This chapter discusses the operating mechanism, applications, advantages, and limitations of Brinell hardness testing, Rockwell hardness testing, Vickers hardness testing, Scleroscope hardness testing, and microhardness testing. In addition, the general precautions and selection criteria to be considered are described and details of equipment setup provided.

This chapter describes the procedures, characteristics, and applications for static hardness test methods. It addresses test methods that are state of the art, commonly used, or that may find increased use due to certain advantages. The methods addressed are Rockwell hardness testing (ISO 6508 and ASTM E 18), Vickers hardness testing (ISO 6507, ASTM E92, and ASTM E384), Brinell hardness testing (ISO 6506 and ASTM E10), and Knoop hardness testing (ISO 4545 and ASTM E284). The chapter also discusses the advantages and disadvantages of these test methods.

This chapter reviews the general principles involved in codifying standards and describes the historical development of materials testing standards. It provides information on the standards related to the Brinell, Vickers, Rockwell, and Knoop methods as well as those for the instrumented indentation test and hardness conversions.