Fully Automatic Scratch Hardness Tester

The Fully Automatic Scratch Hardness Tester is designed to evaluate the scratch resistance of single-layer or multi-layer coatings on insulated coated panels. By applying a spherical steel stylus under a controlled load, the instrument determines the maximum load at which the coating is either penetrated or remains intact, providing a precise assessment of coating scratch resistance. The fully automatic operation ensures repeatable, reliable results for laboratory testing, quality control, and production monitoring.

Application

Primary applications:

Evaluation of scratch resistance on insulated single-layer or composite coated panels

Determination of coating durability under mechanical contact

Quality control and compliance testing of painted surfaces

Typical tested products:

Automotive coated panels

Architectural coated metals

Electronic device enclosures with painted or protective coatings

Industrial color-coated steel or aluminum panels

Standards

(1) ISO 1518 – Paints and Varnishes – Determination of Scratch Resistance

(2) BS 3900 – Paints Testing Methods (UK Standard Series)

(3) ASTM D5178 – Test Method for Scratch Resistance of Coatings Using a Linear Scratch Device

(4) ASTM D2197 – Test Method for Resistance of Organic Coatings to Scratching

Parameters

Features

Panel made of special aluminum with metallic buttons, durable and responsive.

Touchscreen interface for intuitive, easy operation.

Dedicated sample clamps for direct and stable positioning.

Conductive substrate indicates whether the coating is penetrated, with an alarm function for penetration detection.

Multilingual interface (Chinese/English) with intelligent control.

Precision guide rails used for core transmission mechanism for accurate movement.

Electrostatic spray finish for durable surface protection.

Integrated horizontal level detection ensures accurate positioning.

Desktop design with stable operation and low noise.

Accessories

(1) Spherical steel stylus (replaceable)

(2) Sample clamps and fixture set

(3) Calibration and load verification kit

(4) User manual and operation guide

Test Procedures

Sample Installation

Place the coated panel in the sample clamps on the workstation. Ensure proper alignment and level using the built-in horizontal detection system.

Parameter Setup

Set the test load, number of cycles, and stylus path on the touchscreen interface.

Test Execution

Start the automatic test sequence.

The stylus applies a controlled load to the sample, moving along the programmed path to test scratch resistance.

The system automatically detects penetration and triggers an alarm if the coating is breached.

Result Recording

The maximum load at which the coating remains intact is recorded.

Data can be exported or analyzed for quality control and compliance assessment.

Maintenance Information

Clean stylus and sample area after each test to remove debris.

Check stylus tip and replace if worn to maintain accuracy.

Ensure touch interface and control system are functioning correctly.

Verify machine level and alignment periodically.

Inspect guide rails and moving parts for smooth operation.

FAQ

1. What is the core advantage of this product?

It provides fully automatic, repeatable, and precise scratch hardness testing with real-time penetration detection.

2. Are the test results reliable?

Yes. The combination of controlled load, precision guide rails, and automatic detection ensures highly reliable and reproducible results.

3. Which international/industry standards does it comply with?

ISO 1518. BS 3900. ASTM D5178. ASTM D2197.

4. Why is this product important?

It evaluates the mechanical durability of coatings, preventing product failures and ensuring compliance with industrial quality standards.

5. Which fields is this product suitable for?

Automotive coating testing

Architectural and industrial coating quality control

Electronics and appliance enclosures

Laboratory research and material development