A scratch tester is a scientific instrument used to evaluate a material's resistance to scratching on its surface. It quantifies the damage threshold of materials under force by simulating real-world scenarios such as scratching and abrasion. Its core function is to measure the scratch resistance of coatings, plastics, metals, glass, and other materials, providing critical data support for material R&D, quality control, and product certification. Compliant with standards including IAS/NZS AS2924.2. ASTM C217. GB/T 17657-2022. BS EN 438.2. BS EN 13310. BS EN 14323. DIN 68861-4. DIN 53799. GB4943:2.10.6.6. IEC60950:2.10.6.6. GB4706-1:21.2. and IEC60335-1:21.2.
I. Principle
Scratch Generation Mechanism: The tester uses a stylus under a specific load moving at a constant speed across the material surface to create a controlled scratch. Stylus shape and load are set according to standard requirements to ensure reproducible results.
Detection Methods:
- Conductive Method: Detects if a coating is penetrated by monitoring changes in electrical potential as the scratch reaches conductive layers.
- Optical Method: Utilizes high-precision cameras or microscopes to observe scratch morphology.
- Acoustic Emission Method: Analyzes material fracture behavior by capturing acoustic wave signals generated during scratching using sensors.
II. Features
Versatility and Adaptability: Interchangeable styli of various diameters and materials accommodate testing needs for rigid organic materials, plastics, glass, etc.
Automation and Intelligence:
- Control system automates parameter setting, test initiation, and data recording.
- Memory function stores 20 test condition sets for quick recall and repeat testing.
- Safety design includes automatic stylus lifting to prevent sample damage on return, and audio-visual alarms for penetration events.
Modularity and Scalability: Supports integration of micro/nano scratch modules for thin-film coating adhesion tests. Optional panoramic imaging systems allow simultaneous analysis of coating-substrate adhesion and scratch resistance.
III. Application Areas
Material R&D: Evaluating hardness, toughness, and wear resistance of automotive/industrial/anti-corrosion coatings; optimizing formulations. Measuring critical load for nano-films (e.g., smartphone screen coatings). Analyzing interfacial bond strength in composites (e.g., CFRP, MMC).
Product Quality Control: Testing scratch resistance of insulating components in appliances per standards; assessing interior parts (e.g., plastic dashboards, leather seats) in automotive; evaluating housings of electronics (e.g., phones, tablets) to reduce warranty claims.
Standard Certification & Compliance: Supports over 20 international/domestic standards, providing authoritative data for product certification.
Research & Education: Used in universities and research institutes for fundamental studies in materials science and tribology; serves as a teaching tool in vocational schools for surface engineering principles.
