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What do HB, HV, HRA, and HRC mean in cemented carbide?
time：
2025-07-15 08:37
source：
Lizhou
In cemented carbide materials, during use, you often encounter HB what is it, HV what is it, HRA how much is it, HRC how much is it ~ So today, let's explain in detail what these models represent.
What is Brinell Hardness ( HB )?
Brinell hardness is a method of measuring material hardness through the indentation method . It reflects the material's ability to resist indentation, and is mainly suitable for softer metals 。
HB What are the applicable ranges for Brinell Hardness:
Commonly used for: cast iron, copper, aluminum, low carbon steel, aluminum alloys and other soft metals
Not suitable for: cemented carbides, ceramics and other high-hardness materials
Advantages: wide measurement range, stable results
Disadvantages: large indentation, not suitable for precision parts or materials with very high surface hardness
What is Vickers Hardness ( HV )?
Vickers hardness uses a pyramidal diamond indenter to indent the material surface under standard load, and then calculate the hardness value based on the indentation's diagonal length . It is suitable for materials ranging from very soft to very hard.
Typical HV range in cemented carbide:
Commonly used for: cemented carbide, quenched steel, copper, aluminum
Advantages: high precision, wide application, minimal damage
What is HRA (Rockwell Hardness A )?
HRA is a measurement standard within Rockwell hardness, specifically used for high-hardness materials such as cemented carbide (e.g., tungsten steel), thin steel sheets, and hard coatings . It is calculated by applying a specific load to the material, using a diamond cone indenter to indent the material surface, and measuring the depth of the indentation to calculate the hardness value.
HRA numerical range explanation:
Material Type | HRA Hardness Range | HRA90+ indicates a very hard material, commonly found in high-strength turning inserts or wear-resistant parts |
cemented carbide | 85-94HRA | |
Ceramic inserts | 88-95HRA | |
Common tool steel | 70-85HRA |
What is HRC (Rockwell C Hardness)?
HRC is a method of representing material hardness by measuring indentation depth . It belongs to a Rockwell hardness scale ( Scale C ), mainly used for testing high-hardness metal materials , especially steel that has been quenched and treated.
HRC typical numerical reference:
Material Type | Common HRC Hardness | Cemented carbide (tungsten carbide) is too hard to be measured with HRC , otherwise the diamond indenter will be damaged. When using cemented carbide, it is recommended to use HRA or HV |
Annealed steel | 10-20HRC | |
Medium carbon steel (quenched and tempered) | 30-45HRC | |
Quenched steel, tool steel | 55-65HRC | |
High-speed steel | 60-67HRC | |
Cemented carbide (not applicable) | Not recommended |
HRC suitable for medium-to-high hardness metals like quenched steel and tool steel, but not for cemented carbide materials. For measuring cemented carbide, please prioritize using HRA or HV 。
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