Applications of Knoop Testing
Because of the wide test force range, the KNOOP test can be used on almost any metallic material. The part size is only limited by the testing instrument's capacity. SINOWON micro hardness testers MHV-1000ZK and SMHV-1000ZK comes with max testing height at
Strengths
1. The elongated diamond indenter and low test forces allows testing very small parts or material features not capable if being tested any other way.
2. One scale covers the entire hardness range.
3. Test results a mainly test force independent over
4. A wide range of test forces to suit every application.
Weaknesses
1. The main drawback of the KNOOP test is the need to optically measure the indent size. This requires that the test point be highly polished to be able to see the indent well enough to make an accurate measurement.
2. Slow. Testing can take 30 seconds not counting the sample preparation time.