ISO 4546

Introducing ISO 4546 – Industrial Physics

ISO 4546 is an international ISO standard that specifies how to carry out a knoop hardness test on metallic materials.  

When you need to know just how tough a sample is and how well it will resist penetration, knoop microhardness testing is a sensible choice. 

Within the ISO 4546 standard you’ll find guidance on the type of knoop hardness testing machine to use. It details the features that are required – such as the type of plunger or indenter – and advises on aspects such as how to service and check the machine.   

This ISO test specifies both a direct, and an indirect, microhardness testing method. It allows for test forces up to and including 9,807 N for indentations with long diagonals over 20 micrometers. 

What does ISO 4546 knoop testing involve?

Knoop hardness testing uses an elongated, rectangular shaped indenter. This is pushed into the surface of a sample to produce an indentation, which can then be measured.  

The ISO 4546 test is particularly useful for lighter loads and samples that need indentations that are close together. It’s important that your metal hardness testing samples are prepared carefully to ensure that your results are accurate. 

ISO 4546 testing devices  

So, how can Industrial Physics improve your ISO 4546 testing? 

United Testing Tru-Blue Micro VT 

A semi-automated microhardness testing system that will deliver accurate knoop hardness testing to ISO 4546 standards. Our state-of-the-art electronics and high-quality optical displays make running tests quick and easy.  

Your global test and measurement partner for ISO 4546