Leeb Hardness Tester — Portable Dynamic Hardness Testing Solution
A Leeb Hardness Tester is a portable device that measures the hardness of materials using the Leeb rebound method, also known as dynamic hardness testing. This technique involves impacting a test object with a defined force and then measuring the rebound velocity of the impact body. The ratio of rebound to impact velocity is used to determine the hardness of the material.
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Developed by Dietmar Leeb in 1975, this method has become widely accepted for its portability, ease of use, and fast testing capabilities. Leeb hardness testers are ideal for large, heavy, or installed components that cannot be moved to a lab for testing.
Applications of Leeb Hardness Testers
Metal Manufacturing
Testing raw materials, welds, and heat-treated parts
Energy Sector
Testing pipelines, turbines, valves
Aerospace
Quality control of aircraft components
Automotive
Testing crankshafts, engines, gear shafts
Construction
Steel structures, beams, and supports
Shipbuilding
Hull components, engine parts
Maintenance & QA
Hardness verification during routine inspection
Die & Mold Making
In-situ testing of dies and molds for consistency
Types of Impact Devices for Leeb Testers
| Impact Device | Application | Features |
|---|---|---|
| D | Standard, general-purpose | Most commonly used for general metal testing |
| DC | Miniature version of D | For narrow or hard-to-reach spaces |
| DL | Long, slim probe | Ideal for inner bores or grooves |
| G | High impact energy | Used on heavy castings and forgings |
| C | Low energy, small loads | For coatings, electroplated layers, soft metals |
| E | Special applications | Often customized for specific test needs |
Common Hardness Scales Supported
Leeb hardness testers often support conversion to a variety of international hardness scales:
HL (Leeb Hardness)
HB (Brinell)
HRC (Rockwell C)
HRB (Rockwell B)
HV (Vickers)
HS (Shore)
MPA or N/mm² (Strength)
Advantages of Using Leeb Hardness Testers
| Advantage | Description |
|---|---|
| Portability | Small size and rechargeable power make it ideal for field inspections |
| Speed and Efficiency | Instant measurement without complex setup |
| Multi-Scale Conversion | Auto conversion to multiple hardness values for comparison |
| Cost-Effective | Reduces the need for lab testing and saves time |
| Versatile | Suitable for metals, alloys, and even complex shapes |
| Data Storage and Transfer | Store thousands of readings and export via USB or Bluetooth |
| Multiple Probe Options | Enables testing in various orientations and part geometries |
| Compliance with Standards | ASTM A956, DIN 50156, GB/T standards supported |
Why Use a Leeb Hardness Tester?
Traditional hardness testers like Brinell or Rockwell require samples to be cut and tested in a lab environment. Leeb hardness testers eliminate that restriction and allow users to:
Perform on-site hardness testing
Test large or immobile workpieces
Get instant digital readings
Save time and reduce operational costs
Ensure product quality directly on the production floor or in the field
How a Leeb Hardness Tester Works
The working principle is based on energy loss during impact:
A spring-loaded impact body is released onto the test surface.
The device measures the velocity before and after impact.
The ratio of rebound velocity (Vr) to impact velocity (Vi) is calculated.
This ratio is converted into a Leeb hardness value (HL).
Leeb Hardness Formula:
HL = 1000 × (Vr / Vi)
This method is standardized under ASTM A956 and DIN 50156.
Key Features of Leeb Hardness Testers
✅ Portable and lightweight design
✅ Large LCD/LED display with backlight
✅ Multiple impact directions (360° testing)
✅ Auto-conversion to common hardness scales: HRC, HB, HV, HS, HRB, and more
✅ Data storage and USB/Bluetooth connectivity
✅ Battery-operated for field use
✅ Impact devices (D, DC, DL, G, C, E) for different applications
✅ Fast, non-destructive testing
✅ Calibration options for accuracy assurance
Choosing the Right Leeb Hardness Tester
When selecting a Leeb hardness tester, consider the following:
Material Type: Steel, aluminum, copper, etc.
Part Size and Shape: Flat, curved, cylindrical, etc.
Surface Condition: Polished or rough
Testing Environment: Factory, field, or lab
Data Output Needs: USB/Bluetooth, printer, PC software integration
Frequency of Use: Regular production or occasional maintenance
Standards & Compliance
Leeb hardness testers typically conform to:
ASTM A956 – Standard Test Method for Leeb Hardness
DIN 50156 – German standard for dynamic hardness
GB/T 17394 – Chinese national standard for Leeb hardness
CE/RoHS/FCC – Electrical safety and compliance marks
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is a Leeb hardness tester used for?
A Leeb hardness tester is used to quickly measure the hardness of metals and alloys on-site using a non-destructive rebound method.2. What does HL mean in Leeb hardness?
HL stands for Leeb Hardness, calculated as 1000 times the ratio of rebound velocity to impact velocity.3. Can Leeb hardness testers measure all metals?
Yes, they can test steel, aluminum, copper, brass, and more. Material settings in the device ensure accurate conversion to traditional hardness scales.4. How accurate are Leeb hardness testers?
Modern Leeb testers offer high accuracy, often within ±6 HL or ±0.5% depending on calibration and surface conditions.5. Is calibration necessary?
Yes. Regular calibration using certified test blocks is essential for maintaining measurement reliability.6. What surfaces are suitable for Leeb testing?
The surface should be smooth, clean, and flat. Rough or curved surfaces may require specialized probes.7. What is the difference between HL, HRC, and HV?
HL is the direct rebound value, while HRC (Rockwell) and HV (Vickers) are traditional lab-based hardness scales. Leeb testers can convert HL to these scales.8. Can it be used on small or thin parts?
Leeb testers require a minimum part weight and thickness. Parts <1 kg or <5 mm may need special support an alternative method.9. How long does it take to measure hardness?
A single test takes just a few seconds, making Leeb testers ideal for high-volume inspection.10. Do Leeb testers store data?
Yes, many models offer internal storage and USB or Bluetooth export for QA documentation and traceability.Why Global Clients Choose Us?
At NDTMachine, we are committed to providing high-quality thickness gauges that meet the demands of today’s industries. Our products are designed with a focus on accuracy, durability, and ease of use, ensuring that you can trust them for critical measurements. With years of experience in manufacturing NDT equipment, we have built a reputation for excellence and innovation.
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