1. Introduction
This manual provides essential instructions for the safe and effective operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of the INSIZE ISH-R150 Manual Rockwell Hardness Tester. Please read this manual thoroughly before operating the device to ensure proper usage and to prevent damage or injury.
2. Safety Information
Adherence to the following safety guidelines is crucial for safe operation:
- Always operate the tester on a stable, level surface to prevent tipping.
- Ensure the work area is clean, well-lit, and free from obstructions.
- Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as safety glasses, when operating the device.
- Do not attempt to modify the tester or use it for purposes other than its intended function.
- Keep hands and loose clothing away from moving parts during operation.
- Disconnect power before performing any maintenance or cleaning.
- Only qualified personnel should perform repairs or complex maintenance.
3. Components Overview
The INSIZE ISH-R150 Manual Rockwell Hardness Tester consists of several key components:

Figure 1: INSIZE ISH-R150 Manual Rockwell Hardness Tester. This image displays the complete hardness tester, highlighting its analog display, indenter, and specimen stage.
- Analog Display: Located at the top, this dial indicates the hardness value. It features scales for different Rockwell hardness measurements.
- Indenter: The component that applies the test force to the specimen, creating an indentation.
- Specimen Stage: The platform where the test specimen is placed. It can be elevated manually.
- Load Control Lever: Used to apply and release the test force manually.
- Test Force Selector: A knob or mechanism to select the desired test force (e.g., 60Kgf, 100Kgf, 150Kgf).
4. Setup
- Unpacking: Carefully remove the tester from its packaging. Retain all packaging materials for future transport or storage.
- Placement: Position the tester on a sturdy, vibration-free workbench or table. Ensure there is adequate space around the unit for operation and maintenance.
- Leveling: Verify that the tester is level. Adjust the leveling feet if necessary to ensure accurate measurements.
- Indenter Installation: Install the appropriate indenter (e.g., diamond cone or steel ball) securely into the indenter holder. Refer to the specific test method for the correct indenter.
- Anvil Placement: Place the correct anvil (flat, V-type, etc.) on the specimen stage, suitable for the shape of the test specimen.
5. Operating Instructions
Follow these steps to perform a Rockwell hardness test:
- Select Test Force: Rotate the test force selector to choose the desired major load (e.g., 60Kgf, 100Kgf, 150Kgf) according to the material and Rockwell scale being used.
- Place Specimen: Carefully place the test specimen on the anvil.
- Elevate Specimen: Rotate the specimen stage elevation wheel to raise the specimen until it makes contact with the indenter. Continue raising until the small pointer on the analog display reaches the red dot or designated mark, indicating the preliminary test force (98N/10Kgf) has been applied.
- Apply Major Load: Push the load control lever forward to apply the major test load. The lever will automatically return to its original position after the load is applied and held for the dwell time.
- Read Hardness Value: Once the load is released, read the hardness value directly from the analog display. Use the appropriate scale (e.g., C scale for HRC, B scale for HRB). The minimum reading is 0.5HR.
- Lower Specimen: Rotate the specimen stage elevation wheel to lower the specimen and remove it from the anvil.
- Repeat Tests: For accurate results, perform multiple tests on different areas of the specimen, ensuring sufficient distance between indentations.
Available Hardness Scales: The INSIZE ISH-R150 supports various Rockwell hardness scales, including HRA, HRB, HRC, HRD, HRF, and HRG. The specific scale used depends on the material being tested and the indenter/load combination.
6. Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and accuracy of your hardness tester:
- Cleaning: Keep the tester clean and free from dust, dirt, and corrosive substances. Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning. Avoid using harsh chemicals.
- Indenter Care: Inspect the indenter regularly for wear or damage. A worn indenter will lead to inaccurate readings. Replace indenters as needed.
- Lubrication: Periodically apply a thin layer of light machine oil to moving parts, such as the specimen stage screw, to ensure smooth operation. Avoid over-lubrication.
- Calibration: The tester should be calibrated periodically by a qualified technician using certified reference blocks to maintain accuracy. Refer to local standards and regulations for calibration frequency.
- Storage: When not in use, cover the tester with a dust cover and store it in a dry, stable environment.
7. Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues you might encounter:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Inaccurate readings | Worn or damaged indenter; improper calibration; unstable setup; incorrect test force/scale. | Replace indenter; recalibrate tester; ensure stable surface; verify correct settings. |
| Specimen slips during test | Improper anvil selection; specimen not securely placed. | Use appropriate anvil for specimen shape; ensure specimen is stable on the anvil. |
| Load control lever not functioning smoothly | Lack of lubrication; internal obstruction. | Apply light machine oil to moving parts; inspect for obstructions. If issue persists, contact service. |
If you encounter issues not listed here or if solutions do not resolve the problem, please contact INSIZE customer support.
8. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Hardness Scales | HRA, HRB, HRC, HRD, HRF, HRG |
| Preliminary Test Force | 98N / 10Kgf |
| Test Force (Major Load) | 588N / 60Kgf, 980N / 100Kgf, 1471N / 150Kgf |
| Display Type | Analogue |
| Stage Elevation | Manual |
| Load Control | Manual |
| Minimum Reading | 0.5HR |
| Model Number | ISH-R150 |
| Manufacturer | INSIZE |
9. Warranty and Support
For warranty information, please refer to the documentation provided with your purchase or contact INSIZE directly. INSIZE products typically come with a manufacturer's warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship.
For technical support, service, or to order replacement parts, please contact your authorized INSIZE distributor or visit the official INSIZE website for contact information.





