Vickersmetoden

Vickersmetoden is a method for measuring the hardness of materials, specifically using a Vickers hardness tester. Developed in the early 20th century, it is also known as the diamond pyramid hardness test. The test involves pressing a diamond indenter, shaped as a square-based pyramid, into the surface of the material being tested. The indenter has an angle of 136 degrees between opposite faces.

The indentation created by the diamond is then measured under a microscope. The hardness value is calculated based on the length of the diagonals of the indentation. A higher indentation depth or larger diagonal measurement indicates a softer material, while a shallower indentation with shorter diagonals signifies a harder material. The Vickers hardness number (HV) is expressed in kilograms-force per square millimeter (kgf/mm²).

A key advantage of the Vickers method is its ability to measure a wide range of hardness values, from very soft to very hard materials, with a single type of indenter. It is also applicable to all types of metals and is used in various industries, including manufacturing, research, and quality control. The test is non-destructive in the sense that the indentation is small and often does not compromise the structural integrity of the sample, making it suitable for testing finished products. Different load forces can be applied to the indenter, ranging from a few grams to 120 kilograms, allowing for flexibility in testing various material thicknesses and sensitivities.