uncertainty in the calculated results used to
hardness measurements on a suitable test piece. The results of
determine whether the testing machine meets the requirements
these measurements need not be recorded.
of the verification performed also be reported.
A1.5.3.4 Make at least two hardness measurements on each
A1.6.2.6 Description of adjustments or maintenance done to
of the daily verification test blocks adhering to the spacing
the testing machine, when applicable.
requirements given in 7.9.
A1.6.2.7 Date of verification and reference to the verifying
NOTE A1.4—Proper indentation spacing may be ensured by various agency or department.
techniques, such as using devices that correctly space indentations, using A1.6.2.8 Identification of the person performing the verifi-
test blocks having appropriately spaced gridlines or circles marked on the
test surface, using systems that move the test block to the correct position, cation.
or by measuring the distance between the indentation and adjacent A1.6.3 Indirect Verification:
indentations or the block edge after making the indentation. The user is
cautioned that depending on the spacing between the boundaries of spaced
A1.6.3.1 Reference to this ASTM test method.
gridlines or circles marked on the test surface, proper indentation spacing A1.6.3.2 Identification of the hardness testing machine,
may not be ensured since indentations can be placed anywhere within the including the serial number, manufacturer and model number.
marked test areas. A1.6.3.3 Identification of all devices (test blocks, indenters,
A1.5.3.5 For each test block, calculate the error E (see Eq 2) etc.) used for the verification, including serial numbers and
and the repeatability R (see Eq 3) from the measured hardness identification of standards to which traceability is made.
values. The testing machine with the indenter is regarded as A1.6.3.4 Test temperature at the time of verification (see
performing satisfactorily if both E and R for all test blocks are A1.2.2).
within the maximum tolerances given in Table A1.3. Note that A1.6.3.5 The Rockwell hardness scale(s) verified.
if the differences between the individual hardness values and A1.6.3.6 The individual measurement values and calculated
the certified value for a test block are all within the maximum results used to determine whether the testing machine meets
error E tolerances marked on the test block (see Note 8) and the requirements of the verification performed. Measurements
13
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made to determine the as-found condition of the testing A1.6.4 Daily Verification:
machine shall be included whenever they are made. It is A1.6.4.1 No verification report is required; however, it is
recommended that the uncertainty in the calculated results used recommended that records be kept of the daily verification
to determine whether the testing machine meets the require- results, including the verification date, measurement results,
ments of the verification performed also be reported. certified value of the test block, test block identification, and
A1.6.3.7 Description of maintenance done to the testing the name of the person that performed the verification, etc. (see
machine, when applicable. also Note A1.5). These records can be used to evaluate the
A1.6.3.8 Date of verification and reference to the verifying
performance of the hardness machine over time.
agency or department.
A1.6.3.9 Identification of the person performing the verifi-
cation.
A2. ROCKWELL HARDNESS STANDARDIZING MACHINES
A2.1 Scope greater than 0.002 mm/mm (0.002 in./in.). This characteristic
A2.1.1 Annex A2 specifies the requirements for the of the standardizing machine is not likely to vary with time. As
capabilities, usage, periodic verification, and monitoring of a such, the accuracy of this dimension shall only be certified by
Rockwell hardness standardizing machine. The Rockwell hard- the machine manufacturer and need not be periodically verified
ness standardizing machine differs from a Rockwell hardness by direct verification unless the components have been
testing machine by having tighter tolerances on certain perfor- changed.
mance attributes such as force application and machine hys- A2.3.1.4 Indenters—Class A ball indenters and Class A or
teresis. A Rockwell standardizing machine is used for the Reference diamond indenters as described in Annex A3 (see
standardization of Rockwell hardness indenters as described in Note 3) shall be used.
Annex A3, and for the standardization of Rockwell test blocks A2.3.1.5 Testing Cycle—The standardizing machine shall be
as described in Annex A4. capable of meeting each part of the testing cycle within the
tolerances specified in Table A2.1. The manufacturer of the
A2.1.2 Adherence to this standard and annex provide trace- standardizing machine shall verify each of the five components
ability to national standards, except as stated otherwise. of the testing cycle at the time of manufacture, or when the
testing machine is returned to the manufacturer for repair.
A2.2 Accreditation
A2.3.1.6 It is important that the final portion of the addi-
A2.2.1 The agency conducting direct and/or indirect verifi- tional force application be controlled. Two recommended
cations of Rockwell hardness standardizing machines shall be procedures for properly applying the additional force are as
accredited to the requirements of ISO 17025 (or an equivalent) follows: (1) the average indenter velocity vF (see Fig. 2) during
by an accrediting body recognized by the International Labo- the final 40 % of additional force application should be
ratory Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC) as operating to the between 0.020 mm/s and 0.040 mm/s, or (2) the amount of
requirements of ISO/IEC 17011. An agency accredited to force applied during the final 10 % of the additional force
perform verifications of Rockwell hardness standardizing ma- application time should be less than 5 % of the additional force.
chines may perform the verifications of its own standardizing A2.3.1.7 During the period between verifications, no adjust-
machines. The standardizing laboratory shall have a certificate/ ments may be made to the force application system, the force
scope of accreditation stating the types of verifications (direct measurement system, the indenter depth measurement system,
and/or indirect) and the Rockwell scales that are covered by the or the test cycle that is used for each Rockwell scale.
accreditation.
A2.4 Laboratory Environment
A2.3 Apparatus A2.4.1 The standardizing machine shall be located in a
A2.3.1 The standardizing machine shall satisfy the require- temperature and relative-humidity controlled room with toler-
ments of Section 5 for a Rockwell hardness testing machine ances for these conditions given in Table A2.2. The accuracy of
with the following additional requirements.
TABLE A2.1 Testing Cycle Requirements
A2.3.1.1 The standardizing machine shall be designed so
Test Cycle Parameter Tolerance
that: (1) each test force can be selected by the operator, and (2)
Indenter contact velocity, vA #1.0 mm/s
adjustments to test forces cannot be made by the operator. Dwell time for preliminary force, tPF (when the time to apply 3.0 ± 1.0 s
A2.3.1.2 The system for displaying the hardness measure- the preliminary force tPA $ 1 s, then calculate this parameter
t PA
ment value shall be digital with a resolution of 0.1 Rockwell as 1t PF)
2
units or better. Additional force application, tTA (see A2.3.1.6) 1.0 to 8.0 s
Dwell time for total force, tTF 5.0 ± 1.0 s
A2.3.1.3 Deviation in parallelism between the indenter Dwell time for elastic recovery, tR 4.0 ± 1.0 s
mounting surface and the anvil mounting surface shall not be
14
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TABLE A2.2 Standardization Laboratory Environmental A2.6 Periodic Verification Procedures
Requirements
A2.6.1 Perform Cleaning and Maintenance—If required,
Environmental Accuracy of
Parameter
Tolerance
Measuring Instrument cleaning and routine maintenance of the standardizing machine
Temperature 23.0 ± 3.0 °C ±1.0 °C shall be made before conducting direct or indirect verifications
(73.4 ± 5.4 °F) (1.8 °F) in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications and in-
Relative humidity #70 % ±10 % structions.
A2.6.2 Direct Verification—Perform a direct verification of
the standardizing machine in accordance with the schedule
the temperature and relative-humidity measuring instruments given in Table A2.3. The test forces, depth measuring system,
shall be as given in Table A2.2. The display of the temperature and machine hysteresis shall be verified.
measuring device shall have a resolution of at least 1 °C. A2.6.2.1 Verification of the Test Forces—For each Rockwell
A2.4.2 The temperature and relative-humidity of the stan- scale that will be used, the associated forces (preliminary test
dardizing laboratory shall be monitored beginning at least one force, total test force, and test force during elastic recovery)
hour prior to standardization and throughout the standardizing shall be measured. The test forces shall be measured by means
procedure. of a Class AA elastic force measuring instrument having an
A2.4.3 The standardizing machine, indenter(s), and test accuracy of at least 0.05 %, as described in Practices E74.
blocks to be standardized must be in an environment meeting A2.6.2.2 Make three measurements of each force. The
the tolerances of Table A2.2 for at least one hour prior to forces shall be measured as they are applied during testing.
standardization. A2.6.2.3 Each preliminary test force F0 and each total test
force F shall be accurate to within 0.25 % in accordance with
A2.4.4 During the standardization process, the standardiz- Table A2.4.
ing machine shall be isolated from any vibration that may A2.6.2.4 Verification of the Depth Measuring System—The
affect the measurements. depth measuring system shall be verified by means of an
A2.4.5 The power supply to the standardizing machine shall instrument having an accuracy of at least 0.0001 mm.
be isolated from any electrical surges that could affect its A2.6.2.5 Verify the standardizing machine’s measurement
performance. of depth at not less than four evenly spaced increments of
approximately 0.05 mm at the range of the normal working
A2.5 Verifications depth of the standardizing machine. The normal working depth
A2.5.1 The standardizing machine shall undergo direct and range shall correspond to the lowest and highest hardness
indirect verifications at periodic intervals and when circum- values for the Rockwell scales that will be standardized or that
stances occur that may affect the performance of the standard- will be used for indenter calibrations.
izing machine, according to the schedule given in Table A2.3. A2.6.2.6 For testing machines with long stroke actuators
A2.5.2 A standardizing machine used for the standardiza- and fixed anvils, the depth measurement verification shall be
tion of test blocks shall undergo monitoring verifications each repeated at positions corresponding to each thickness of test
day that standardizations are made, according to the schedule block that will be standardized or that will be used for indenter
given in Table A2.3. calibrations.
A2.6.2.7 The indentation depth measuring device shall have
A2.5.3 All instruments used to make measurements re- an accuracy of at least 0.0002 mm over the normal working
quired by this Annex shall be calibrated traceable to national depth range which corresponds to 0.1 regular Rockwell hard-
standards where a system of traceability exists, except as noted ness units and 0.2 Rockwell Superficial hardness units.
otherwise. A2.6.2.8 Verification of Machine Hysteresis—Most Rock-
A2.5.4 The standardizing machine shall be directly and well hardness machines will undergo flexure in the machine
indirectly verified at the location where it will be used. frame and some machine components each time a test is made.
If the flexure is not entirely elastic during the application and
removal of the additional force F1, the testing machine may
TABLE A2.3 Verification Schedule for a Rockwell Hardness
Standardizing Machine exhibit hysteresis in the indenter depth measuring system,
resulting in an offset or bias in the test result. The goal of the
Verification
Schedule
Procedure
Direct Shall be every 12 months. TABLE A2.4 Tolerances on Applied Force for the
verification When a standardizing machine is new, moved, or when Standardizing Machine
adjustments, modifications or repairs are made that could
affect the application of the test forces, the depth measuring Force, kgf (N) Tolerance, kgf (N)
system, or the machine hysteresis. 10 (98.07) 0.025 (0.245)
60 (588.4) 0.150 (1.471)
Indirect Shall be within 12 months prior to standardization testing. 100 (980.7) 0.250 (2.452)
verification Following a direct verification(limited number of scales). 150 (1471) 0.375 (3.678)
3 (29.42) 0.008 (0.074)
Monitoring Shall be before and after each lot is standardized, and at the 15 (147.1) 0.038 (0.368)
verification end of each day and the start of the following day when a 30 (294.2) 0.075 (0.736)
single lot is standardized over multiple days. 45 (441.3) 0.113 (1.103)
15
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hysteresis verification is to perform a purely elastic test that A2.6.3.2 Standardized test blocks shall be used in the
results in no permanent indentation. In this way, the level of appropriate hardness ranges for each scale to be verified. These
hysteresis in the flexure of the testing machine can be deter- ranges are given in Table A2.6. The standardizing testing
mined. machine shall not be adjusted during the indirect verification
A2.6.2.9 Perform repeated Rockwell tests using a blunt procedures.
indenter (or the indenter holder surface) acting directly onto the
anvil or a very hard test piece. The tests shall be conducted on TABLE A2.6 Maximum Allowable Repeatability and Error of
a Rockwell scale having the highest test force that is used for Standardizing Machines
normal standardizations. Maximum Maximum
Range of Standardized
A2.6.2.10 Repeat the hysteresis tests for a maximum of ten Test Blocks
Repeatability, R Error, E
measurements and average the last three tests. The average (HR units) (HR units)
measurement shall indicate a hardness number within HRA 20 to 65 1.0 ± 0.5

70 to 78 0.7 ± 0.5
130 6 0.3 Rockwell units when Rockwell ball scales B, E, F, 80 to 84 0.5 ± 0.3
G, H and K are used, or within 100 6 0.3 Rockwell units when HRBW 40 to 59 1.0 ± 0.7
60 to 79 0.7 ± 0.5
any other Rockwell scale is used. 80 to 100 0.7 ± 0.5
A2.6.2.11 Direct Verification Failure—If any of the direct HRC 20 to 30 1.0 ± 0.5
verifications fail the specified requirements, the standardizing 35 to 55 0.7 ± 0.5
60 to 65 0.5 ± 0.3
machine shall not be used until it is adjusted or repaired. Any HRD 40 to 48 1.0 ± 0.5
parameter that may have been affected by an adjustment or 51 to 67 0.7 ± 0.5
repair shall be verified again by direct verification. 71 to 75 0.5 ± 0.3
HREW 70 to 79 0.7 ± 0.5
A2.6.3 Indirect Verification—Indirect verification involves 84 to 90 0.7 ± 0.5
verifying the performance of the standardizing machine by 93 to 100 0.5 ± 0.5
HRFW 60 to 75 0.7 ± 0.5
means of standardized test blocks and indenters. Prior to 80 to 90 0.7 ± 0.5
performing standardizations for any Rockwell scale, an indi- 94 to 100 0.5 ± 0.5
rect verification of the standardizing machine for that scale HRGW 30 to 50 1.0 ± 0.5
55 to 75 1.0 ± 0.5
shall be made within the time period given in Table A2.3. A 80 to 94 1.0 ± 0.5
selected number of Rockwell scales shall be indirectly verified HRHW 80 to 94 1.0 ± 0.5
96 to 100 1.0 ± 0.5
at the time of the direct verification as described below. The HRKW 40 to 60 0.7 ± 0.5
indirect verification of all other Rockwell scales may be made 65 to 80 0.5 ± 0.5
at any time as long as it occurs within the time period given in 85 to 100 0.5 ± 0.5
HRLWA 1.0 ± 0.5
Table A2.3 prior to standardization. HRMWA 1.0 ± 0.5
A2.6.3.1 Immediately following the direct verification, in- HRPWA 1.0 ± 0.5
direct verifications of a selected number of scales shall be HRRWA 1.0 ± 0.5
HRSWA 1.0 ± 0.5
performed to determine the performance of the standardizing HRVWA 1.0 ± 0.5
machine at each force level that the standardizing machine is HR15N 70 to 77 1.0 ± 0.5
capable of applying. An example of an indirect verification for 78 to 88 0.7 ± 0.5
90 to 92 0.5 ± 0.4
a standardizing machine capable of applying all force levels is HR30N 42 to 50 1.0 ± 0.5
given in Table A2.5. It is recommended that Rockwell scales be 55 to 73 0.7 ± 0.5
chosen that will also verify each indenter that will be used. 77 to 82 0.5 ± 0.4
HR45N 20 to 31 1.0 ± 0.5
When national primary standardized test blocks (see Note 37 to 61 0.7 ± 0.5
A2.1) are available, they should be used for the periodic 66 to 72 0.5 ± 0.4
indirect verification. HR15TW 74 to 80 1.0 ± 0.7
81 to 86 0.7 ± 0.5
NOTE A2.1—Primary standardized test blocks are certified at the 87 to 93 0.7 ± 0.5
national standardizing laboratory level. In the United States, the national HR30TW 43 to 56 1.0 ± 0.7
57 to 69 0.7 ± 0.5
Rockwell hardness standardizing laboratory is the National Institute of
70 to 83 0.7 ± 0.5
Standards and Technology (NIST), Gaithersburg, MD 20899. HR45TW 13 to 32 1.0 ± 0.7
33 to 52 0.7 ± 0.5
53 to 73 0.7 ± 0.5
TABLE A2.5 Suggested Rockwell Scales for the Indirect HR15WWA 1.0 ± 0.5
Verification of Machines Capable of Performing Both Regular and HR30WWA 1.0 ± 0.5
HR45WWA 1.0 ± 0.5
Superficial Scale Tests and that Will Use Only Diamond and
HR15XWA 1.0 ± 0.5
1/16 in. (1.588 mm) Diameter Carbide Ball Indenters HR30XWA 1.0 ± 0.5
Preliminary Force Total Force Indenter Rockwell HR45XWA 1.0 ± 0.5
kgf (N) kgf (N) Type Scale HR15YWA 1.0 ± 0.5
HR30YWA 1.0 ± 0.5
10 (98.07) 60 (588.4) diamond HRA
HR45YWA 1.0 ± 0.5
10 (98.07) 100 (980.7) ⁄ in. ball
1 16 HRB
A
10 (98.07) 150 (1471) diamond HRC Appropriate ranges of standardized test blocks for the L, M, P, R, S, V, W, X, and
3 (29.42) 15 (147.1) diamond HR15N Y scales shall be determined by dividing the usable range of the scale into two
3 (29.42) 30 (294.2) 1⁄16 in. ball HR30T ranges, high and low. Standardized test blocks for the R and S scales may be
3 (29.42) 45 (441.3) diamond HR45N available at only one hardness level.
16
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A2.6.3.3 The indenter(s) to be used for the indirect verifi- measurement system, or depth measuring system may be made.
cation shall be the same indenter(s) that will be used for future The indirect verification procedures may be repeated after
standardizations. If more than one indenter will be used for the making the allowed corrective actions. If the standardizing
same hardness scale, an additional verification shall be made machine continues to fail the repeatability or error tests
for each indenter. following corrective actions, the standardizing machine must
A2.6.3.4 The test cycle to be used for the indirect verifica- undergo adjustment and/or repair followed by a direct verifi-
tion should be the same as the test cycle used by the cation.
standardizing laboratory when calibrating the standardized test
A2.6.3.10 It is recommended that immediately following
blocks.
the successful completion of an indirect verification, user test
A2.6.3.5 Prior to testing the standardized test blocks, ensure
blocks are calibrated for use as monitoring blocks as outlined
that the testing machine is working freely, and that the indenter
and anvil are seated adequately. Make at least two hardness in A2.7.
measurements on a uniform test piece for the scale to be A2.7 Monitoring Verification
verified. The results of these measurements need not be
recorded. A2.7.1 This section describes the monitoring procedures for
A2.6.3.6 On each standardized block, make at least five a standardizing hardness machine used for the standardization
hardness measurements distributed uniformly over the surface of test blocks, and the calibration and use of monitoring test
of the block. blocks.
A2.6.3.7 Error—Using Eq 2, determine the error E in the
performance of the standardizing machine for each standard- A2.7.2 The standardizing laboratory shall monitor the per-
ized test block that is measured. The error E shall be within the formance of a standardizing machine used for the standardiza-
tolerances of Table A2.6. tion of test blocks between periodic direct and indirect verifi-
A2.6.3.8 Repeatability—Using Eq 3, determine the repeat- cations by performing monitoring verifications each day that
ability R in the performance of the standardizing machine for standardizations are made, according to the schedule given in
each standardized test block that is measured. The repeatability Table A2.3. Monitoring verifications are indirect verifications
R shall be within the tolerances of Table A2.6. If the calculated performed with monitoring test blocks that bracket the stan-
repeatability is outside the tolerances of Table A2.6, it may be dardization hardness level.
due to the non-uniformity of the test block. The repeatability R
A2.7.3 The standardizing laboratory should track the per-
may be determined again by making an additional five mea-
formance of the standardizing machine using control-charting
surements on each standardized block in close proximity to
techniques or other comparable methods. The control charts
each other adhering to indentation spacing restrictions (see Fig.
3). A pattern such as illustrated in Fig. A2.1 is recommended. are intended to indicate whether there is a loss of measurement
The close proximity of the measurements will reduce the effect control in the performance of the standardizing machine
of test block non-uniformity. A2.7.4 Monitoring Test Blocks—Test blocks that meet the
A2.6.3.9 If any of the error E or repeatability R measure- physical requirements (see Table A4.1) and the uniformity
ments fall outside of the specified tolerances, the standardizing requirements (see Table A4.2) of Annex A4 shall be used. The
machine shall not be considered to have passed the indirect monitoring test blocks shall be at each of the appropriate
verification. A number of corrective actions may be attempted hardness ranges of each hardness scale that will be used. These
to bring the standardizing machine within tolerances. These ranges are given in Table A2.6. It is to the advantage of the
actions include cleaning and maintenance or replacing the
laboratory to use test blocks that exhibit high uniformity in
anvil. No adjustments to the force application system, force
hardness across the test surface. The laboratory may, in all
cases, perform the monitoring tests using primary standardized
test blocks.
A2.7.5 Procedure for Calibrating Monitoring Test Blocks—
Monitoring test blocks for a specific Rockwell scale shall be
calibrated by the standardizing laboratory following an indirect
verification of the scales for which monitoring blocks will be
calibrated. An adequate number of monitoring blocks should
be calibrated for each hardness scale and hardness level. The
number of blocks required is dependent on each laboratory’s
needs and experience.
A2.7.5.1 Prior to calibrating the monitoring test blocks,
ensure that the testing machine is working freely, and that the
indenter and anvil are seated adequately. Each time the
hardness scale is changed, make at least two hardness mea-
surements on a uniform test piece for the scale to be verified.
FIG. A2.1 Suggested Pattern for Repeatability Measurements The results of these measurements need not be recorded.
17
E18 − 20
A2.7.5.2 Make at least five measurements distributed uni- A2.7.8.6 If any of the error E measurements or the repeat-
formly over the surface of one of the monitoring test blocks. ability R measurements fall outside of the specified tolerances,
Repeat this procedure, as required, for the quantity of blocks the standardizing machine shall not be considered to have
needed at the appropriate ranges of each Rockwell scale. passed the monitoring verification, and shall not be used for
A2.7.5.3 For each of the monitoring test blocks, let H̄ M be standardizations. A number of corrective actions may be
the average of the calibration values as measured by the attempted to bring the standardizing machine within toler-
standardizing machine. The value of H̄ M may be corrected for ances. These actions include cleaning and maintenance or
the error E that was determined for that Rockwell scale and replacing the anvil. No adjustments to the force application
hardness level as a result of the indirect verification. system, force measurement system, or depth measuring system
may be made. The monitoring verification procedures may be
A2.7.6 For each monitoring block, the following informa- repeated after making the allowed corrective actions. If the
tion shall be recorded and retained for at least the time period standardizing machine continues to fail the error tests follow-
during which the monitoring block calibration is valid. ing corrective actions, the standardizing machine must undergo
A2.7.6.1 Serial number. adjustment and/or repair followed by a direct verification.
A2.7.6.2 Calibrated hardness value, H̄ M . A2.7.8.7 Whenever a standardizing machine fails a moni-
A2.7.6.3 Date of calibration. toring verification, the standardizations made since the last
valid monitoring verification may be suspect.
A2.7.7 Monitoring Methods—It is recommended that con- A2.7.8.8 Examine the measurement data using control
trol charts or other comparable methods be used to monitor the charts or other monitoring systems that are being used (see
performance of the standardizing machine between verifica- Note A2.2). If the monitoring verification data indicates that
tions. Control charts provide a method for detecting lack of the standardizing machine is within control parameters, stan-
statistical control. There are many publications available that dardizations are considered to be valid.
discuss the design and use of control charts, such as the ASTM
“Manual on Presentation of Data and Control Chart Analysis: NOTE A2.2—Control chart data should be interpreted by the laboratory
based on past experience. The need for corrective action does not depend
6th Edition,” prepared by Committee E11 on Quality and
solely on data falling outside the control limits, but also on the prior data
Statistics. The standardizing laboratory should develop and use leading to this occurrence. As a general rule, however, once the standard-
control charts that best apply to their specific needs. izing machine is determined to be in control, a single occurrence of data
falling outside the control limits should alert the laboratory to a possible
A2.7.8 Monitoring Procedures—The following monitoring problem. The level of action that is required depends on the history of the
procedures shall be performed before and after each lot of test machine performance. It may be precautionary such as increasing the
blocks is standardized. When standardizations of a single lot of monitoring frequency, or corrective such as performing new direct and
test blocks spans multiple days, the monitoring procedures indirect verifications.
shall be performed at the end of the work day and at the start A2.8 Verification Report
of the following day during the period that the lot is standard-
ized. In addition, the monitoring procedures shall be performed A2.8.1 Direct Verification:
whenever the indenter, anvil, or test force is changed. A2.8.1.1 Reference to this ASTM test method.
A2.7.8.1 At least two monitoring test blocks shall be used in A2.8.1.2 Identification of the hardness standardizing
the appropriate hardness ranges that bracket the hardness level machine, including the serial number, manufacturer and model
to be standardized. These ranges are given in Table A2.6. For number.
some Rockwell scales (for example, HRR and HRS) there may A2.8.1.3 Identification of all devices (elastic proving
be only one monitoring test block that can be used. devices, etc.) used for the verification, including serial numbers
A2.7.8.2 Prior to testing the monitoring test blocks, ensure and identification of standards to which traceability is made.
that the testing machine is working freely, and that the indenter A2.8.1.4 Test temperature at the time of verification re-
and anvil are seated adequately. Make at least two hardness ported to a resolution of at least 1 °C.
measurements on a uniform test piece for the scale to be A2.8.1.5 The individual measurement values and calculated
verified. The results of these measurements need not be results used to determine whether the standardizing machine
recorded. Repeat this procedure each time the hardness scale is meets the requirements of the verification performed. It is
changed. recommended that the uncertainty in the calculated results used
A2.7.8.3 On each monitoring test block, make at least four to determine whether the standardizing machine meets the
measurements distributed uniformly over the surface of the requirements of the verification performed also be reported.
block. A2.8.1.6 Description of adjustments or maintenance done to
the standardizing machine, when applicable.
A2.7.8.4 Error—Determine the error E (Eq 2) in the perfor-
mance of the standardizing machine for each monitoring test A2.8.1.7 Date of verification and reference to the verifying
block that is measured. The error E shall be within the agency or department.
tolerances of Table A2.6. A2.8.1.8 Identification of the person performing the verifi-
cation.
A2.7.8.5 Repeatability—Determine the repeatability R in
A2.8.1.9 Accreditation certification number.
the performance of the standardizing machine (Eq 3) for each
standardized test block that is measured. The repeatability R A2.8.2 Indirect Verification:
shall be within the tolerances of Table A2.6. A2.8.2.1 Reference to this ASTM test method.
18
E18 − 20
A2.8.2.2 Identification of the standardizing machine, in- results used to determine whether the standardizing machine
cluding the serial number, manufacturer and model number. meets the requirements of the verification performed also be
A2.8.2.3 Identification of all devices (test blocks, indenters, reported.
etc.) used for the verification, including serial numbers and A2.8.2.7 Description of maintenance done to the standard-
identification of standards to which traceability is made. izing machine, when applicable.
A2.8.2.4 Test temperature at the time of verification re- A2.8.2.8 Date of verification and reference to the verifying
ported to a resolution of at least 1 °C. agency or department.
A2.8.2.5 The Rockwell hardness scale(s) verified. A2.8.2.9 Identification of the person performing the verifi-
A2.8.2.6 The individual measurement values and calculated cation.
results used to determine whether the standardizing machine A2.8.2.10 Accreditation certification number.
meets the requirements of the verification performed. Measure- A2.8.3 Monitoring Verification:
ments made to determine the as-found condition of the A2.8.3.1 No verification report is required; however, it is
standardizing machine shall be included whenever they are required that records be kept of the monitoring verification
made. It is recommended that the uncertainty in the calculated results, see A2.7.8.8.
A3. STANDARDIZATION OF ROCKWELL INDENTERS
A3.1 Scope A3.2 Accreditation

A3.1.1 Annex A3 specifies the requirements and procedures A3.2.1 The agency conducting the standardizations of in-
to manufacture and standardize the Rockwell diamond sphero- denters shall be accredited to the requirements of ISO 17025
conical indenter and Rockwell ball indenters for use with all (or an equivalent) by an accrediting body recognized by the
Rockwell scales. International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC) as
NOTE A3.1—Previous versions of this standard specified that diamond operating to the requirements of ISO/IEC 17011. The standard-
indenters used for calibrations meet the following geometrical require- izing laboratory shall have a certificate of accreditation stating
ments: the class and types of indenters that are covered by the
included angle of 120 6 0.1°;
mean radius of 0.200 6 0.005 mm; and
accreditation. Only indenters of the class and types within the
radius in each measured section of 0.200 6 0.007 mm. laboratory’s scope of accreditation are considered to meet this
It is believed that diamond indenters meeting these tolerances are not standard, except as stated below.
reliably available on the world market at this time. Consequently, for this
revision, the tolerances for the geometric features of the Class A and A3.3 General Requirements
Reference diamond indenters have been temporarily widened to the levels
of Class B indenters until such time as indenters having tighter tolerances
A3.3.1 The standard Rockwell hardness indenters are the
become reliably available. diamond spheroconical indenter, and tungsten carbide (WC)
ball indenters with diameters of 1⁄16 in. (1.588 mm), 1⁄8 in.
A3.1.2 The Annex covers two levels of ball indenters,
(3.175 mm), 1⁄4 in. (6.350 mm), and 1⁄2 in. (12.70 mm) to be
designated by this standard as Class B, and Class A. Class B
used for the Rockwell hardness scales as given in Table A3.1.
indenters are intended for every day use with Rockwell
Steel ball indenters may be used in special circumstances (see
hardness testing machines and for the indirect verification of
5.1.2.1).
Rockwell hardness testing machines in accordance with Annex
A1. Class A indenters are intended for the indirect verification A3.3.2 The standardizing laboratory environment, the stan-
of Rockwell standardizing machines in accordance with Annex dardizing machine, and the standardizing test cycle shall
A2, and for the standardization of test blocks in accordance satisfy the requirements of Annex A2.
with Annex A4. A3.3.3 All instruments used to make measurements re-
A3.1.3 The Annex covers three levels of diamond indenters, quired by this Annex shall be calibrated traceable to national
designated by this standard as Class B, Class A and Reference standards where a system of traceability exists, except as noted
indenters. Class B indenters are intended for every day use otherwise.
with Rockwell hardness testing machines. Class A indenters A3.3.4 All classes of diamond indenters and ball indenters
are intended for the standardization of Class B indenters in shall be verified for correct geometry and performance in
accordance with this Annex, and for the standardization of test accordance with the schedule specified in Table A3.2.
blocks in accordance with Annex A4. Reference indenters are
A3.4 Ball Indenters
intended for the standardization of Class A indenters.
A3.4.1 Ball indenters frequently consist of a holder, a cap
A3.1.4 This Annex also provides the schedule for verifying and a ball. The standardization process defined in this section
indenters. involves the assembled unit. The ball may be changed without
A3.1.5 Adherence to this standard and annex provides affecting the assembly’s verification provided the ball con-
traceability to national standards, except as stated otherwise. forms to all the requirements in this section.
19
E18 − 20
TABLE A3.1 Indenter Types for Specific Rockwell Scales NOTE A3.2—Balls that conform to ABMA Grade 24 satisfy the
Scale requirements for size and finish for Class A and Class B as specified in
Indenter Type ABMA Standard 10-1989.
Symbol
HRA Diamond Spheroconical A3.4.3.4 The hardness of a tungsten carbide ball shall not be
HRBW WC Ball - 1⁄16 in. (1.588 mm)
HRC Diamond Spheroconical
less than 1500 HV1 in accordance with Test Method E92 or
HRD Diamond Spheroconical E384.
HREW WC Ball - 1⁄8 in. (3.175 mm) A3.4.3.5 The material of tungsten carbide balls shall have a
HRFW WC Ball - 1⁄16 in. (1.588 mm)
HRGW WC Ball - 1⁄16 in. (1.588 mm)
density of 14.8 6 0.2 g/cm3, and the following chemical
HRHW WC Ball - 1⁄8 in. (3.175 mm) composition:
HRKW WC Ball - 1⁄8 in. (3.175 mm)
Total other carbides 2.0 % maximum
HRLW WC Ball - 1⁄4 in. (6.350 mm)
Cobalt (Co) 5.0 to 7.0 %
HRMW WC Ball - 1⁄4 in. (6.350 mm)
Tungsten carbide (WC) balance
HRPW WC Ball - 1⁄4 in. (6.350 mm)
HRRW WC Ball - 1⁄2 in. (12.70 mm) A3.4.3.6 The surface hardness of a steel ball shall not be
HRSW WC Ball - 1⁄2 in. (12.70 mm)
HRVW WC Ball - 1⁄2 in. (12.70 mm)
less than 746 HV1 in accordance with Test Method E92 or
HR15N Diamond Spheroconical E384.
HR30N Diamond Spheroconical A3.4.3.7 For the purpose of verifying the requirements of
HR45N Diamond Spheroconical
HR15TW WC Ball - 1⁄16 in. (1.588 mm)
the ball given in A3.4.3, it is considered sufficient to test a
HR30TW WC Ball - 1⁄16 in. (1.588 mm) sample set of balls selected at random from a batch in
HR45TW WC Ball - 1⁄16 in. (1.588 mm) accordance with the schedule specified in Table A3.2. The balls
HR15WW WC Ball - 1⁄8 in. (3.175 mm)
HR30WW WC Ball - 1⁄8 in. (3.175 mm) verified for hardness shall be discarded.
HR45WW WC Ball - 1⁄8 in. (3.175 mm) A3.4.3.8 To meet the above requirements for indenter balls,
HR15XW WC Ball - 1⁄4 in. (6.350 mm) the indenter standardizing laboratory may either verify that the
HR30XW WC Ball - 1⁄4 in. (6.350 mm)
HR45XW WC Ball - 1⁄4 in. (6.350 mm) balls meet the requirements, or obtain a certificate of verifica-
HR15YW WC Ball - 1⁄2 in. (12.70 mm) tion from the ball manufacturer.
HR30YW WC Ball - 1⁄2 in. (12.70 mm)
HR45YW WC Ball - 1⁄2 in. (12.70 mm) A3.4.4 Ball Holder—The ball holder shall meet the follow-
ing requirements:
A3.4.4.1 The material used to manufacture the portion of
TABLE A3.2 Indenter Verification Schedule the ball holder that supports the test force should have a
Indenter
Geometrical Features Performance
minimum hardness of 25 HRC.
Type
A3.4.4.2 The ball shall protrude outside the holder a mini-
Class B When an indenter is new. When an indenter is new, and
diamond when suspected damage has
mum of 0.3 mm. This requirement may be verified by direct
occurred. measurement or by performing the appropriate Rockwell scale
Class A When an indenter is new. Shall be within 12 months prior test on a standardized test block that has an equivalent hardness
diamond to standardization testing and
when suspected damage has
of 10 HRBW or softer. The protrusion is sufficient if the
occurred. hardness result is within 6 1.5 of the certified value of the
Reference When an indenter is new. When an indenter is new, and block.
diamond when suspected damage has
occurred. A3.4.5 Performance Verification of Ball Indenter Holders—
Class A Balls shall be verified for Ball holders shall be verified
and dimensions when new. when new, and when suspected
The influence of the ball indenter on the hardness value is not
Class B Ball holders shall be verified for damage has occurred. (This due solely to the previously specified features of the ball, but
ball ball protrusion when new. requirement does not apply also on characteristics of the ball holder that may vary due to
when simply replacing a ball.)
manufacturing procedures. To examine these influences, the
performance of each new Class B and Class A ball holder shall
be verified in accordance with the schedule specified in Table
A3.4.2 One-piece fixed-ball indenters are allowed provided A3.2.
the indenter meets the same requirements as removable ball A3.4.5.1 The performance verification is accomplished by
indenters. The manufacturer shall ensure that the method used making hardness measurements on test blocks meeting the
to affix the ball to the holder does not affect the dimensions or manufacturing requirements of A4.3 and having been standard-
properties of the ball. ized using a standardizing machine which successfully passed
A3.4.3 Indenter Balls—The balls shall meet the following direct verification in accordance with A2.6.2. At least one test
requirements: block shall be tested for the Rockwell hardness scale and
A3.4.3.1 The mean surface roughness of the ball shall not hardness range given in Table A3.3, corresponding to the ball
exceed 0.00005 mm (2 µin.). size being verified. Some specially designed 1⁄16 in. (1.588 mm)
A3.4.3.2 The diameter of Class B balls, when measured at Class B indenters may not be able to perform tests using the
not less than three positions, shall not differ from the nominal Rockwell scales required for verification of normal indenters in
diameter by more than 0.0025 mm (0.0001 in.). Table A3.3. For example, this applies to thin-tip 1⁄16 in. (1.588
A3.4.3.3 The diameter of Class A balls, when measured at mm) ball indenters that cannot support HRB scale test forces.
not less than three positions, shall not differ from the nominal These limited scale indenters may be used provided they are
diameter by more than 0.0010 mm (0.00004 in.). certified for the scale or scales they are designed to perform by
20
E18 − 20
TABLE A3.3 Test Blocks to be Used for Class A and Class B Ball A3.5.2 Geometric Requirements of Class B Diamond In-
Indenter Performance Verifications and the Maximum Tolerance denters:
on the Performance with Respect to Standardized
Reference Blocks
A3.5.2.1 The polished portion of the diamond indenter shall
be free from surface defects (cracks, chips, pits, etc.) when
Ranges of
Ball Size
Required Test
Class A Class B observed under a 20× magnification. The indenter shall be
in. (mm) Tolerance Tolerance
Blocks polished to such an extent that no unpolished part of its surface
⁄ (1.588)
1 16 20 to 100 HRBW ± 0.4 HRBW ± 0.8 HRBW makes contact with the test piece when the indenter penetrates
⁄ (3.175)
18 68 to 92 HREW ± 0.4 HREW ± 0.8 HREW to a depth of 0.3 mm.
1⁄4 (6.350) HRLW, HRMW, or ± 0.4 HR ± 0.8 HR
HRPW (any level) A3.5.2.2 Verification of the following geometric features
⁄ (12.70)
12 HRRW, HRSW, or ± 0.4 HR ± 0.8 HR shall be made at not less than four approximately equally
HRVW (any level)
spaced full cross-section profiles. For example, four profiles
would be spaced at approximately 45° intervals.
A3.5.2.3 The diamond shall have an included angle of
using the test block or blocks for those scales as defined in 120 6 0.35° (see Fig. A3.1).
Table A3.4. In all cases the test report shall define the scale or A3.5.2.4 The tip of the diamond shall be spherical with a
scales the indenter is certified to perform. mean radius of 0.200 6 0.010 mm (see Fig. A3.1). In each
A3.4.5.2 Prior to the performance verification, ensure that measured section, the radius shall be within 0.200 6 0.015
the testing machine is working freely, and that the indenter to mm, and local deviations from a true radius shall not exceed
be verified and anvil are seated adequately. Make at least two 0.002 mm.
hardness measurements on a uniform test piece. The results of A3.5.2.5 The surfaces of the cone and spherical tip shall
these measurements need not be recorded. blend in a tangential manner. The location where the spherical
A3.4.5.3 On the standardized test block, make at least three tip and the cone of the diamond blend together will vary
measurements distributed uniformly over the test surface. depending on the geometrical values of the tip radius and cone
Determine the difference between the average of the three or angle. An indenter with a perfect geometry will have a blend
more measurements and the calibrated value of the test block. point located at 100 µm from the indenter axis measured along
A3.4.5.4 For acceptability, the difference shall be within the a line normal to the indenter axis. To avoid including a blend
tolerances specified in Table A3.3 for the class of indenter area that does not occur at 100 µm in the measurement of the
being verified or Table A3.4 for the singular or limited scale tip radius or cone angle, the portion of the diamond surface
indenter being verified. between 80 µm and 120 µm may be ignored.
A3.5.2.6 The instrument(s) used to verify the geometrical
A3.4.6 Ball indenters frequently consist of a holder and a
features shall be capable of measuring to the accuracies given
removable cap that allows periodic changing of the ball.
in Table A3.5.
Indenter caps can be damaged during use and therefore may
A3.5.2.7 The verification of the geometrical features of the
have to be replaced. When the cap is replaced with a new cap,
diamond may be made by direct measurement or by measure-
the ball indenter assembly shall be performance tested before
ment of it’s projection on a screen provided the accuracy
use by performing a daily verification according to A1.5.3.1.
requirements are met.
The test block used should have a hardness equal to or softer
A3.5.2.8 When the projection on a screen method is used,
than the softest material that is expected to be tested using the
the contour of the diamond projection is compared to lines on
indenter. The verification may be performed by the indenter
the screen that indicate the dimensional tolerance limits. In this
owner or a calibration agency. A testing machine that meets the
case, measurement values for the geometrical features are not
requirements of Annex A1 shall be used for this verification.
required. It is sufficient to state that the features are within
A3.5 Class B Diamond Indenters tolerances.
A3.5.1 Class B diamond indenters are intended for every A3.5.3 Performance Verification of Class B Diamond In-
day use to perform Rockwell hardness measurements. They denters:
shall be verified for correct geometry and performance in A3.5.3.1 The influence of the diamond indenter on the
accordance with the schedule specified in Table A3.2. hardness value is not due solely to the previously specified
features of the indenter, but also on other characteristics that
TABLE A3.4 Test Blocks to be used for Singular or Limited Scale
Ball Indenter Performance Verifications and the Maximum
Tolerance on the Performance with Respect to Standardized
Reference Blocks
Ranges of
Ball Size
Required Test Tolerance
in. (mm)
Blocks
⁄ (1.588)
1 16 67 to 90 HR15TW ± 0.8 HR15TW
HR15TW scale
⁄ (1.588)
1 16 30 to 77 HR30TW ± 0.8 HR30TW
HR30TW scale FIG. A3.1 Diagram of Cross-Sectional View of Spheroconical Dia-
mond Indenter Tip
21
E18 − 20
TABLE A3.5 Minimum Measuring Instrument Accuracies for TABLE A3.6 Test Blocks to be Used Class B Diamond Indenter
Verifying the Geometrical Features of Class B, Class A and Performance Verifications and the Maximum Tolerance on the
Reference Diamond Indenters Performance Relative to the Class A or Reference Indenter
Minimum Class B
Geometrical Feature
Accuracy Tolerance
Angles 0.1° as Compared
Ranges of
Radius 0.001 mm to
Indenter Type Required Test
Straightness of the generatric line 0.001 mm Class A or
Blocks
of the cone Reference
(Class A and Reference indenters Indenter
only) H̄ Q 2H̄ V
Regular Scales Diamond 22 to 28 HRC ± 0.8 HRC
60 to 65 HRC ± 0.4 HRC
Superficial Scales Diamond 88 to 94 HR15N ± 0.5 HR15N
60 to 69 HR30N ± 0.5 HR30N
vary due to manufacturing procedures. To examine these 22 to 29 HR45N ± 0.8 HR45N
influences, the performance of each Class B indenter shall be Combination Regular and 22 to 28 HRC ± 0.8 HRC
Superficial Scales Diamond 60 to 65 HRC ± 0.5 HRC
verified by comparison to the performance of a qualifying 88 to 94 HR15N ± 0.5 HR15N
Class A or Reference indenter. 60 to 69 HR30N ± 0.5 HR30N
A3.5.3.2 Diamond indenters may be verified for use on
limited Rockwell scales as follows: regular Rockwell scales
only; superficial Rockwell scales only; or both regular and TABLE A3.7 Test Blocks to be Used for Singular or Limited Scale
Diamond Indenter Performance Verifications and the Maximum
superficial Rockwell scales. Special diamond indenters in-
Tolerance on the Performance Relative to the Class A or
tended for single or limited scale use and indenters, such as Reference Indenter
side cut diamond indenters, that because of their geometries Tolerance
cannot support the heavier loads of some Rockwell scales are Ranges of as Compared to
also allowed. In all cases the test report shall define the scale or Indenter Type Required Test Class A or
Blocks Reference Indenter
scales the indenter is certified to perform.
H̄ Q 2H̄ V
A3.5.3.3 The performance verification is accomplished by
HRA Scale 61 to 65 HRA ± 0.8 HRA
making hardness measurements on test blocks meeting the 81 to 84 HRA ± 0.5 HRA
manufacturing requirements of A4.3.
A3.5.3.4 Prior to the performance verification, ensure that HRD Scale 41 to 46 HRD ± 0.8 HRD
70 to 75 HRD ± 0.5 HRD
the testing machine is working freely, and that the indenter and
anvil are seated adequately. Make at least two hardness HR15N Scale 70 to 74 HR15N ± 0.8 HR15N
measurements on a uniform test piece using a total force of 150 88 to 94 HR15N ± 0.5 HR15N
kgf, or the greatest test force that the indenter can support. The HR30N Scale 43 to 49 HR30N ± 0.8 HR30N
results of these measurements need not be recorded. This 77 to 82 HR30N ± 0.5 HR30N
procedure shall be repeated each time the indenter is changed.
A3.5.3.5 Using the qualifying indenter, perform the daily
verification procedures of A1.5.3 for the scales and hardness used in the 15N and 30N scales only is desired, then 4 test
levels that will be used for the indenter performance verifica- blocks would be used, 2 in the 15N scale and 2 in the 30N scale
tion. If any of the error E measurements or the repeatability R as defined in the table. Record each test result and the location
measurements fall outside of the specified tolerances, the of the indentation. Let H̄ Q be the average of the qualifying
standardizing machine shall not be considered to have passed measurements.
the verification, and shall not be used for standardization until
A3.5.3.8 Using the Class B indenter to be verified, perform
the problem is determined and corrections have been made.
verification tests on the test blocks previously tested with the
Once corrections have been made, the verification procedure
Class A or Reference indenter. One verification test shall be
shall be repeated. This verification procedure is required only
made within 6 mm of each qualifying indent. Let H̄ V be the
at the start of the indenter performance verification.
average of the verifying measurements.
A3.5.3.6 The following procedures for performance verifi-
cation involve making qualifying hardness tests on test blocks A3.5.3.9 The number of verifying tests that can be made
with a Class A or Reference indenter, then performing verifi- adjacent to each qualifying test is limited by the requirements
cation tests on the same blocks with the Class B indenters to be to be within 6 mm of the qualifying indent while adhering to
verified. the indent to indent spacing requirements given in 7.9. To make
A3.5.3.7 Using the qualifying indenter, perform one set of at additional verifying tests, perform additional qualifying tests
least three qualifying tests on each test block from each range with the Class A or Reference indenter, and repeat the above
defined in Table A3.6 for the type of indenter to be verified. verifying procedure. This process may be repeated until there
Special singular or limited scale indenters (see A3.5.3.2) shall is no longer space on the test block.
be certified for use on singular or limited scales using the test A3.5.3.10 For acceptability, the difference between the
blocks defined in Table A3.7. For example, if an HRA scale qualifying and verifying averages, H̄ Q 2H̄ V , shall be within the
only diamond indenter is desired, the two HRA scale test tolerances for Class B indenters of Table A3.6 or Table A3.7
blocks defined in the table would be used. If an indenter to be for the singular or limited scale indenter being verified.
22
E18 − 20
A3.6 Class A Diamond Indenters A3.7 Reference Diamond Indenters
A3.6.1 Class A indenters are intended to be used for the A3.7.1 Reference diamond indenters are intended for the
standardization of Class B indenters in accordance with this standardization of Class A diamond indenters. The reference
Annex; the standardization of Rockwell hardness test blocks as indenter shall have tighter performance tolerances than Class A
described in Annex A4, and as a troubleshooting tool during and Class B indenters and shall be verified for performance by
the indirect verification of Rockwell hardness testing machines comparison to an indenter recognized as the national reference
in accordance with Annex A1. They are verified for correct indenter(s) of a national Rockwell hardness standardizing
geometry and performance in accordance with the schedule laboratory (see Note A3.3).
specified in Table A3.2. NOTE A3.3—In the United States, the national Rockwell hardness
A3.6.1.1 The instrument(s) used to verify the geometrical standardizing laboratory is the National Institute of Standards and
features shall be capable of measuring to the accuracies given Technology (NIST).
in Table A3.5.
A3.7.2 Geometric Requirements of Reference Diamond In-
A3.6.2 A Class A diamond indenter shall meet all of the denters:
manufacture and geometric requirements for a Class B dia- A3.7.2.1 Verification of the following geometric features of
mond indenter given in A3.5.2 with the following additional a Reference diamond spheroconical indenter shall be made at
requirements. See also Note A3.1. not less than eight approximately equally spaced full cross-
A3.6.2.1 The deviation from straightness of the generatric section profiles. For example, eight profiles would be spaced at
line of the diamond cone adjacent to the blend shall not exceed approximately 22.5 degree intervals.
0.002 mm over a minimum length of 0.40 mm.
A3.6.2.2 The angle between the axis of the indenter and the A3.7.3 A Reference diamond indenter shall meet all of the
axis normal to the seating surface of the indenter shall not manufacture and geometric requirements for a Class A dia-
exceed 0.5°. mond indenter given in A3.6.2. See also Note A3.1.
A3.6.3 Class A diamond indenters have tighter performance A3.7.4 Performance Verification of Reference Diamond In-
tolerances than Class B diamond indenters. The performance denters:
of each Class A indenter shall be verified by comparison to the A3.7.4.1 The performance comparison shall be performed
performance of a Reference indenter. by a national Rockwell hardness standardizing laboratory, and
A3.6.4 Perform the qualifying and verifying measurements shall meet the performance tolerances of Table A3.9.
as described in A3.5.3 for a Class B diamond indenter, except A3.7.4.2 Perform the qualifying and verifying measure-
that the qualifying measurements shall be made using a ments as described in A3.5.3 for a Class B indenter, except that
Reference diamond indenter on each test block from each at least four qualifying measurements shall be made using a
range defined in Table A3.8 for the type of indenter to be national reference indenter (see A3.7.1) on each test block
verified. from each range defined in Table A3.9 for the type of indenter
A3.6.4.1 For acceptability, the difference of the average of to be verified.
the three qualifying measurements and the average of the three A3.7.4.3 For acceptability, the difference of the average of
verifying measurements, H̄ Q 2H̄ V , shall be within the tolerance the five qualifying measurements and the average of the five
specified for Class A diamond indenters in Table A3.8. verifying measurements, H̄ Q 2H̄ V , shall be within the tolerance
specified for Reference indenters in Table A3.9 for each test
block used in the verification.
TABLE A3.8 Test Blocks to be Used for Class A Diamond

Indenter Performance Verifications and the Maximum Tolerance
on the Performance Relative to the Reference Indenter
TABLE A3.9 Test Blocks to be Used for Reference Indenter
Class A Performance Verifications and the Maximum Tolerance on the
Tolerance
Performance Relative to a National Reference Indenter
Ranges of as Compared
Indenter Type Required Test to Reference
Blocks Reference Indenter
Indenter Tolerance as
Ranges of
H̄ Q 2H̄ V Compared
Indenter Type Required Test
to a National
Regular Scales Diamond 80 to 83 HRA ± 0.3 HRA Blocks
Reference
22 to 28 HRC ± 0.4 HRC
Indenter
42 to 50 HRC ± 0.4 HRC
60 to 65 HRC ± 0.3 HRC H̄ Q 2H̄ V
Superficial Scales Diamond 88 to 94 HR15N ± 0.3 HR15N Regular Scales Diamond 22 to 28 HRC ± 0.3 HRC
60 to 69 HR30N ± 0.3 HR30N 62 to 65 HRC ± 0.3 HRC
42 to 50 HR30N ± 0.4 HR45N Superficial Scales Diamond 88 to 94 HR15N ± 0.3 HR15N
22 to 29 HR45N ± 0.4 HR45N 40 to 48 HR45N ± 0.3 HR45N
Combination Regular and 22 to 28 HRC ± 0.4 HRC Combination Regular and 20 to 28 HRC ± 0.3 HRC
Superficial Scales Diamond 60 to 65 HRC ± 0.3 HRC Superficial Scales Diamond 62 to 65 HRC ± 0.3 HRC
23
E18 − 20
A3.8 Marking A3.9.3.1 Reference to this ASTM test method.
A3.8.1 All indenters shall be serialized. When it is not A3.9.3.2 Serial number of the indenter.
practical to mark the serial number on the indenter due to size A3.9.3.3 Date of standardization.
limitations, the serial number shall be marked on the container. A3.9.3.4 A statement declaring that the indenter meets all of
A3.8.2 Diamond indenters should be marked to indicate the the geometrical and performance requirements for a Class B
scales that they are certified to perform. For example, regular indenter.
scale diamond indenters may be marked with a “C” and A3.9.3.5 Accreditation agency certification number.
superficial scale diamond indenters may be marked with an A3.9.3.6 The scale(s) that the indenter is certified to per-
“N”. Combination indenters may be marked with both a “C” form when certified for singular or limited scales.
and an “N”. A3.9.4 Class A Diamond Indenters—Each Class A diamond
A3.8.3 Single or limited scale indenters shall be marked to indenter shall have a calibration certificate with the following
indicate the scale(s) they are certified to perform. When it is not information:
practical to mark the scale on the indenter due to size A3.9.4.1 Reference to this ASTM test method.
limitations, the scale shall be marked on the container. A3.9.4.2 Serial number of the indenter.
A3.9 Certificate A3.9.4.3 Date of standardization.
A3.9.4.4 The results of all geometrical verifications.
A3.9.1 Ball Indenters—Each Class B and Class A ball
indenter holder shall have a calibration certificate with the A3.9.4.5 All qualifying and verifying performance mea-
following information: surements with the hardness levels of the test blocks used.
A3.9.1.1 Reference to this ASTM test method. A3.9.4.6 The performance differences between the Refer-
A3.9.1.2 Serial number of the indenter. ence standardizing indenter and the verified Class A indenter
A3.9.1.3 Date of standardization. H̄ Q 2H̄ V for each test block used.
A3.9.1.4 A statement declaring that the indenter meets all of A3.9.4.7 A statement declaring that the indenter meets all of
the material hardness, ball protrusion and performance require- the geometrical and performance requirements for a Class A
ments for the particular Class of Rockwell ball indenter. indenter.
A3.9.1.5 Accreditation agency certification number. A3.9.4.8 Accreditation agency certification number.
A3.9.1.6 The scale(s) that the indenter is certified to per-
form when certified for singular or limited scales. A3.9.5 Reference Diamond Indenters—Each Reference dia-
mond indenter shall have a calibration certificate or report with
A3.9.2 Indenter balls for Class B and Class A indenters shall
the following information:
have a report, applicable to one or more balls, with the
following information: A3.9.5.1 Serial number of the indenter.
A3.9.2.1 Reference to this ASTM test method. A3.9.5.2 Date of standardization.
A3.9.2.2 Identification of the lot or batch. A3.9.5.3 The results of all geometrical verifications.
A3.9.2.3 A statement declaring that the ball meets all of the A3.9.5.4 Serial number of the reference indenter.
geometrical, density, chemical composition and hardness re- A3.9.5.5 All qualifying and verifying performance mea-
quirements for the particular Class of Rockwell ball indenter. surements with the hardness levels of the test blocks used.
A3.9.3 Class B Diamond Indenters—Each Class B diamond A3.9.5.6 The performance differences between the refer-
indenter shall have a calibration certificate with the following ence indenter and the verified Reference indenter H̄ Q 2H̄ V for
information: each test block used.
A4. STANDARDIZATION OF ROCKWELL HARDNESS TEST BLOCKS
A4.1 Scope A4.1.2 Adherence to this standard and annex provides

A4.1.1 Annex A4 specifies the requirements and procedures traceability to national standards, except as stated otherwise.
for the standardization of Rockwell hardness test blocks that A4.2 Accreditation
are traceable to specific Rockwell hardness standards. These
standardized test blocks are to be used for the verification of A4.2.1 The agency conducting the standardizations of test
the performance of Rockwell and Rockwell superficial hard- blocks shall be accredited to the requirements of ISO 17025 (or
ness testing machines by way of daily verifications and indirect an equivalent) by an accrediting body recognized by the
verifications as described in Annex A1. The standardized test International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC) as
blocks are also to be used for the monitoring verifications of operating to the requirements of ISO/IEC 17011. The standard-
Rockwell standardizing machines as described in Annex A2. izing agency shall have a certificate/scope of accreditation
24
E18 − 20
stating the Rockwell hardness scales that are covered by the A4.5.3 The standardization procedure involves making
accreditation, and the standards to which the test block hardness measurements on the test block surface using the
standardizations are traceable. forces and type of indenter that are appropriate for the hardness
scale.
A4.3 Manufacture A4.5.3.1 Make at least five measurements distributed uni-
A4.3.1 The attention of the manufacturer of test blocks is formly over the test surface.
drawn to the need to use material and a manufacturing process A4.5.4 Determine the nonuniformity range HR of the mea-
which will give the necessary homogeneity, stability of surements as:
structure, and uniformity of surface hardness. For quality
control purposes, test blocks should be examined for homoge- H R 5 H max 2 H min (A4.1)
neity and uniformity of surface hardness in accordance with a where:
statistically acceptable sampling procedure. Hmax = highest hardness value, and
A4.3.2 The test blocks, if of steel, shall be demagnetized at Hmin = lowest hardness value.
the end of the manufacturing process. A4.5.4.1 The nonuniformity range HR of the standardizing
A4.3.3 To assure that material is not removed from the test measurements provides an indication of the non-uniformity of
surface after standardization, an identifying mark shall be the test block hardness. For acceptability, the nonuniformity
made on the test surface. The mark shall be such that it can not range HR shall be within the tolerances of Table A4.2.
be removed by any method other than removal of test block A4.5.5 The standardized value of the test block is defined as
material. the average of the standardization measurements H̄.
A4.3.4 The standardized test block shall meet the physical A4.5.6 In some cases, a more accurate standardized value
requirements of Table A4.1. for the test block may be obtained by correcting the measured
A4.4 General Requirements average hardness value by a performance offset value for the
standardizing machine. The offset value may be based on the
A4.4.1 The standardizing laboratory environment, the stan- error E values measured during the last indirect verification of
dardizing machine, and the standardizing test cycle shall the standardizing machine. For example, an appropriate offset
satisfy the requirements of Annex A2. correction curve for each standardizing machine may be
A4.4.2 All instruments used to make measurements re- calculated for a specific Rockwell scale by fitting a linear line
quired by this Annex shall have been calibrated traceable to to the error values measured during the indirect verification.
national standards where a system of traceability exists, except The laboratory should be cautioned that the validity of calcu-
as noted otherwise. lating a correction curve in this way is dependent on the
linearity of the fit of the offset data across the entire scale.
A4.5 Standardization Procedure
A4.5.1 A test block is standardized by calibrating the
average hardness of the test surface to a specific Rockwell
hardness standard. Only one surface of the test block shall be TABLE A4.2 Maximum Nonuniformity for Standardized
calibrated. When possible, the test blocks should be calibrated Test Blocks
traceable to national Rockwell standards (see Note A4.1). The Max.
Rockwell standard to which the test blocks are traceable shall Nonuniformity
Nominal Hardness of Range,
be stated in the certification. Standardized Test Block HR
NOTE A4.1—In the United States, the national Rockwell hardness (HR
standardizing laboratory is the National Institute of Standards and units)
Technology (NIST), Gaithersburg, MD 20899. HRA $20 and <80 1.0
NOTE A4.2—Primary standardized test blocks are available as Standard $80 and <92 0.5
Reference Material from NIST, Gaithersburg, MD 20899. HRBW $0 and <45 1.5
$45 and <100 1.0
A4.5.2 Class A ball indenters and Class A or Reference HRC $20 and <60 1.0
diamond indenters as described in Annex A3 (see Note 3) shall $60 and <70 0.5
be used for the standardization of test blocks. HRD $40 and <60 1.0
$60 and <87 0.5
HREW, HRFW, HRGW, HRHW, 1.0
TABLE A4.1 Physical Requirements of Standardized Test Blocks HRKW, HRLW, HRMW, HRPW,
HRRW, HRSW, HRVW
Test Block Parameter Tolerance HR15N $69 and <90 1.0
Thickness $6.0 mm (0.236 in.) $90 and <97 0.7
#16.0 mm (0.630 in.) HR30N $41 and <77 1.0
Test surface area #2600 mm2 (4 in.2) $77 and <92 0.7
Deviation from surface flatness #0.005 mm (0.0002 in.) HR45N $19 and <66 1.0
(test & bottom) $66 and <87 0.7
Deviation from surface parallelism #0.0002 mm per mm HR15TW, HR30TW, HR45TW 1.0
(test & bottom) (0.0002 in. per in.) HR15WW, HR30WW, HR45WW, 1.0
Mean surface roughness Ra # 0.003 mm (12 µin.) HR15XW, HR30XW, HR45XW,
(test & bottom) center line average HR15YW, HR30YW, HR45YW
25
E18 − 20
A4.6 Marking A4.7.1.1 Serial number of the test block.
A4.6.1 Markings placed on the side of the block shall be A4.7.1.2 The standardized hardness value, H̄, of the test
upright when the calibrated test surface is the upper surface. block with the scale designation, rounded to no less than one
decimal place in accordance with Practice E29, for example
A4.6.2 Each standardized block shall be marked with the
following. 61.4 HRC.
A4.6.2.1 The standardized hardness value, H̄, of the test A4.7.1.3 Value of the uncertainty in the standardized value
block, rounded to no less than one decimal place in accordance with a detailed explanation of how the uncertainty was
with Practice E29, for example 61.4 HRC. calculated.
A4.6.2.2 The appropriate tolerance value for error E given A4.7.1.4 The individual standardizing hardness measure-
in Table A1.3. ments.
A4.6.2.3 Name or identifying mark of the standardizing A4.7.1.5 A description of the testing cycle used, including
agency. the dwell times for the preliminary force, total force and elastic
A4.6.2.4 A mark identifying the test surface, which will be recovery.
obliterated if the surface is reground.
A4.7.1.6 The body that maintains the Rockwell scale to
A4.6.2.5 Unique serial number.
A4.6.2.6 Year of standardization. It is sufficient that the year which the test block is traceable. For example, the national
of standardization be incorporated into the serial number of the Rockwell C scale maintained at NIST.
block. A4.7.1.7 Date of standardization.
A4.7.1.8 Accreditation agency certification number.
A4.7 Certificate
A4.7.1 Each standardized test block shall be supplied with a
certificate from the standardizing laboratory stating the follow-
ing standardization information:
A5. GUIDELINES FOR DETERMINING THE MINIMUM THICKNESS OF A TEST PIECE
TABLE A5.1 A Minimum Thickness Guide for Selection of Scales

Using the Diamond Indenter (see Fig. A5.1)
NOTE 1—For any given thickness, the indicated Rockwell hardness is
the minimum value acceptable for testing. For a given hardness, material
of any greater thickness than that corresponding to that hardness can be
tested on the indicated scale.
Rockwell Scale
Minimum Thickness
A C
Hardness Approximate Hardness
in. mm
Reading Hardness C-ScaleA Reading
0.014 0.36 ... ... ...
0.016 0.41 86 69 ...
0.018 0.46 84 65 ...
0.020 0.51 82 61.5 ...
0.022 0.56 79 56 69
0.024 0.61 76 50 67
0.026 0.66 71 41 65
0.028 0.71 67 32 62
0.030 0.76 60 19 57
0.032 0.81 ... ... 52
0.034 0.86 ... ... 45
0.036 0.91 ... ... 37
0.038 0.96 ... ... 28
0.040 1.02 ... ... 20
A
These approximate hardness numbers are for use in selecting a suitable scale
and should not be used as hardness conversions. If necessary to convert test
readings to another scale, refer to Hardness Conversion Tables E140 (Relation-
ship Between Brinell Hardness, Vickers Hardness, Rockwell Hardness, Rockwell
Superficial Hardness, and Knoop Hardness).
26
E18 − 20
TABLE A5.2 A Minimum Thickness Guide for Selection of Scales

Using the 1/16 in. (1.588 mm) Diameter Ball Indenter
(see Fig. A5.2)
NOTE 1—For any given thickness, the indicated Rockwell hardness is
the minimum value acceptable for testing. For a given hardness, material
of any greater thickness than that corresponding to that hardness can be
tested on the indicated scale.
Rockwell Scale
Minimum Thickness
F B
Hardness Approximate Hardness
in. mm
Reading Hardness B-ScaleA Reading
0.022 0.56 ... ... ...
0.024 0.61 98 72 94
0.026 0.66 91 60 87
0.028 0.71 85 49 80
0.030 0.76 77 35 71
0.032 0.81 69 21 62
0.034 0.86 ... ... 52
0.036 0.91 ... ... 40
0.038 0.96 ... ... 28
0.040 1.02 ... ... ...
A
These approximate hardness numbers are for use in selecting a suitable scale
and should not be used as hardness conversions. If necessary to convert test
readings to another scale refer to Hardness Conversion Tables E140 (Relationship
Between Brinell Hardness, Vickers Hardness, Rockwell Hardness, Rockwell
Superficial Hardness and Knoop Hardness).
TABLE A5.3 A Minimum Thickness Guide for Selection of Scales Using the Diamond Indenter (see Fig. A5.1)
NOTE 1—For any given thickness, the indicated Rockwell hardness is the minimum value acceptable for testing. For a given hardness, material of any
greater thickness than that corresponding to that hardness can be tested on the indicated scale.
Rockwell Superficial Scale
Minimum Thickness
15N 30N 45N
Approximate Approximate Approximate
Hardness Hardness Hardness
in. mm Hardness Hardness Hardness
Reading Reading Reading
C-ScaleA C-ScaleA C-ScaleA
0.006 0.15 92 65 ... ... . .. ...
0.008 0.20 90 60 ... ... ... ...
0.010 0.25 88 55 ... ... ... ...
0.012 0.30 83 45 82 65 77 69.5
0.014 0.36 76 32 78.5 61 74 67
0.016 0.41 68 18 74 56 72 65
0.018 0.46 ... ... 66 47 68 61
0.020 0.51 ... ... 57 37 63 57
0.022 0.56 ... ... 47 26 58 52.5
0.024 0.61 ... ... ... ... 51 47
0.026 0.66 ... ... ... ... 37 35
0.028 0.71 ... ... ... ... 20 20.5
0.030 0.76 ... ... ... ... ... ...
A
These approximate hardness numbers are for use in selecting a suitable scale, and should not be used as hardness conversions. If necessary to convert test readings
to another scale, refer to Hardness Conversion Tables E140 (Relationship Between Brinell Hardness, Vickers Hardness, Rockwell Hardness, Rockwell Superficial
Hardness and Knoop Hardness).
27
E18 − 20
TABLE A5.4 A Minimum Thickness Guide for Selection of Scales Using the 1/16 in. (1.588 mm) Diameter Ball Indenter (see Fig. A5.2)
NOTE 1—For any given thickness, the indicated Rockwell hardness is the minimum value acceptable for testing. For a given hardness, material of any
greater thickness than that corresponding to that hardness can be tested on the indicated scale.
Rockwell Superficial Scale
Minimum Thickness
15T 30T 45T
Approximate Approximate Approximate
Hardness Hardness Hardness
in. mm Hardness Hardness Hardness
Reading Reading Reading
B-ScaleA B-ScaleA B-ScaleA
0.010 0.25 91 93 ... ... ... ...
0.012 0.30 86 78 ... ... ... ...
0.014 0.36 81 62 80 96 ... ...
0.016 0.41 75 44 72 84 71 99
0.018 0.46 68 24 64 71 62 90
0.020 0.51 ... ... 55 58 53 80
0.022 0.56 ... ... 45 43 43 70
0.024 0.61 ... ... 34 28 31 58
0.026 0.66 ... ... ... ... 18 45
0.028 0.71 ... ... ... ... 4 32
0.030 0.76 ... ... ... ... ... ...
A
These approximate hardness numbers are for use in selecting a suitable scale, and should not be used as hardness conversions. If necessary to convert test readings
to another scale refer to Hardness Conversion Tables E140 (Relationship Between Brinell Hardness, Vickers Hardness, Rockwell Hardness, Rockwell Superficial Hardness
and Knoop Hardness).
28
E18 − 20
NOTE 1—Locate a point corresponding to the thickness-hardness combination to be tested. Only scales falling to the left of this point may be used to
test this combination.
FIG. A5.1 Thickness Limits for Rockwell Hardness Testing Using the Diamond Indenter
29
E18 − 20
NOTE 1—Locate a point corresponding to the thickness-hardness combination to be tested. Only scales falling to the left of this point may be used to
test this combination.
FIG. A5.2 Thickness Limits for Rockwell Hardness Testing Using the 1/16-in. (1.588-mm) Diameter Ball Indenter
A6. HARDNESS VALUE CORRECTIONS WHEN TESTING ON CONVEX CYLINDRICAL SURFACES
30
E18 − 20
TABLE A6.1 Corrections to be Added to Rockwell C, A, and D Values Obtained on Convex Cylindrical Surfaces of Various DiametersA
Diameters of Convex Cylindrical Surfaces
Dial ⁄ in.
14 ⁄ in.
38 ⁄ in.
12 5⁄8 in. 3⁄4 in. 7⁄8 in. 1 in. 11⁄4 in. 11⁄2 in.
Reading (6.4 mm) (10 mm) (13 mm) (16 mm) (19 mm) (22 mm) (25 mm) (32 mm) (38 mm)
Corrections to be Added to Rockwell C, A, and D ValuesB
20 6.0 4.5 3.5 2.5 2.0 1.5 1.5 1.0 1.0
25 5.5 4.0 3.0 2.5 2.0 1.5 1.0 1.0 1.0
30 5.0 3.5 2.5 2.0 1.5 1.5 1.0 1.0 0.5
35 4.0 3.0 2.0 1.5 1.5 1.0 1.0 0.5 0.5
40 3.5 2.5 2.0 1.5 1.0 1.0 1.0 0.5 0.5
45 3.0 2.0 1.5 1.0 1.0 1.0 0.5 0.5 0.5
50 2.5 2.0 1.5 1.0 1.0 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5
55 2.0 1.5 1.0 1.0 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0
60 1.5 1.0 1.0 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0 0
65 1.5 1.0 1.0 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0 0
70 1.0 1.0 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0 0
75 1.0 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0 0 0
80 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0 0 0 0
85 0.5 0.5 0.5 0 0 0 0 0 0
90 0.5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
A
When testing cylindrical specimens, the accuracy of the test will be seriously affected by alignment of elevating screw, V-anvil, indenters, surface finish, and the
straightness of the cylinder.
B
These corrections are approximate only and represent the averages to the nearest 0.5 Rockwell number, of numerous actual observations.
TABLE A6.2 Corrections to be Added to Rockwell B, F, and G Values Obtained on Convex Cylindrical Surfaces of Various DiametersA
Hardness 14⁄ in. ⁄ in.
38 ⁄ in.
12 5⁄8 in. 3⁄4 in. 7⁄8 in. 1 in.
Reading (6.4 mm) (10 mm) (13 mm) (16 mm) (19 mm) (22 mm) (25 mm)
Corrections to be Added to Rockwell B, F, and G ValuesB
0 12.5 8.5 6.5 5.5 4.5 3.5 3.0
10 12.0 8.0 6.0 5.0 4.0 3.5 3.0
20 11.0 7.5 5.5 4.5 4.0 3.5 3.0
30 10.0 6.5 5.0 4.5 3.5 3.0 2.5
40 9.0 6.0 4.5 4.0 3.0 2.5 2.5
50 8.0 5.5 4.0 3.5 3.0 2.5 2.0
60 7.0 5.0 3.5 3.0 2.5 2.0 2.0
70 6.0 4.0 3.0 2.5 2.0 2.0 1.5
80 5.0 3.5 2.5 2.0 1.5 1.5 1.5
90 4.0 3.0 2.0 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.0
100 3.5 2.5 1.5 1.5 1.0 1.0 0.5
A
B
TABLE A6.3 Corrections to be Added to Rockwell Superficial 15N, 30N, and 45N Values Obtained on Convex Cylindrical Surfaces of
Various DiametersA
Hardness ⁄ in.
18 ⁄ in.
14 3⁄8 in. 1⁄2 in. 3⁄4 in. 1 in.
Reading (3.2 mm) (6.4 mm) (10 mm) (13 mm) (19 mm) (25 mm)
Corrections to be Added to Rockwell Superficial 15N, 30N, and 45N ValuesB
20 6.0 3.0 2.0 1.5 1.5 1.5
25 5.5 3.0 2.0 1.5 1.5 1.0
30 5.5 3.0 2.0 1.5 1.0 1.0
35 5.0 2.5 2.0 1.5 1.0 1.0
40 4.5 2.5 1.5 1.5 1.0 1.0
45 4.0 2.0 1.5 1.0 1.0 1.0
50 3.5 2.0 1.5 1.0 1.0 0.5
55 3.5 2.0 1.5 1.0 0.5 0.5
60 3.0 1.5 1.0 1.0 0.5 0.5
65 2.5 1.5 1.0 0.5 0.5 0.5
70 2.0 1.0 1.0 0.5 0.5 0.5
75 1.5 1.0 0.5 0.5 0.5 0
80 1.0 0.5 0.5 0.5 0 0
85 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0 0
90 0 0 0 0 0 0
A
When testing cylindrical specimens the accuracy of the test will be seriously affected by alignment of elevating screw, V-anvil, indenters, surface finish, and the
B
These corrections are approximate only and represent the averages, to the nearest 0.5 Rockwell superficial number, of numerous actual observations.
31
E18 − 20
TABLE A6.4 Corrections to be Added to Rockwell Superficial 15T, 30T, and 45T Values Obtained on Convex Cylindrical Surfaces of
Various DiametersA
Hardness ⁄ in.
18 ⁄ in.
14 ⁄ in.
38 1⁄2 in. 5⁄8 in. 3⁄4 in. 1 in.
Reading (3.2 mm) (6.4 mm) (10 mm) (13 mm) (16 mm) (19 mm) (25 mm)
Corrections to be Added to Rockwell Superficial 15T, 30T, and 45T ValuesB
20 13.0 9.0 6.0 4.5 4.5 3.0 2.0
30 11.5 7.5 5.0 3.5 3.5 2.5 2.0
40 10.0 6.5 4.5 3.5 3.0 2.5 2.0
50 8.5 5.5 4.0 3.0 2.5 2.0 1.5
60 6.5 4.5 3.0 2.5 2.0 1.5 1.5
70 5.0 3.5 2.5 2.0 1.5 1.0 1.0
80 3.0 2.0 1.5 1.5 1.0 1.0 0.5
90 1.5 1.0 1.0 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5
A
B
APPENDIXES
(Nonmandatory Information)
X1. LIST OF ASTM SPECIFICATIONS GIVING HARDNESS VALUES CORRESPONDING TO TENSILE STRENGTH
X1.1 The following ASTM standards give approximate Specifications B19, B36/B36M, B96/B96M, B103/B103M,
Rockwell hardness or Rockwell superficial hardness values B121/B121M, B122/B122M, B130, B134/B134M, B152/
corresponding to the tensile strength values specified for the B152M, and B370.
materials covered: Test Methods and Definitions A370 and
X2. EXAMPLES OF PROCEDURES FOR DETERMINING ROCKWELL HARDNESS UNCERTAINTY
X2.1 Scope blocks. The standardizing agency may report the uncertainty
value on the test block certificate.
X2.1.1 The intent of this appendix is to provide a basic
NOTE X2.1—When calculated, uncertainty values reported by a field
approach to evaluating the uncertainty of Rockwell hardness calibration agency (see X2.6) are not the measurement uncertainties of the
measurement values in order to simplify and unify the inter- hardness machine in operation, but only that of the measurements made at
pretation of uncertainty by users of Rockwell hardness. the time of verification to determine machine “error.”
NOTE X2.2—The procedures outlined in this appendix for the determi-
X2.1.2 This appendix provides basic procedures for deter- nation of uncertainties are based primarily on measurements made as part
mining the uncertainty of the following values of hardness: of the verification and standardization procedures of this test method. This
is done to provide a method that is based on familiar procedures and
X2.1.2.1 The Hardness Machine “Error” Determined as practices of Rockwell hardness users and standardizing agencies. The
Part of an Indirect Verification (see X2.6)—As part of an reader should be aware that there are other methods that may be employed
indirect verification, a number of Rockwell hardness measure- to determine the same uncertainties, which may provide more accurate
ments are made on a reference test block. The average of the estimations of the uncertainty values.
NOTE X2.3—This standard states tolerances or limits on the acceptable
measurement values is compared to the certified value of the repeatability and error of a Rockwell hardness machine (Table A1.3) and
reference block to determine the “error” (see 3.2.2) of the the nonuniformity of standardized blocks (Table A4.2). These limit values
hardness machine. The procedure described in section X2.6 were originally established based on the testing experience of many users
provides a method for determining the uncertainty in this of the Rockwell hardness test, and therefore reflect the normal perfor-
mance of a properly functioning Rockwell hardness machine, including
measurement “error” of the hardness machine. The uncertainty the normal errors associated with the measurement procedure and the
value may be reported on the verification certificate and report. machine’s performance. Because the limits are based on testing
X2.1.2.2 Rockwell Hardness Value Measured by a User (see experience, it is believed that the stated limit values take into account a
level of uncertainty that is typical for valid Rockwell hardness measure-
X2.7)—The procedure provides a method for determining the
ments. Consequently, when determining compliance with Table A1.3 and
uncertainty in the hardness values measured by a user during Table A4.2, the user’s measurement uncertainty should not be subtracted
the normal use of a Rockwell hardness machine. The user may from the tolerance limit values given in the tables, as is commonly done
report the uncertainty value with the measurement value. for other types of metrological measurements. The calculated values for
repeatability, error or block nonuniformity should be directly compared to
X2.1.2.3 Certified Value of a Rockwell Hardness Test Block the tolerance limits given in the tables.
(see X2.8) —The procedure provides a method for determining NOTE X2.4—Most product specification tolerances for Rockwell hard-
the uncertainty in the certified value of standardized test ness were established based on testing and performance experience. The
32
E18 − 20
tolerance values reflect the normal performance of a properly functioning X2.3.3 The procedures for calculating the uncertainty of
Rockwell hardness machine, including the normal acceptable errors Rockwell hardness measurement values are similar for both a
associated with the hardness measurement process. For these products, the
stated tolerance limits take into account a level of uncertainty that is
standardizing machine and testing machine. The principal
typical for valid Rockwell hardness measurements. Consequently, when difference is in the hierarchy level of the reference test blocks
acceptance testing most products for Rockwell hardness, the user’s normally used for the indirect verification. Generally, standard-
measurement uncertainty should not be subtracted from the tolerance limit izing machines are verified using primary reference standards,
values given in the specification. The measured hardness values should be and testing machines are standardized using secondary refer-
directly compared to the tolerances. There may be exceptional circum-
stances where the hardness of a product must fall within determined ence standards.
ranges to a high level of confidence. In these rare occasions, special X2.3.4 To estimate the overall uncertainty of Rockwell
agreement between the parties involved should be obtained before the
hardness measurement uncertainty is subtracted from the tolerance limits. hardness measurement values, contributing components of
Before such an agreement is made, it is recommended that the product uncertainty must be determined. Because many of the uncer-
design take into consideration the anticipated influence of material and tainties may vary depending on the specific hardness scale and
metallurgical factors on the product variation as well as typical industry hardness level, an individual measurement uncertainty should
hardness uncertainty values. be determined for each hardness scale and hardness level of
X2.1.3 This appendix does not address uncertainties at the interest. In many cases, a single uncertainty value may be
primary reference standardizing level. applied to a range of hardness levels based on the laboratory’s
experience and knowledge of the operation of the hardness
X2.2 Equations machine.
X2.2.1 The average (AVG), H̄, of a set of n hardness X2.3.5 Uncertainty should be determined with respect to a
measurements H1, H2, …, Hn is calculated as: country’s highest level of reference standard or the national
H 1 1H 2 1…1H n reference standard of another country. In some cases, the
H5
AVG~ H 1 , H 2 , …, H ! 5 H (X2.1) highest level of reference standard may be a commercial
n
reference standard.
X2.2.2 The standard deviation (STDEV ) of a set of n
hardness measurements H1, H2, …, Hn is calculated as: X2.4 General Procedure
STDEV~ H 1 , H 2 , …, H n ! 5 Œ ~ H 1 2 HH ! 2 1…1 ~ H n 2 HH ! 2
n21
X2.4.1 This procedure calculates a combined standard un-
certainty uc by combining the contributing components of
(X2.2) uncertainty u1, u2, …, un, such that:
where H̄ is the average of the set of n hardness measure- u c 5 =u 21 1u 22 1…1u 2n (X2.3)

ments H1, H2, …, Hn as defined in Eq X2.1. X2.4.2 Measurement uncertainty is usually expressed as an
X2.2.3 The absolute value (ABS) of a number is the mag- expanded uncertainty U which is calculated by multiplying the
nitude of the value irrespective of the sign, for example: combined standard uncertainty uc by a numerical coverage
factor k, such that:
ABS~ 0.12! 5 0.12
and U 5 k 3 uc (X2.4)
ABS~ 20.12! 5 0.12
X2.4.3 A coverage factor is chosen that depends on how
well the standard uncertainty was estimated (number of
X2.3 General Requirements measurements), and the level of uncertainty that is desired. For
X2.3.1 The approach for determining uncertainty presented this analysis, a coverage factor of k = 2 should be used. This
in this appendix considers only those uncertainties associated coverage factor provides a confidence level of approximately
with the overall measurement performance of the Rockwell 95 %.
hardness machine with respect to reference standards. These
X2.4.4 The measurement bias B of the hardness machine is
performance uncertainties reflect the combined effect of the
the difference between the expected hardness measurement
separate uncertainties associated with the numerous individual
values as displayed by the hardness machine and the “true”
components of the machine, such as the force application
hardness of a material. Ideally, measurement biases should be
system and indentation depth measuring system. Therefore, the
corrected. When test systems are not corrected for measure-
uncertainties associated with the individual components of the
ment bias, as often occurs in Rockwell hardness testing, the
machine are not included in the calculations. Because of this
bias then contributes to the overall uncertainty in a measure-
approach, it is important that the individual machine compo-
ment. There are a number of possible methods for incorporat-
nents are operating within tolerances. It is strongly recom-
ing biases into an uncertainty calculation, each of which has
mended that this procedure be applied only after successfully
both advantages and disadvantages. A simple and conservative
passing a direct verification.
method is to combine the bias with the calculation of the
X2.3.2 The procedures given in this appendix are appropri- expanded uncertainty as:
ate only when the Rockwell hardness machine has passed an U 5 kuc 1ABS~ B ! (X2.5)
indirect verification in accordance with the procedures and
schedules of this test method standard. where ABS(B) is the absolute value of the bias.
33
E18 − 20
X2.4.5 Because several approaches may be used to evaluate where H1, H2, ..., Hn are the n hardness values. In general,
and express measurement uncertainty, a brief description of the estimate of repeatability is improved as the number of
what the reported uncertainty values represent should be hardness measurements is increased. Usually, the hardness
included with the reported uncertainty value. values measured during an indirect verification will provide an
adequate estimate of uRepeat; however, the caution given in
X2.5 Sources of Uncertainty Note X2.6 should be considered. It may be more appropriate
for the user to determine a value of uRepeat by making hardness
X2.5.1 This section describes the most significant sources measurements close together (within spacing limitations) on a
of uncertainty in a Rockwell hardness measurement and uniform material, such as a test block.
provides procedures and formulas for calculating the total
uncertainty in the hardness value. In later sections, it will be NOTE X2.5—The uncertainty uRepeat, due to the lack of repeatability of
a hardness machine as discussed above, should not be confused with the
shown how these sources of uncertainty contribute to the total
historically defined “repeatability” that is a requirement to be met as part
measurement uncertainty for the three measurement circum- of an indirect verification (see 3.2.3). The calculations of the uncertainty
stances described in X2.1.2. uRepeat and of the historically defined repeatability do not produce the
same value. The uncertainty uRepeat is the contribution to the overall
X2.5.2 The sources of uncertainty to be discussed are (1) the uncertainty of a hardness measurement value due to a machine’s lack of
hardness machine’s lack of repeatability, (2) the non- repeatability, while the historically defined repeatability is the range of
uniformity in hardness of the material under test, (3) the hardness values measured during an indirect verification.
hardness machine’s lack of reproducibility, (4) the resolution NOTE X2.6—All materials exhibit some degree of hardness non-
uniformity across the test surface. Therefore, the above evaluation of the
of the hardness machine’s measurement display, and (5) the uncertainty contribution due to the lack of repeatability will also include
uncertainty in the certified value of the reference test block a contribution due to the hardness non-uniformity of the measured
standards. An estimation of the measurement bias and its material. When evaluating repeatability as discussed above, any uncer-
inclusion into the expanded uncertainty will also be discussed. tainty contribution due to the hardness non-uniformity should be mini-
mized as much as possible. The laboratory should be cautioned that if the
X2.5.3 Uncertainty Due to Lack of Repeatability (uRepeat) measurements of repeatability are based on tests made across the surface
and when Combined with Non-uniformity (uRep& NU)—The of the material, then the repeatability value will likely include a significant
uncertainty contribution due to the material’s non-uniformity. A machine’s
repeatability of a hardness machine is an indication of how repeatability is better evaluated by making hardness measurements close
well it can continually produce the same hardness value each together (within spacing limitations).
time a measurement is made. Imagine there is a material, which
X2.5.3.3 Average of Multiple Measurements—When the
is perfectly uniform in hardness over its entire surface. Also
average of multiple hardness test values is to be reported, the
imagine that hardness measurements are made repeatedly on
H , due to the lack of
standard uncertainty contribution u Repeat
this uniform material over a short period of time without
repeatability of the hardness machine, may be estimated by
varying the testing conditions (including the operator). Even
dividing the standard uncertainty contribution uRepeat (previ-
though the actual hardness of every test location is exactly the
ously calculated from a number of hardness measurements
same, it would be found that due to random errors each
made on a uniform test sample, see X2.5.3.1) by the square-
measurement value would differ from all other measurement
root of the number of hardness test values being averaged, as:
values (assuming sufficient measurement resolution).
Therefore, lack of repeatability prevents the hardness machine u Repeat
u Repeat
H 5 (X2.7)
from being able to always measure the true hardness of the =n T
material, and hence contributes to the uncertainty in the
measurement. where uRepeat is calculated by Eq X2.6 and nT is the number
X2.5.3.1 The contribution that a hardness machine’s lack of of individual hardness test values being averaged.
repeatability makes to the overall measurement uncertainty is X2.5.3.4 Estimate of the Material Hardness—Hardness
determined differently depending on whether a single measure- measurements are often made at several locations and the
ment value or an average of multiple measurements is to be values averaged in order to estimate the average hardness of
reported. Additionally, in cases where the reported average the material as a whole. For example, this may be done when
measurement value is intended to be an estimate of the average making quality control measurements during the manufacture
hardness of the material tested, the uncertainty contributions of many types of products; when determining the machine
due to the machine’s lack of repeatability and the non- “error” as part of an indirect verification; and when calibrating
uniformity in the hardness of the test material are difficult to a test block. Because all materials exhibit some degree of
separate and must be determined together. The uncertainty hardness non-uniformity across the test surface, the extent of a
material’s non-uniformity also contributes to the uncertainty in
contributions for each of these circumstances may be estimated
this estimate of the average hardness of the material. When the
as follows.
average of multiple hardness measurement values is calculated
X2.5.3.2 Single Hardness Measurement—For a future as an estimate of the average material or product hardness, it
single hardness measurement, the standard uncertainty contri- may be desired to state the uncertainty in this value with
bution uRepeat, due to the lack of repeatability, may be esti- respect to the true hardness of the material. In this case, the
mated by the standard deviation of the values from a number of combined uncertainty contributions due to the lack of repeat-
hardness measurements made on a uniform test sample as: ability in the hardness machine and the non-uniformity in the
u Repeat 5 STDEV~ H 1 , H 2 , …, H n ! (X2.6) test material may be estimated from the “standard deviation of
34
E18 − 20
the mean” of the hardness measurement values. This is reference test block value is traceable. This uncertainty con-
calculated as the standard deviation of the hardness values, tributes to the measurement uncertainty of hardness machines
divided by the square-root of the number of measurements as: calibrated or verified with the reference test blocks. Note that
STDEV~ H T1 , H T2 , …, H Tn! the uncertainty reported on reference test block certificates is
u Rep& NU 5 (X2.8) typically stated as an expanded uncertainty. As indicated by Eq
=n T X2.4, the expanded uncertainty is calculated by multiplying the
where HT1, HT2, ..., HTn are the nT measurement values. standard uncertainty by a coverage factor (often 2). This
analysis uses the standard uncertainty and not the expanded
X2.5.4 Uncertainty Due to Lack of Reproducibility uncertainty value. Thus, the uncertainty value due to the
(uReprod)—The day-to-day variation in the performance of the uncertainty in the certified value of the reference test block
hardness machine is known as its level of reproducibility. usually may be calculated as:
Variations such as different machine operators and changes in
the test environment often influence the performance of the U RefBlk
u RefBlk 5 (X2.11)
hardness machine. The level of reproducibility is best deter- k RefBlk
mined by monitoring the performance of the hardness machine where URefBlk is the reported expanded uncertainty of the
over an extended period of time during which the hardness certified value of the reference test block, and kRefBlk is the
machine is subjected to the extremes of variations in the testing coverage factor used to calculate the uncertainty in the certified
variables. It is very important that the test machine be in value of the reference standard (usually 2).
control during the assessment of reproducibility. If the machine
is in need of maintenance or is operated incorrectly, the lack of X2.5.8 Measurement Bias (B)—The measurement bias is
reproducibility will be over estimated. the difference between the hardness measurement values as
displayed by the hardness machine and the “true” hardness of
X2.5.5 An assessment of a hardness machine’s lack of a material. The measurement bias B may be estimated by the
reproducibility should be based on periodic monitoring mea- “error” determined as part of the indirect verification as:
surements of the hardness machine, such as daily verification
H2H
B5H H (X2.12)
measurements made on the same test block over time. The RefBlk
uncertainty contribution may be estimated by the standard where H̄ is the mean hardness value as measured by the
deviation of the average of each set of monitoring values, as: hardness machine during the indirect verification, and H̄RefBlk is
u Reprod 5 STDEV~ M 1 , M 2 , …, M n ! (X2.9) the certified average hardness value of the reference test block
standard used for the indirect verification.
where M1, M2, ..., Mn are individual averages of each of the
n sets of multiple monitoring measurement values. X2.6 Procedure for Calculating Uncertainty: Indirect
NOTE X2.7—The uncertainty contribution due to the lack of Verification
reproducibility, as calculated in Eq X2.10, also includes a contribution due
to the machine’s lack of repeatability and the non-uniformity of the X2.6.1 As part of an indirect verification, the “error” of the
monitoring test block; however, these contributions are based on the hardness machine is determined from the average value of
average of multiple measurements and should not significantly over-
measurements made on a reference test block (see 3.2.2). This
estimate the reproducibility uncertainty.
value provides an indication of how well the hardness machine
X2.5.6 Uncertainty Due to the Resolution of the Hardness can measure the “true” hardness of a material. Since there is
Measurement Display (uResol)—The finite resolution of the always uncertainty in a hardness measurement, it follows that
hardness value display prevents the hardness machine from there must be uncertainty in the determination of the average
providing an absolutely accurate hardness value. However, the value of the measurements, and thus the determination of the
influence of the display resolution on the measurement uncer- machine “error.” This section provides a procedure that can be
tainty is usually only significant when the hardness display used, for example by a field calibration agency, to estimate the
resolution is no better than 0.5 Rockwell hardness units, such uncertainty UMach in the measurement “error” of the hardness
as for some dial displays. The uncertainty contribution uResol, machine determined as the difference between the average of
due to the influence of the display resolution, may be described the measurement values and the certified value of the reference
by a rectangular distribution and estimated as: block used for the verification.
r/2 r X2.6.2 The contributions to the standard uncertainty of the
u Resol 5 5 (X2.10)
=3 =12 measurement “error,” uMach, are (1) uRep& NU (Ref. Block), the
uncertainty due to the lack of repeatability of the hardness
where r is the resolution limit that a hardness value can be machine combined with the uncertainty due to the non-
estimated from the measurement display in Rockwell hardness uniformity in the reference test block (Eq X2.9), which is
units. determined from the hardness measurements made on a refer-
X2.5.7 Standard Uncertainty in the Certified Average Hard- ence test block to determine the “error” of the hardness
ness Value of the Reference Test Block (uRefBlk)—Reference test machine, (2) uResol, the uncertainty due to the resolution of the
blocks provide the link to the Rockwell standard to which hardness machine measurement display (Eq X2.11), and (3)
traceability is claimed. The certificate accompanying reference uRefBlk, the standard uncertainty in the certified value of the
test blocks should provide an uncertainty in the stated certified reference test block (Eq X2.12). The notation (Ref. Block) is
value, and should state to which Rockwell standard the added to the term uRep& NU to clarify that the uncertainty is
35
E18 − 20
determined from measurements made on the reference block 0.1
u Resol 5 5 0.029 HRC, and
used for the indirect verification. =12
X2.6.3 The combined standard uncertainty uMach and the 0.45
u RefBlk 5 5 0.225 HRC
expanded uncertainty UMach are calculated by combining the 2
appropriate uncertainty components described above for each Thus,
hardness level of each Rockwell scale as: u Mach 5 =0.0752 10.0292 10.2252 5 0.239 HRC, and
U Mach 5 ~ 2 3 0.239! 5 0.48 HRC
u Mach 5 =u 2
Rep& NU
2
~ Ref. Block! 1u Resol 2
1u RefBlk (X2.13)
Therefore, the uncertainty in the −0.26 HRC “error” in the
and hardness machine is 0.48 HRC. Although this evaluation was
U Mach 5 kuMach (X2.14) made on material having a hardness of approximately 25 HRC,
the uncertainty may be considered to apply to the entire low
X2.6.4 For this analysis, a coverage factor of k = 2 should range of the HRC scale. This calculation must be made for the
be used. This coverage factor provides a confidence level of mid and high ranges of the HRC scale, as well as for the ranges
approximately 95 %. of the other Rockwell scales that are verified.
NOTE X2.8—The uncertainty contribution uMach as calculated in Eq NOTE X2.10—The reader should be aware that in computing the final
X2.14 does not include a contribution due to the machine’s lack of uncertainty value in all examples in this appendix, no rounding of results
reproducibility. This is because it is assumed that the indirect verification was done between steps. Consequently, if individual equations are solved
is made while the hardness machine is operating at its optimal perfor- using the rounded values that are given at each step of this example, some
mance level with the best possible environmental conditions. computed results might differ in value in the last decimal place from the
NOTE X2.9—The expanded uncertainty UMach will commonly be larger results stated.
than the value of the hardness machine “error.”
X2.7 Procedure for Calculating Uncertainty: Rockwell
X2.6.5 Reporting the Measurement Uncertainty—This ex- Hardness Measurement Values
panded uncertainty UMach may be reported by a verification
agency to its customer as an indication of the uncertainty in the X2.7.1 The uncertainty UMeas in a hardness value measured
hardness machine “error” reported as part of the indirect by a user may be thought of as an indication of how well the
verification of the Rockwell hardness machine. The value of measured value agrees with the “true” value of the hardness of
UMach should be supplemented with a statement defining to the material.
what Rockwell scale and hardness level the uncertainty is X2.7.2 Single Measurement Value—When measurement un-
applicable, with an explanatory statement such as, “The certainty for a single hardness measurement value is to be
expanded uncertainty of the hardness machine “error” reported determined, the contributions to the standard uncertainty uMeas
as part of the indirect verification for the stated Rockwell are (1) uRepeat, the uncertainty due to the machine’s lack of
scale(s) and hardness level(s) is with respect to Rockwell repeatability (Eq X2.6), (2) uReprod , the uncertainty contribu-
hardness reference standards maintained at ______________ tion due to the lack of reproducibility (Eq X2.10), (3) uResol, the
(for example, NIST), and was calculated in accordance with uncertainty due to the resolution of the hardness machine
Appendix X2 of ASTM E18 with a coverage factor of 2 measurement display (Eq X2.11), and (4) uMach, the uncer-
representing a confidence level of approximately 95 %.” tainty in determining the “error” of the hardness machine (Eq
X2.14). The combined standard uncertainty uMeas is calculated
X2.6.6 The standard uncertainty value uMach can be used as
by combining the appropriate uncertainty components de-
an uncertainty contribution when determining the measurement
scribed above for the applicable hardness level and Rockwell
uncertainty of future measurements made with the hardness
scale as:
machine (see X2.7 and X2.8).
u Meas 5 =u Repeat
2
1u 2Reprod1u Resol
2
1u 2Mach (X2.15)
X2.6.7 Example X2.1— As part of an indirect verification of
a Rockwell hardness machine, a verification agency needs to X2.7.3 Average Measurement Value—In the case that mea-
report an estimate of the uncertainty of the hardness machine surement uncertainty is to be determined for an average value
“error.” For this example, an evaluation will only be made for of multiple hardness measurements, made either on the same
measurements made on the low range of the HRC scale. The test piece or multiple test pieces, the contributions to the
hardness machine has a digital display with a resolution of 0.1 standard uncertainty uMeas are (1) uRepeat—, the uncertainty due
HRC. The agency performs five verification measurements on to the machine’s lack of repeatability based on the average of
a low range HRC hardness block. The reported certified value multiple measurements (Eq X2.8), (2) uReprod, the uncertainty
of the reference test block is 25.7 HRC with an expanded contribution due to the lack of reproducibility (Eq X2.10), (3)
uncertainty of URefBlk = 0.45 HRC. The five verification uResol , the uncertainty due to the resolution of the hardness
measurements values are: 25.4, 25.3, 25.5, 25.3, and 25.7 machine measurement display (Eq X2.11), and (4) uMach, the
HRC, resulting in an average value of 25.44 HRC, a repeat- uncertainty in determining the “error” of the hardness machine
ability (range) value of 0.4 HRC and an “error” of −0.26 HRC. (Eq X2.14). The combined standard uncertainty uMeas is
Therefore: calculated by combining the appropriate uncertainty compo-
STDEV~ 25.4, 25.3, 25.5, 25.3, 25.7!
nents described above for the applicable hardness level and
u Rep& NU ~ Ref. Block! 5 Rockwell scale as:
=5
or u Rep& NU ~ Ref. Block! 5 0.075 HRC u Meas 5 =u 2
¯
Repeat
2
1u Reprod 2
1u Resol1u 2Mach (X2.16)
36
E18 − 20
X2.7.4 The measurement uncertainty discussed above for uncertainty as an indication of how well the average measure-
the single and average hardness values only represents the ment value represents the true average hardness of the material,
uncertainties of the measurement process and are independent then the value of UMeas should be supplemented with an
of any test material non-uniformity. explanatory statement such as, “The expanded uncertainty of
X2.7.5 Average Measurement Value as an Estimate of the the reported average hardness of the material under test is
Average Material Hardness—Measurement laboratories and based on uncertainty contributions from the measurement
manufacturing facilities often measure the Rockwell hardness process and from the hardness non-uniformity of the material.
of a test sample or product for the purpose of estimating the The uncertainty is with respect to Rockwell hardness reference
average hardness of the test material. Usually, multiple hard- standards maintained at ______________ [for example,
ness measurements are made across the surface of the test NIST], and was calculated in accordance with Appendix X2 of
piece, and then the average of the hardness values is reported ASTM E18 with a coverage factor of 2 representing a
as an estimation of the average hardness of the material. If it is confidence level of approximately 95 %.” If the test report does
desired to report the uncertainty as an indication of how well not state the number of measurements that were averaged and
the average measurement value represents the true average the locations that the measurements were made, then this
hardness of the material, then the contributions to the standard information should also be included as part of the brief
uncertainty uMeas are (1) uRep& NU (Material), the uncertainty explanation of how the uncertainty was calculated.
due to the machine’s lack of repeatability combined with the X2.7.8.3 Example X2.2— For this example, a company tests
uncertainty due to the material’s non-uniformity (Eq X2.9), its product by making six Rockwell hardness measurements
which is determined from the hardness measurements made on across its surface as an estimate of the product hardness. The
the test material, (2) uReprod, the uncertainty contribution due to hardness machine has a dial display that is judged to have a
the lack of reproducibility (Eq X2.10), (3) uResol, the uncer- reading resolution of 0.5 HRC. The values of the hardness
tainty due to the resolution of the hardness machine measure- measurements of the product were 33, 31.5, 31.5, 32, 31, 32.5,
ment display (Eq X2.11), and (4) uMach, the uncertainty in resulting in an average value of 31.92 HRC. The testing facility
determining the “error” of the hardness machine (Eq X2.14). would like to determine the measurement uncertainty in the
The notation (Material ) is added to the term uRep& NU to clarify average hardness value. A hardness of 31.92 HRC is closest to
that the uncertainty is determined from measurements made on the low range of the HRC scale (see Table A1.3). The last
the material under test. The combined standard uncertainty indirect verification of the low range of the HRC scale reported
uMeas is calculated by combining the appropriate uncertainty UMach = 0.8 HRC and an “error” of −0.3 HRC. Therefore:
components described above for the applicable hardness level STDEV~ 33, 31.5, 31.5, 32, 31, 32.5!
u Rep& NU ~ Material! 5 or
and Rockwell scale as: =6
u Rep& NU ~ Material! 5 0.300 HRC
u Meas 5 =u 2
Rep& NU
2
~ Material! 1u Reprod 2
1u Resol1u 2Mach (X2.17)
X2.7.6 When reporting uncertainty as an indication of how For this example, assume the hardness machine has been
well the average measurement value represents the true aver- monitored for an extended period of time, and from Eq X2.10,
age hardness of the material, it is important to assure that a it was determined that uReprod = 0.21 HRC for the low range of
sufficient number of measurements are made at the appropriate the HRC scale. Other uncertainty contributions are calculated
test locations to provide an appropriate sampling of any as:
variations in the hardness of the material. 0.5
u Resol 5 5 0.144 HRC and
X2.7.7 The expanded uncertainty UMeas is calculated for the =12
three cases discussed above as: 0.8
u Mach 5 5 0.4 HRC, therefore
U Meas 5 kuMeas1ABS~ B ! (X2.18) 2
u Meas 5 =0.3002 10.212 10.1442 10.42 5 0.561 HRC
For this analysis, a coverage factor of k = 2 should be used.
This coverage factor provides a confidence level of approxi- and since B = −0.3 HRC, UMeas = (2 × 0.561) + ABS(−0.3),
mately 95 %. or UMeas = 1.42 HRC for the average value of the hardness
X2.7.8 Reporting Measurement Uncertainty: measurements made on the single product item.
X2.7.8.1 Single and Average Measurement Values—When X2.8 Procedure for Calculating Uncertainty: Certified
the reported measurement value is for a single hardness test or Value of Standardized Test Blocks
the average of multiple hardness tests, then the value of UMeas
should be supplemented with an explanatory statement such as, X2.8.1 Standardizing laboratories engaged in the calibration
“The expanded measurement uncertainty of the reported hard- of reference test blocks must determine the uncertainty in the
ness value (or average hardness value) is with respect to reported certified value. This uncertainty UCert provides an
Rockwell hardness reference standards maintained at ______ indication of how well the certified value would agree with the
________ [for example, NIST], and was calculated in accor- “true” average hardness of the test block.
dance with Appendix X2 of ASTM E18 with a coverage factor X2.8.2 Test blocks are certified as having an average
of 2 representing a confidence level of approximately 95 %.” hardness value based on calibration measurements made across
X2.7.8.2 Average Measurement Value as an Estimate of the the surface of the test block. This analysis is essentially
Average Material Hardness—When it is desired to report the identical to the analysis given in 5.3.1 for measuring the
37
E18 − 20
average hardness of a product. In this case, the product is a maintained at ______________ [for example, NIST], and was
calibrated reference test block. The contributions to the stan- calculated in accordance with Appendix X2 of ASTM E18 with
dard uncertainty uCert of the certified average value of the test a coverage factor of 2 representing a confidence level of
block are (1) uRep& NU (Calib. Block), the uncertainty due to the approximately 95 %.”
standardizing machine’s lack of repeatability combined with
the uncertainty due to the calibrated block’s non-uniformity X2.8.6 Example X2.3— A secondary level test-block stan-
(Eq X2.9), which is determined from the calibration measure- dardizing laboratory has completed the calibration of a test
ments made on the test block, (2) uReprod, the uncertainty block in the hardness range of 40 HRC. The values of the
contribution due to the lack of reproducibility (Eq X2.10), (3) calibration measurements of the block were 40.61, 40.72,
uResol, the uncertainty due to the resolution of the standardizing 40.65, 40.61, and 40.55 HRC, resulting in an average value of
machine’s measurement display (Eq X2.11), and (4) uMach, the 40.63 HRC and an E18 repeatability range of 0.17 HRC. The
uncertainty in determining the “error” of the standardizing laboratory must determine the uncertainty in the certified
machine (Eq X2.14). The notation (Calib.Block) is added to the average hardness value of the block. A hardness of 40 HRC is
term uRep& NU to clarify that the uncertainty is determined from considered within the mid-range of the HRC scale (see Table
calibration measurements made on the calibrated block. A1.3). The last indirect verification of the mid range of the
HRC scale reported UMach = 0.16 HRC and an “error” of +0.11
X2.8.3 The combined standard uncertainty uCert and the HRC. The standardizing machine has a digital display with a
expanded uncertainty uCert are calculated by combining the resolution of 0.01 HRC. Therefore:
appropriate uncertainty components described above for each
hardness level of each Rockwell scale as: STDEV~ 40.61, 40.72, 40.65, 40.61, 40.55!
u Rep& NU ~ Calib. Block! 5 or
=5
u Cert 5 =u 2
Rep& NU ~ Calib. Block! 1u 2
1u
Reprod
2
1u
Resol
2
Mach u Rep& NU ~ Calib. Block! 5 0.028 HRC
(X2.19)
For this example, let’s assume that the standardizing ma-
and
chine has been monitored for an extended period of time, and
U Cert 5 kuCert1ABS~ B ! (X2.20) from Eq X2.10, it was determined that uReprod = 0.125 HRC for
X2.8.4 For this analysis, a coverage factor of k = 2 should the mid range of the HRC scale. Other uncertainty contribu-
be used. This coverage factor provides a confidence level of tions are calculated as:
approximately 95 %. 0.01
u Resol 5 5 0.003 HRC and
X2.8.5 Reporting the Measurement Uncertainty—The value =12
of UCert is an estimate of the uncertainty in the reported 0.16
certified average hardness value of a reference test block. The u Mach 5 5 0.08 HRC therefore,
2
reported value should be supplemented with a statement u Cert 5 =0.0282 10.1252 10.0032 10.082 5 0.151 HRC
defining to what Rockwell scale and hardness level the
uncertainty is applicable, with an explanatory statement such and, since B = +0.11 HRC, UCert = (2 × 0.151) + ABS(+0.11),
as, “The expanded uncertainty in the certified value of the test or UCert = 0.41 HRC for the certified hardness value of the
block is with respect to Rockwell hardness reference standards single calibrated test block.
SUMMARY OF CHANGES
Committee E28 has identified the location of selected changes to this standard since the last issue (E18–19)
that may impact the use of this standard. (Approved February 1, 2020.)
(1) Revised A1.5.3.5.
Committee E28 has identified the location of selected changes to this standard since the last issue (E18–18a)
that may impact the use of this standard. (Approved January 1, 2019.)
(1) Added 7.1.1 and Note 8. (3) Added A1.4.3.1.

(2) Revised Table A1.3.
Committee E28 has identified the location of selected changes to this standard since the last issue (E18–18)
that may impact the use of this standard. (Approved October 1, 2018.)
(1) Removed Notes A2.1, A2.2, A3.2, and A4.1.
38
E18 − 20
Committee E28 has identified the location of selected changes to this standard since the last issue (E18–17ɛ1)
that may impact the use of this standard. (Approved July 1, 2018.)
(1) Added 1.2. (4) Added 5.8.

(2) Added 3.1.7.3. (5) Added 9.2.
(3) Added 3.1.7.4. (6) Revised Table A1.1.
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39

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This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles

Designation: E18 − 20 An American National Standard

Standard Test Methods for

1. Scope* kilograms-force (kgf) and the indenter ball diameters were

*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard

3.2.2 The error E in the performance of a Rockwell hard-

TABLE 1 Rockwell Hardness Scales

7.9.2 The distance from the center of any indentation to an

A1. VERIFICATION OF ROCKWELL HARDNESS TESTING MACHINES

A1.1 Scope A1.2 General Requirements

A2. ROCKWELL HARDNESS STANDARDIZING MACHINES

measurement shall indicate a hardness number within HRA 20 to 65 1.0 ± 0.5

A3. STANDARDIZATION OF ROCKWELL INDENTERS

A3.1 Scope A3.2 Accreditation

TABLE A3.8 Test Blocks to be Used for Class A Diamond

A4. STANDARDIZATION OF ROCKWELL HARDNESS TEST BLOCKS

A4.1 Scope A4.1.2 Adherence to this standard and annex provides

A5. GUIDELINES FOR DETERMINING THE MINIMUM THICKNESS OF A TEST PIECE

TABLE A5.1 A Minimum Thickness Guide for Selection of Scales

TABLE A5.2 A Minimum Thickness Guide for Selection of Scales

A6. HARDNESS VALUE CORRECTIONS WHEN TESTING ON CONVEX CYLINDRICAL SURFACES

X2. EXAMPLES OF PROCEDURES FOR DETERMINING ROCKWELL HARDNESS UNCERTAINTY

where H̄ is the average of the set of n hardness measure- u c 5 =u 21 1u 22 1…1u 2n (X2.3)

(1) Revised A1.5.3.5.

(1) Added 7.1.1 and Note 8. (3) Added A1.4.3.1.

(1) Removed Notes A2.1, A2.2, A3.2, and A4.1.

(1) Added 1.2. (4) Added 5.8.

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