Automated Hardness Testing
**Clemex CMT hardness testing solutions produce repeatable and reproducible results. **
The auto-focus for obtaining sharp images and the built-in validation function assure furthermore accurate results. Add some image analysis modules to the CMT software and turn your hardness tester into a microscope!
Type of analysis
Our automated hardness systems are designed to generate test results according to the following most recognized standards.
| ASTM E384 | Standard Test Method for Microindentation Hardness of Materials |
|---|---|
| ASTM E92 | Standard Test Methods for Vickers Hardness and Knoop Hardness of Metallic Materials |
| ASTM E10 | Standard Test Method for Brinell Hardness of Metallic Materials |
| ASTM E140 | Standard Hardness Conversion Tables for Metals Relationship Among Brinell Hardness, Vickers Hardness, Rockwell Hardness, Superficial Hardness, Knoop Hardness, and Scleroscope Hardness |
| ISO 4545 | Metallic materials – Knoop hardness test |
| ISO 6506 | Metallic materials – Brinell hardness test |
| ISO 6507 | Metallic materials – Vickers hardness test |
| ISO 18265 | Metallic materials – Conversion of hardness values to equivalent values in other hardness scales and estimation of tensile strength |
Key features
Clemex CMT hardness testing software
Automated focus
Obtain sharp images thanks to automated focus and fast image optimization, ensuring reproducible results.
Automatic shading corrector
Ensures even illumination for images captured using the system’s camera.
Powerful detection
Even the most difficult indentations are measured automatically. The powerful detection precisely measures on e.g. roughly polished surfaces or etched surfaces.
Scan of full sample
Obtain a detailed map of the entire sample. Navigate around the whole sample and view micro-structural changes, heat-affected and heat-treated zones.
Precise positioning
Position indents at even distances from each other or at precise distances from the edge of the sample using the Reference Circle tool.
Save and reload patterns
Create multiple patterns easily according to your test requirements (e.g. straight traverses or a matrix). Once a pattern has been created, you can save it and reuse it later to execute another analysis.
Case depth
Create hardness traverses automatically using a preview of the sample background, a T-bar tool for a perpendicular alignment of the test points with the sample surface, and options for spacing and staggering indents.
3D hardness mapping
With the hardness mapping functionality you can automatically generate a 3D map of the full surface of the sample – showing colors per hardness range from up to 32.000 indentations.
Reliable results
Our built-in validation function uses invariant dimensional calibration for increased accuracy. Indent and measure a certified test block automatically at specified intervals.
Hardware
Choose your hardness tester
Combine the Clemex CMT hardness testing software with one of our hardness testers. You can choose either a single or dual indenter option – depending on your testing requirements. These field proven systems produce accurate and repeatable results and are fully ASTM and ISO compliant.
How to specify your hardness testing system
Depending on your requirements, we will help you select the right hardness tester, objectives, indenters, a motorized stage, and a high-resolution camera. We ensure a seamless integration of all components.
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Analysis of your needs by a technical representative
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Configuration, fine-tuning, and calibration
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On-site installation and training of your team
Increase productivity in a high throughput lab using a very simple workflow. The operator follows a 3-step procedure to obtain repeatable results:
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Position a sample on the stage
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Start an analysis on the sample
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Review data and export results
Frequently asked questions
What is Clemex CMT?
Clemex CMT is a high-definition, fully automated microhardness testing system. It is designed to perform hardness tests according to international standards like ASTM E384 and EN ISO 6507, providing accurate, reproducible, and traceable results.
How does the system increase laboratory productivity?
The system features auto-focusing, automatic measuring, and automated reporting. These capabilities allow the Clemex CMT to function unattended for hours, significantly increasing throughput and freeing up operators for other tasks.
Can the Clemex CMT do more than just hardness testing?
Yes. One of its unique features is that it can act as a versatile image analysis system. It can be bundled with Clemex Vision, allowing you to analyze phases, layer thickness, grain size, and particle size without needing a separate device.
How does the system ensure accurate indent positioning?
Clemex CMT provides a "macroview" of the entire sample. Combined with specialized annotation tools, this allows operators to position indents precisely where they are required, even on complex parts or heat-affected zones.
Is the measurement process objective?
Absolutely. By using a high-definition camera and automated measurement algorithms, the system minimizes the subjectivity typically associated with human intervention. This leads to unparalleled precision and perfectly reproducible results.
Can I save and reuse testing patterns?
Yes. The "Save and Reload Traverses" feature allows you to save specific testing patterns. This is extremely useful for repetitive analysis of similar samples, as you can simply reload the pattern to duplicate the analysis on a new specimen.
Does the system support hardness scale conversions?
Yes. While native measurements are in HV (Vickers) or HK (Knoop), the system includes multiple conversion tables for HRA, HRB, and HRC scales, all in compliance with ASTM E-140.
How are the results reported?
Reports are generated automatically. The system can produce comprehensive web reports that combine hardness testing data with other metallurgical assessments, such as grain size or nodularity, in a professional layout.