I.Test Preparation
1.The thickness of the prepared sample shall be no less than 8 times the indentation depth(usually ≥10mm) to prevent the indentation from penetrating the sample or being affected by the support of the bottom surface.
2.Wear protective gloves during handling to avoid direct contact between fingers and the sample surface, which may cause contamination or scratches.
3.If different samples need to be distinguished, mark serial numbers on the non-test surfaceto prevent interference with the indentation area.
4.Ensure that the sample material is matched with the indenter material(e.g., a tungsten carbide indenter is required for high-hardness materials) to avoid excessive indenter wear or sample cracking.
II. Operating Procedures
1.Equipment Startup and Self-test
After confirming that the equipment power cord is connected correctly, plug it into a 220V, 50/60Hz power socket and turn on the rear power switch. The equipment will perform self-test, the display screen will light up and show the initial interface. After the self-test is completed, the equipment will reset automatically and enter the standby state for operation
.
2. Indenter Installation and Commissioning
Based on the characteristics of the material to be tested, select a cemented carbide ball indenter of appropriate size (φ2.5, 5, 10 mm). Clean the anti-rust oil with alcohol and wipe it to a smooth finish with a clean cotton cloth. Insert the indenter into the spindle hole and rotate the fixing screw to fit the flat part of the indenter shank, ensuring a firm installation. Then select a test platform (large flat platform, small flat platform, V-shaped platform) according to the sample shape, place the sample stably and tightly, and ensure the surface is clean and free of impurities.
3.Test Force Selection and Setting
The HB-3000C Electronic Brinell Hardness Tester provides 10 levels of precise test forces (ranging from 612.9 N to 29421 N). The operator can select the required force level on the 8-inch touch screen according to testing requirements, and the tester will automatically configure the weights to achieve the set test force.
Meanwhile, the dwell time can be set from 0 to 60 seconds on the touch screen based on material properties. For general materials, the recommended dwell time is 10–15 seconds.
4.Brinell Hardness Test
Place the workpiece on the workbench, and rotate the handwheel clockwise at a steady and uniform speed to raise the sample stage. Stop rotating immediately once a beep sounds when the sample makes contact with the indenter.
The tester will automatically initiate the test, which includes applying, holding, and unloading the main test force in sequence to form an indentation. Then rotate the handwheel counterclockwise to lower the sample stage and remove the tested sample.
5.Brinell Hardness Indentation Measurement
Remove the sample, on which a circular indentation will be visible. Measure the indentation diameter using a 20× measuring microscope, then input the measured value into the panel of the hB-3000C Brinell Hardness Tester. The system will automatically calculate the hardness value based on the preset formula.
Alternatively, an optional Brinell measuring system is available. This system captures the indentation image via a CCD sensor, and the hardness value is automatically measured and displayed by the computer.
6.Data Recording and Report Generation
After the test is completed, the operator can view detailed data on the touch screen, including hardness values, indentation diameters, and statistical information (maximum value, minimum value, average value, etc.). The data can be saved either in the internal memory of the tester or to an external USB storage device.
In addition, the tester software can automatically generate a Word report containing measurement data, statistical results and images, which can be printed or exported by the user.
III.Maintenance and Precautions
1.After the test is completed, release all test forces, select the shutdown option on the touch screen, and turn off the equipment power switch.
2.If the equipment is not to be used for an extended period, disconnect the power cable, remove components such as the indenter and weights, clean them thoroughly, and store them properly in designated locations to prevent damage or loss.
3.Perform regular cleaning and maintenance on the equipment. Inspect the wear condition of components including the indenter and weights, and replace any damaged or severely worn parts in a timely manner. Keep the equipment’s operating environment clean and dry to avoid damage caused by dust, moisture, or other contaminants.
4.Wear necessary protective gear (e.g., safety goggles and protective gloves) during operation to prevent personal injury from accidental incidents.
5.Operate the equipment in strict accordance with the operating specifications. Do not arbitrarily modify the equipment’s parameter settings or operating procedures, so as to ensure the accuracy and reliability of test results.
6.In case of equipment malfunction or abnormal conditions, stop operation immediately and cut off the power supply, then contact professional maintenance personnel for inspection and repair.
Post time: Jan-16-2026
