Applied Technical Services (ATS) is a trusted provider of UCI hardness testing services. Ultrasonic hardness tests are critical to the manufacturing and operational processes of many industries. Whether a client needs us to inspect an incoming product onsite or inspect the integrity of an in-service component, our UCI hardness testing can measure the hardness of a wide range of metal materials.
What is UCI Hardness Testing?
Ultrasonic Contact Impedance (UCI) hardness testing measures the change in frequency of a vibrating rod as a Vickers diamond penetrates the surface under a controlled load to determine a material’s hardness. The frequency shift is indicative of a material’s hardness, allowing the instrument to report hardness values on the Vickers (HV) scale. Ultrasonic hardness testing is well-suited for evaluating finished components, and areas where traditional bench‑top hardness testing is impractical. The process is minimally destructive, offering rapid and repeatable measurements that aid the following processes:
- Quality control
- Weld evaluation
- Heat‑treatment verification
- In‑service inspection
About Our UCI Hardness Testing Services
Our metallurgy laboratory provides UCI hardness testing as part of our comprehensive onsite and in‑lab hardness testing services. Our technicians use calibrated, industry‑standard UCI instruments to deliver accurate and traceable hardness measurements that align with industry standards and ASTM and ISO requirements. Our services are adept at assessing components with complex geometries, sensitive surfaces, and equipment located in elevated or confined spaces.
The Benefits of Ultrasonic Hardness Tests
Ultrasonic hardness tests offer several distinct advantages over other portable hardness testing methods. Unlike Leeb (rebound) testing, which requires substantial mass and thickness for reliable accuracy, UCI performs well on lightweight and thinner components. Its indentation is significantly smaller than traditional Vickers or Brinell impressions, preserving surface integrity and making it ideal for finished or cosmetic surfaces. These benefits make UCI a preferred choice for clients seeking a precise, efficient, and minimally invasive hardness testing solution that can be deployed directly at the point of use.
Contact Us
Call +1 (888)-287-5227 or submit a web request form to learn more about our ultrasonic hardness testing services and additional hardness testing capabilities.
