Brinell scale

Written by Rahul Verma | Updated: September 10, 2025

BRINELL SCALE

One of the indentation hardness tests created for hardness testing is the Brinell test. The standard test applies a force of 3,000 kg to a hardened steel indenter with a diameter of 10 mm. The load is kept constant for a set amount of time. A lesser force is applied for harder materials, and a tungsten carbide ball is utilized instead of a steel ball.
The size of the indentation is determined using either a microscope or an optical measuring tool, and the hardness value is computed using a formula that considers the force applied, the size of the indentation, and the material’s surface area. The Brinell hardness number (BHN) is expressed in pressure units, usually in megapascals (MPa).
The Brinell scale is known for its ability to measure the hardness of materials that are too rough, coarse, or large to be measured by other methods. It is commonly used in applications where high accuracy and repeatability are not critical, such as in the automotive, aerospace, and heavy machinery industries.

The Brinell scale is also used as a reference scale for other hardness testing methods, and it provides valuable information about a material’s resistance to deformation, wear, and abrasion. However, it may not be suitable for measuring very hard or thin materials, as the indentation size can become too small or the material can fracture. Overall, the Brinell scale is a widely used and established method for assessing the hardness of materials in various industrial and engineering applications.

Video 01: Brinell Hardness Test