Electric Pencil Hardness Tester
Category：Scratch Tester
Introduction
The Electric Pencil Hardness Tester is designed to determine the surface hardness of coating layers applied to finished products by means of a standardized pencil scratch method. The instrument provides stable loading, constant angle, and uniform motion, ensuring accurate and repeatable hardness evaluation of painted, sprayed, or coated surfaces. It is widely used for quality control, product inspection, and coating performance assessment in electronics and appliance industries.
Application
(1) Surface hardness testing of spray coatings on consumer electronics housings (mobile phone shells, laptop computer shells)
(2) Hardness evaluation of coated plastic and metal parts used in home appliances (TV frames, air conditioner panels, washing machine panels)
(3) Quality control testing of decorative and protective coatings in manufacturing processes
(4) Comparative testing of different coating formulations and curing conditions
(5) Inspection of finished products for coating consistency and scratch resistance
Standards
(1) GB/T 6739-2022 — Paints and varnishes — Determination of film hardness by pencil test
(2) ISO 15184 — Paints and varnishes — Determination of film hardness by pencil test
(3) ASTM D3363 — Standard Test Method for Film Hardness by Pencil Test
Parameters
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Test angle | 45° |
| Test load | 500 g / 750 g / 1000 g, adjustable |
| Platform moving speed | Adjustable |
| Travel distance | 40 mm |
| Test platform size | Approx. 120 × 170 mm |
| Sample fixation | Fixed platform |
| Power supply | AC 220 V, 50 Hz |
Features
(1) Electric drive system ensures stable and uniform test platform movement
(2) Fixed 45° test angle in accordance with international pencil hardness standards
(3) Adjustable test loads to meet different standard requirements
(4) Simple structure and easy operation suitable for routine laboratory testing
(5) Good repeatability and reduced operator influence compared with manual testing
Accessories
(1) Pencil set from 6B to 6H, total 13 grades
(2) Standard load weight set
Maintenance Information
(1) Clean the test platform and pencil holder regularly to prevent contamination
(2) Check the pencil holder alignment and test angle periodically
(3) Inspect electrical components and moving parts for normal operation
(4) Store the instrument in a dry, dust-free environment when not in use.
FAQ
1. What is the primary purpose of this tester?
It measures the hardness of coatings, paints, and surface finishes by automating the pencil hardness test, providing consistent and repeatable results.
2. Which materials can be tested using this device?
The tester is suitable for painted surfaces, varnishes, electroplated coatings, and other protective or decorative surface finishes.
3. How does the tester operate?
It automatically applies pencils of varying hardness to the surface under controlled pressure and angle, determining the highest hardness grade that does not damage the coating.
4. Which standards does this tester comply with?
It supports international standards for pencil hardness testing, including ASTM D3363. ISO 15184. and GB/T 6739.
5. Who typically uses this equipment?
Paint and coating manufacturers, quality control laboratories, and R&D teams use it to evaluate surface hardness, ensure product consistency, and optimize coating formulations.
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