The Brinell test implies pressing a 1, 2.5, 5 or 10 mm tungsten carbide ball into a sample material and measure the diameter of the impression left. The loads used vary from 1 kgf to 3000 kgf. The Brinell test is normally used for larger samples with a coarse or inhomogeneous grain structure, such as castings and forgings.
Applicable Standards:
-ASTM E10
-ISO 6506
-JIS Z 2243
The Brinell test was originally developed in the late 1800's by the Swedish engineer of the same name. He wanted to find a method to control the quality/hardness of steel, and for that purpose used a railway wheel bearing ball to press into the material, subsequently measuring the size of the mark. At that time the standard size of the bearing ball was 10 mm - and in 1900 the Brinell test was officially born...
The Brinell test is used for larger samples with a coarse or inhomogeneous grain structure, such as castings and forgings. The maximum hardness for Brinell is 650 HBW, in order not to deform the indenter.
Surface Preparation
Micro hardness test
Loads
HBW = Hardness Brinell Wolfram carbide
Wolfram carbide = tungsten carbide serves to underline that newer Brinell standards call for usage of tungsten carbide balls, as opposed to the (softer) steel balls previously used (HBS). Values will differ at higher hardnesses!
