Hardness Tester | Leeb and Webster Hardness Testing for Metals
How to Choose a Hardness Tester: Start with the Material, Part Size, and Required Hardness Scale
For on-site inspection of machined metal parts, molds, and equipment, consider LS253 Leeb hardness tester with interchangeable probes; for quick batch checks of aluminum profiles, sheets, and tubes, compare LS255 Webster hardness tester. In addition to material and hardness range, confirm part thickness, weight, test-point location, and working clearance.
For customer acceptance, first confirm the required test method, hardness scale, and acceptance limits. Verify any converted value against the material and the conditions for which the conversion applies.
Compare models by material and use
LS253 | Multi-probe Leeb hardness tester
For steel, cast iron, and other supported metals; suitable for on-site hardness checks of machined parts, molds, and larger workpieces. The separate display unit and impact device support D, DC, DL, or C probes selected for the test point.
Type D is for general metal parts; DC can be considered for restricted spaces; DL for narrow grooves and hole bottoms; and C for some smaller or thinner parts. Each probe has workpiece weight, thickness, and support limitations; a smaller probe does not make every thin part measurable.
Batch acceptance decisions and statistics are available. Confirm data storage, phone connectivity, and optional printing according to requirements.
LS255 | Webster hardness tester
For quick hardness checks on compatible materials such as aluminum alloys, brass, pure copper, and mild steel; commonly used for batch comparison of profiles, sheets, and tubes. Its clamp-style design, digital display, and reading hold support part-by-part field inspection.
The manufacturer specifies a suitable test-piece thickness of 0.6–8 mm and tube inner diameter greater than 10 mm. Confirm material, hardness range, whether the test point can be clamped, and proper indenter and support positioning.
Primarily measures Webster HWA; other hardness scales are converted values. If the customer specifies Rockwell, Vickers, or Brinell testing, first confirm whether converted results are acceptable.
Confirm test conditions for small, thin-wall, or curved parts
Leeb measurements are affected by workpiece weight, thickness, support, and surface condition. Small or thin-wall parts may need to be coupled to a stable support; for curved surfaces and small test points, confirm the support ring, probe contact, and impact clearance. Webster testing requires correct clamping; aluminum alone does not establish suitability.
Hardness scales can be converted, but the test methods are not the same
Leeb HL and Webster HWA use different measurement methods. Before converting to HRC, HV, or HB, confirm the material, valid range, and conversion basis. If the customer requires the original test method, check the acceptance specification before selecting equipment and reporting method.
Please provide these details before requesting a quotation
- Material type or grade, and whether it has been heat-treated.
- Part thickness, weight, dimensions, and a photo of the test location.
- Required hardness scale and test method, estimated hardness range, and acceptance limits.
- Whether this is field inspection or batch testing, plus data recording, export, and printing needs.
Fulcrum Technology can assist with selection, equipment demonstrations, and after-sales technical support. Confirm probe configuration, demonstration models, repair service, stock, and lead time for the specific model and requirements.