ASTM E140: Hardness Conversion Tables for Metals

Introduction to ASTM E140

ASTM E140 is a critical standard developed by ASTM International, a globally recognized leader in developing and delivering voluntary consensus standards. This standard specifically addresses the classification and conversion of metals and alloys, ensuring that materials meet the required specifications for various industrial applications.

Importance of ASTM Standards in Metals and Alloys

ASTM standards play a vital role in the metals and alloys industry by providing a common framework for quality, safety, and efficiency. These standards facilitate communication between manufacturers, suppliers, and consumers, ensuring that materials are consistent and reliable.

Hardness Conversion Tables for Metals

ASTM E140 provides standards for converting hardness values of metals and alloys between different hardness testing scales. These conversions are important for engineers, manufacturers, and material scientists to compare material hardness across various systems.

Here are some hardness conversion tables based on ASTM E140, which help in converting values between the most commonly used scales.

Table 1: Brinell (BHN) to Other Scales

For more information, please check Stanford Advanced Materials (SAM).

Table 2: Rockwell C (HRC) to Other Scales

Table 3: Vickers (HV) to Other Scales

Table 4: Knoop (HK) to Other Scales

Table 5: Shore A to Other Scales

Conversion Guidelines

• Brinell Hardness Number (BHN) measures the material's resistance to indentation, commonly used for large or irregularly shaped samples.
• Rockwell Hardness: Rockwell B is used for softer materials, while Rockwell C is for harder materials.
• Vickers (HV) and Knoop (HK) hardness values are often used for small or thin materials and are excellent for measuring microhardness.
• Shore A: Measures the hardness of soft rubbers and plastics, providing an estimate of the material’s resistance to indentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is ASTM E140?
ASTM E140 is a standard developed by ASTM International that outlines the classification and conversion processes for metals and alloys, ensuring quality and consistency.

Why are ASTM standards important in the metals industry?
They provide a common framework for quality assurance, safety, and efficiency, facilitating communication and consistency across global markets.

Which industries rely on ASTM E140 standards?
Industries such as automotive, aerospace, construction, and manufacturing utilize ASTM E140 standards to ensure their metal and alloy materials meet required specifications.

Can ASTM E140 be applied to all types of metals and alloys?
Yes, ASTM E140 provides guidelines applicable to a wide range of metals and alloys, including iron, aluminum, steel, titanium, and more.

How do advancements in technology impact ASTM E140 standards?
Technological advancements like additive manufacturing and precision casting enhance the conversion processes, allowing ASTM E140 standards to accommodate more complex and efficient material transformations.