scope:

This standard discusses various testing procedures for determining the Rockwell apparent hardness (macroindentation hardness) of powder metallurgy products at all stages of manufacturing, from green compact to fully hardened condition. It does not include testing procedures for PF (forged) products or cemented carbides or sintered friction materials.

Other hardness tests such as HV5 or HV10 and HB may be used if agreed by the parties concerned. The Vickers method, unlike Rockwell hardness testing, requires the samples to be ground and polished prior to the hardness determination. The Rockwell tests do not require this, which makes them the preferred method for testing PM products. Brinell hardness testing is rarely used by the PM industry in the United States.

Hardness tests may be used as a qualification procedure for determining the quality of PM parts.

Determination of microindentation hardness and case depth shall be performed according to MPIF Standards 51 and 52 respectively.

This standard may involve hazardous materials, operations and equipment. This standard does not purport to address all of the potential safety problems associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and to determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.