How To Operate The Analog Rockwell Hardness Tester
- Move the crank handle to the forward or start position.
- Select the proper indenter/penetrator and insert it into the plunger rod receiver.
- Place the proper anvil into the elevating screw.
- Select proper major load either by turning the selector knob or by adding or removing weight(s). (depending on the tester model you have).
- Place specimen or Rockwell test block on the anvil. Make sure the underside of the specimen is free from scale and burrs.
- Raise specimen into contact with the indenter/penetrator by turning the capstan handwheel clockwise. Continue turning until the small pointer is near the black zone or dot. Continue until the long pointer is in a vertical position (within 5 divisions, plus or minus). The minor load (10 kg for regular Rockwell and 3 kg for superficial Rockwell) is now fully applied.
- Set the dial to zero. Adjust the dial gage until the zero set line is aligned behind the long pointer.
- Push down on the load release bar to apply the major load.
- When the long pointer comes to rest, within 2-3 seconds, return the crank handle to its forward or start position. This removes the major load. (The minor load is still applied).
- In this step you will obtain your reading. Record the Rockwell number that the long pointer is pointing to. (typically the C scale is in black and the B scale is in red)
- Remove the minor load by turning the capstan handwheel counter-clockwise, lowering the elevation screw and specimen so that they clear the indenter/penetrator.
- Remove the specimen or move to another area of the specimen or test block for additional testing. Be sure to be at least three indent diameters away from any other indention for accurate readings.
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