Convert between all major hardness scales used in engineering — Rockwell C (HRC), Vickers (HV), Brinell (HBW), Rockwell B (HRB), and Rockwell A (HRA) — and obtain an approximate ultimate tensile strength (UTS) estimate for steels. Conversions are based on ASTM E140-12b Standard Hardness Conversion Tables for Metals.
Steel Hardness Conversion Calculator
Conversions are empirical approximations per ASTM E140-12b — valid for wrought carbon and alloy steels only.
Not valid for: cast iron, non-ferrous alloys, coatings, or case-hardened surfaces (microhardness required).
UTS estimate: σ_UTS (MPa) ≈ 3.45 × HBW (valid for steels HBW 100–400)
Hardness Scale Application Ranges
| Scale | Valid Range | Best Used For | Load |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vickers (HV) | HV 1 – 2000+ | All metals, thin coatings, case depth profiles | 1g – 100 kgf |
| Brinell (HBW) | HBW 60 – 739 | Castings, forgings, rough surfaces (large indent) | 187.5–3000 kgf |
| Rockwell C (HRC) | HRC 20 – 67 | Through-hardened steels, tool steels, case hardened | 150 kgf |
| Rockwell B (HRB) | HRB 0 – 100 | Soft steels, Al alloys, brass, annealed metals | 100 kgf |
| Knoop (HK) | HK 100 – 1000 | Thin coatings, brittle materials, elongated indents | 1–1000 gf |
References
- ASTM E140-12b Standard Hardness Conversion Tables for Metals Relationship Among Brinell Hardness, Vickers Hardness, Rockwell Hardness, Superficial Hardness, Knoop Hardness, Scleroscope Hardness, and Leeb Hardness.
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