QATM 60 A/A+ EVO, Micro Hardness Tester

Unlimited options

• Hardness testing module with a force range of 0.25 g to 62.5 kg as standard – including ASTM & DAkkS-certified Vickers test diamond
• 3 versions – from semi-automatic application (M) to full automation (A/A+)
• Solidly-built machine – ‘Made in Austria’
• Variably-structured, vibration-reducing cast body with frame in anodized aluminum.
• Fully automated test cycle: Electronic force appplication and closed-loop control

Vertical concept with 2 Z-axes

There are decisive benefits in distributing vertical movement across 2 axes. Via the first Z-axis there is dynamic motion control, allowing the indenter to be positioned towards the test surface quickly and conveniently at up to 30mm/s. The additional second Z-axis in the QATM system offers a high-resolution positioning system for greater precision in force application and focusing.

Automated hardness testing and microscopy

It is now possible to execute all required quality assurance tasks with a previously unattained degree of convenience and time efficiency. The Brinell / Knoop / Vickers hardness testers can work through hundreds – even thousands – of test and analytical points in a fully automated, unmanned setting. The analytical functions have also been integrated in order to enable the operator working in a manual mode to analyze material properties with maximum efficiency, and to deliver the requested results smoothly and simply.

Revolutionary optic system

The QATM-developed, in-house manufactured lens system sets new standards. In addition to providing crystal clear image quality for micro hardness testing, Koehler illumination uses white LED light and motor-operated aperture shuttering to produce ideal contrast, even for high magnification images. The color-corrected high-quality lens series is used for structural analysis. There are also two camera systems to choose from.

Experienced metallurgists agree the image quality provided by the Vickers / Knoop / Brinell hardness tester Qness 60 EVO is comparable in all aspects with that of established sophisticated microscopes. The up-to-date concept and new lenses in the optic system enable the device to completely meet even the strictest physical ‘test system definition’ requirements in compliance with DIN EN ISO6507-1/2:2018.

8-Position tool changer

Up to 8 different test diamonds or lenses can be mounted to the ultra-modern turret of the Vickers / Knoop / Brinell hardness tester. The compact structure is angled at 20° to guarantee excellent test room visibility.

Highlight: The newly developed hardness testing modules serve as modular indenter holders enabling plug-and-play retrofitting of Brinell and Knoop test equipment at any time after delivery.

Interactive software for all versions

Qpix Control2 is pioneering the ultra-modern software operation of hardness testing equipment and has been expanded to include intelligent measurement tools for lengths and angles. It’s ideal for establishing templates, and now also for the testing of welds (A/A+ models). In addition, the optional INSPECT modules can be seamlessly integrated into the overall operating infrastructure:

• Phase analysis
• Layer thickness measurement
• Grain size evaluation

Exact positioning and a large test space

All 3 axes are equipped with the direct, optical path measuring system as standard. The axes and turret can be positioned to an accuracy of 1.5 μm, so even thin layers, or special testing or analytical coordinates, can be repeatedly and accurately approached.

Different test heights

The unique construction of the highly-dynamic tool changer turret allows the positioning of test pieces at various heights within the test area. Innovative CAS technology protects the unit from collisions.

Optimized performance and silenced design

Optimized testing parameters and shorter intervals for serial autofocus, brightness regulation and image analysis, facilitate unbeatable cycle times during everyday operation with the new EVO Brinell / Knoop / Vickers hardness testers; and it’s even faster than the previous model. A further benefit of the new machine concept is the emphasis on reduced noise emissions in operation and motion, making it particularly suitable for laboratory work.

IPC Technology / Rotatable indenter

IPC – ‘Indenter Parallel to Contour’ (optional)
The operator can select the route and points for the Knoop indenter along each contour, either manually, via the software setting, or fully automatically. The compact indenter unit with a built-in rotation drive facilitates fully automated hardness testing in layers or along the edge of the workpiece.

Embedded samples

The secure clamping of samples thanks to a redesigned holder with a built-in clamping force limiter, simplifies sample centering and positioning. A plate with a ball-joint even clamps specimen that cannot be held flat to prevent tilting or sliding during analysis. Available with 1, 4 or 8 holding positions and adapter rings for a large range of metric and imperial sample diameters.

Tooth flank testing

The time-consuming creation of test points, especially with tooth flank testing, is minimized by means of pre-defined templates. The A+ version enables the entire normed procedure between HV30 and HV1 to be done by one single device.

Template function

• Ideal for repeated tests / components
• Alignment of ‘test point mappings’ directly on the work piece with reference lines and bench marks
• Test point and analysis patterns without ‘fixed stop’ or sample holder
• The sample image can be used in a clearly-structured test report

Weld sample testing and analysis

Serial provision of ‘Advanced Welding’ functions facilitates the simple, norm-compliant (e.g. EN ISO 9015 & EN ISO 22826) integration of test mapping for Brinell / Knoop / Vickers hardness testing. Pre-defined patterns can be simply adapted to each respective test piece via interactive functions. If required, Qpix INSPECT modules can also provide a simultaneous material-graphics analysis of the weld seam.

Inspect phase analysis

• Automatic image object dimensioning
• Evaluation of phase fractions according to ISO 9042 and ASTM E562
• Provides analytics results as percentage proportions of a surface or as nominal surface values as tables or diagrams

Inspect layer thickness measurement

• Determination of layer thickness according to DIN EN ISO 1463
• Semi-automated gauging of horizontal, vertical and radial layers.
• Provision of layer thickness as statistical values for lengths as tables or diagrams.

Inspect particle size determination

• Particle size determined according to DIN EN ISO 643 and ASTM E112 via linear or circular section method
• Results of the analysis provided as tables or diagrams
• Documentation of statistical characteristics of particle size and segment lengths cutting through the particles

Portal version

The hardness tester Qness 60 A+ EVO as a portal solution that offers unique movement flexibility, opening up new possibilities in micro and low load hardness testing.

Product Advantages

• Test table dimensions/traverse path 500 x 500 x 300 mm
• Front-loading position – ideal for heavy test pieces loaded by cranes
• Accommodates up to 9 x 8-piece holders at once (72 pieces total) and safety housing with a CE light grid
• Unrestricted operational convenience

Lab tables

Configure and optimize your lab workplace with solutions from the comprehensive QATM lab furniture range.

Highlight: The extremely resilient QATM work table with electrically-driven height adjustment is ergonomically adapted for use with the according hardness tester as well as up to 2 monitors and offers built-in cable management.

Even larger work room

The optional large slide doubles the test table surface area to 300 x 120 mm. If required, the test height can also be extended from 145 mm to 260 mm.

Premium hardness test blocks

Premium quality in comprehensive variety. Independent DAkkS (ISO/IEC 17025) calibration according to DIN EN ISO and ASTM including software for periodic norm-compliant tests.