Volumenhärte

Volumenhärte, often translated as volume hardness or bulk hardness, refers to the mechanical hardness measured within the bulk material of a substance, as opposed to its surface. This measurement is crucial for understanding the material's intrinsic resistance to deformation and wear throughout its entire volume. Unlike surface hardness tests that are influenced by surface treatments, coatings, or microstructural variations at the surface, volumenhärte provides a more representative picture of the material's fundamental properties.

The measurement of volumenhärte typically involves indentation tests where a standardized indenter is pressed into the material with a specific load for a defined period. The depth or size of the resulting indentation is then used to calculate a hardness value. Common testing methods include Vickers, Rockwell, and Brinell hardness tests, though the interpretation of the results must consider whether the measurement is truly reflecting the bulk or if surface effects are still playing a role. For very thin films or materials with significant surface hardening, ensuring the indentation is deep enough to overcome surface influences is paramount for obtaining a true volumenhärte. This property is vital in engineering applications where internal stresses, material fatigue, and overall structural integrity are critical.