1. Arrange the tested materials from the softest material to the hardest material.

Based on the results of Rockwell hardness test, material steel had the highest value of hardness with the
value ( ) kg/mm2 compared to the copper and aluminium. Copper followed next with the value of
hardness is ( ) kg/mm2 . Copper has a higher value of hardness than aluminium due to the compositition
of carbon in the copper more than aliminium. Lastly, aluminium followed after copper with the hardness
value obtained was ( ) kg/mm2 . So, arrangement the tested material in Rockwell hardness test from the
softest material to the hardest material is we start from aluminium as a softest material, then followed
the copper and the hardest material is steel.

2. Give TWO (2) advantages and TWO (2) disadvantages of using Rockwell hardness
testing method.

The advantage of using Rockwell hardness testing method is this test was the common test to the
measure hardness. It is also due to how easy it is to handle the machine. The Rockwell hardness test
machine gives a rapid and direct result.

The disadvantages of using Rockwell hardness testing method material surface must be exactly filled, It
must be not convex. Even a slight convexity results in the errors in the readings. It is also the material of
whose hardness is to be determined must not be impure. Then, It is not always the most accurate
hardness testing method.

3. What is the difference between Rockwell and superficial Rockwell test?

Rockwell Test measures the hardness of the material. There are different scales for ferrous metals,
nonferrous metals, and plastics. Common Rockwell hardness scales include HRB and HRC for metals and
HRM and HRR for polymers.

Superficial Rockwell Test is a more surface sensitive hardness measurement scale. This technique is
useful for samples with hardness gradients at the surface, to test small areas, and for thin
samples. Superficial Rockwell hardness scales are N and T for metals and W, X, and Y for nonmetallic
materials and coatings.

4. Based on enginering standpoint, why hardness property is important ?

Hardness is the property of a material that enables it to resist plastic deformation, penetration,
indentation, and scratching. Therefore, hardness is important from an engineering standpoint because
resistance to wear by either friction or erosion by steam, oil, and water generally increases
with hardness.

A hardness measurement confirms that material composition, heat treatment, surface conditions, and
process specification.