Electric pencil hardness tester

The Electric Pencil Hardness Tester is designed to determine the surface hardness of coating layers applied to finished products by means of a standardized pencil scratch method. The instrument provides stable loading, constant angle, and uniform motion, ensuring accurate and repeatable hardness evaluation of painted, sprayed, or coated surfaces. It is widely used for quality control, product inspection, and coating performance assessment in electronics and appliance industries.

Application

(1) Surface hardness testing of spray coatings on consumer electronics housings (mobile phone shells, laptop computer shells)

(2) Hardness evaluation of coated plastic and metal parts used in home appliances (TV frames, air conditioner panels, washing machine panels)

(3) Quality control testing of decorative and protective coatings in manufacturing processes

(4) Comparative testing of different coating formulations and curing conditions

(5) Inspection of finished products for coating consistency and scratch resistance

Standards

(1) GB/T 6739-2022 — Paints and varnishes — Determination of film hardness by pencil test

(2) ISO 15184 — Paints and varnishes — Determination of film hardness by pencil test

(3) ASTM D3363 — Standard Test Method for Film Hardness by Pencil Test

Features

(1) Electric drive system ensures stable and uniform test platform movement

(2) Fixed 45° test angle in accordance with international pencil hardness standards

(3) Adjustable test loads to meet different standard requirements

(4) Simple structure and easy operation suitable for routine laboratory testing

(5) Good repeatability and reduced operator influence compared with manual testing

Parameters

Accessories

(1) Pencil set from 6B to 6H, total 13 grades

(2) Standard load weight set

Test Procedures

(1) Prepare the coating specimen and ensure the surface is clean and fully cured

(2) Fix the specimen securely on the test platform

(3) Select the appropriate pencil grade and install it in the pencil holder

(4) Set the test load and ensure the pencil is positioned at a 45° angle

(5) Start the tester to move the platform at the specified speed over the set travel distance

(6) Inspect the coating surface for scratches or coating damage and record the highest pencil grade that does not cause failure

Maintenance Information

(1) Clean the test platform and pencil holder regularly to prevent contamination

(2) Check the pencil holder alignment and test angle periodically

(3) Inspect electrical components and moving parts for normal operation

(4) Store the instrument in a dry, dust-free environment when not in use.