Hardness Testing

Hardness testing provides a fast, reliable indication of material strength, heat‑treatment condition, and suitability for service. At Charlton Metal Testing, we carry out both portable hardness testing and bench‑mounted hardness testing, allowing us to assess everything from large in‑situ components to small samples requiring controlled, laboratory‑grade accuracy. Our technicians work confidently across Rockwell, Vickers, and Brinell scales, selecting the appropriate method based on material type, geometry, and client requirements.

We support fabrication shops, construction projects, shutdowns, and in‑service inspection programmes across the UK and internationally. Whether confirming the heat‑treatment condition of welds, verifying parent material properties, or assessing components during maintenance, we deliver clear, traceable hardness values with straightforward reporting. Our combined portable and bench capabilities ensure we can provide accurate results both on site and in controlled workshop environments.

Why hardness testing?

• Accurate assessment of material strength, hardness, and heat‑treatment condition
• Rockwell, Vickers, and Brinell testing available to suit a wide range of materials
• Portable and bench‑mounted equipment, covering both field and workshop requirements
• Ideal for welds, parent materials, and in‑service components
• Useful for verifying PWHT effectiveness and identifying potential hardness‑related issues
• Immediate results, supporting fast decision‑making during fabrication or shutdowns
• Traceable readings aligned with recognised hardness scales and standards