MaTestLab > Test Standards > ASTM A956 Standard Test Method for Leeb Hardness Testing of Steel Products
Last updated 26th February 2025
ASTM A956 Standard Test Method for Leeb Hardness Testing of Steel Products
ASTM A956 is a globally recognized standard employed for assessing the hardness of steel products using the Leeb rebound method. It provides guidelines and procedures for utilizing portable hardness testers to measure the hardness of steel components quickly and non-destructively. The ASTM A956 standard ensures consistent and reliable hardness evaluation, which is essential in industries like manufacturing, construction, and quality control.
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A956 Introduction
ASTM A956: The concept of material hardness is subjective and varies based on test type and expectations. The Leeb hardness test, a dynamic/rebound method, relies on both the plastic and elastic properties of the material. The testing results reflect strength and are influenced by material heat treatment. It’s a superficial test, assessing only the surface contacted and offering no insight into subsurface material characteristics elsewhere.
ASTM A956Test Procedure
Specimen Selection
The specimen material for hardness testing, typically steel, is crucial. The impact body, with tungsten carbide, silicon nitride, or diamond tip, is propelled to strike the test surface at a specified velocity, ensuring accurate rebound measurements.
Test Setup and Execution
The test setup involves positioning the impact body 0.039 inches away from the test surface, measuring rebound velocities with a magnet, and causing electric voltages in the impact device’s coil. These voltages are proportional and calculated to determine the Leeb hardness value.
A956 Equipment and Sample Preparation
Specimen Details
The Leeb hardness test is suitable for steel, cast steel, and cast iron, with specimen thickness and weight being crucial factors. Minimum weights and sizes are provided, emphasizing support, and coupling for accurate hardness readings.
Specimen Dimensions
Hardness assessments require surface finish and preparation, removing coatings, paints, scale, and imperfections. Machined or grinding is recommended. Factors like magnetic fields, vibrations, and temperature variations can impact test outcomes.
A956 Test Resultsand Interpretation
ASTM A956 involves the Leeb hardness test and provides a numerical value representing a material’s resistance to deformation or localized pressure. The higher the Leeb hardness number, the harder the material. These results are useful for quality control, material selection, and assessing heat treatment effects on steel products. However, they do not provide insights into the material’s internal or subsurface properties. Factors like specimen preparation, surface condition, temperature, vibrations, and magnetic fields can affect the accuracy and reliability of the obtained hardness values.
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Tests Related to A956
Important tests relevant to ASTM A956 include ASTM E177 Practice for Use of the Terms Precision and Bias in ASTM Test Methods and ASTM E691 Practice for Conducting an Interlaboratory Study to Determine the Precision of a Test Method.
Use of A956 in Various Industries
The standard is widely applied in constructing, automotive, and aerospace industries and is relevant in terms of determining material specifications, or it is a test taken directly in the field on-site to examine the hardness value of metal without disassembling machinery or parts.
Materials Commonly Tested with A956
Standard refers to testing steel and ferrous alloy testing. It can also be applied to cast iron as well as alloyed steels. It is particularly suited for such large, thick material specimens as steel beams, heavy castings or forged parts in construction and manufacturing applications wherein hardness measurements can be made without losing properties.
Common Challenges and Troubleshooting in A956 Testing
Surface and other conditions, incorrect positioning of the impact device, and the technique of operators affect the outcome of tests. Surface roughness, coatings, and misalignment can affect results and require surface preparation; technique variations can shift the outcome in terms of force or rebound and therefore require trained operators and good equipment.
Safety and Best Practices in A956 Testing
Testing follows the standard procedures so that test equipment will not get damaged and safety for the operator will not be compromised. Handling, proper positioning with securely placed material, wearing PPE, and regular calibration and maintenance shall avoid any form of injury, misfire, and test results inaccuracy.
Importance of A956
This standard ensures material consistency on hardness, affecting the strength and performance of steel products. It offers rapid on-site hardness testing that ensures quality thereby reducing the risk of failure and enhancing safety.
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FAQ's
Where can I get the astm a956 tested?
You can share your astm a956 testing requirements with MaTestLab. MaTestLab has a vast network of material testing laboratories, spread across the USA and Canada. We support your all material testing needs ranging from specific astm a956 test to various testing techniques.
How much do I need to pay for the astm a956 test?
Please contact us for a detailed quote for your astm a956 testing needs. Cost incurred to carry out different astm a956 testing methodology depends on the type of raw material; number of samples, coupons, or specimens; test conditions, turn around time etc. Costs of some ASTM testing methods start from $100 and the final value depends upon the factors listed above. Please contact us for the best and latest prices.
How many samples are required for astm a956?
The required number of samples or specimens should comply with the procedure given in the astm a956 standard. However, the MaTestLab operations team can assist you for your special requirements once you share your testing details with us.
How much discount can I get on the astm a956 test?
MaTestLab has a vast testing laboratory network, hence we bring you the best testing facilities in a cost-effective way. We offer considerable discounts (15-20%) to our returning customers based on test volume and frequency.
How many days will it take to complete the astm a956 test?
The turnaround time for astm a956 test methodology depends upon the test procedure mentioned in the standard test document. However, we at MaTestLab understand your research requirements and hence try to get your test completed within the least possible time.
Where can I get the astm a956 tested?
You can share your astm a956 testing requirements with MaTestLab. MaTestLab has a vast network of material testing laboratories, spread across the USA and Canada. We support your all material testing needs ranging from specific astm a956 test to various testing techniques.
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