RFQ_127664 - Replacement Rockwell Hardness Machine

The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) is the UK's National Measurement Institute and is a world-leading centre of excellence in developing and applying the most accurate measurement standards, science, and technology available.

The requirement is for the measurement of standard Rockwell hardnesses of materials (scales A, C and superficial N at a minimum) in order to characterise material and coating properties as part of our research. As such, it is critical that the machine can be calibrated in accordance with current international standards, such that the data obtained can be robustly examined. The machine must also have reasonably sized testing area, such as to allow medium-sized parts to be tested in an as-received condition, with a minimum stage size of 100 x 100 mm.

A highly desirable option would be the ability to run both standard tests and non-standard tests (e.g. with different loads), and to obtain additional data such as load-displacement data that can be exported to enable us to develop new characterisation techniques. Additional capabilities such as the capacity to run Brinell tests, or to run an automated array of tests would also be a beneficial option.