Hardness Conversion Calculator

Convert between Rockwell Hardness (HRC), Brinell Hardness (HB), and Vickers Hardness (HV) instantly. This tool is essential for engineers, machinists, and purchasing professionals working with different material standards.

Hardness Conversion
Calculator

HRC
HB
HV
HRC 0 ≈ HB 0 ≈ HV 0
Approximate hardness conversion for engineering reference
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Note: Hardness conversion between HRC, HB, and HV is approximate. Actual values may vary depending on material type, test method, load, surface condition, and applicable standard.

Quick Answer

  • HRC ≈ HB ≈ HV (non-linear, approximate relationships)
  • Typical engineering approximations:

👉 HRC 20 ≈ HB 225 ≈ HV 235
👉 HRC 40 ≈ HB 375 ≈ HV 392
👉 HRC 60 ≈ HB 650 ≈ HV 700

⚠️ Hardness conversions are not exact and depend on material type and heat treatment.

Formula (Hardness Conversion)

There is no single exact formula to convert hardness values.

Instead, engineers use:

  • Empirical conversion charts (ASTM E140)
  • Material-specific correlations

✔ Approximate relationships:

  • HV ≈ HB (close for many steels)
  • HRC ↔ HB/HV = non-linear curve

✔ Example (approx.):
HRC 30 → HB ≈ 285 → HV ≈ 300

Hardness Conversion Table (Approx.)

HRC HB (approx.) HV (approx.)
10 200 210
20 225 235
30 285 300
40 375 392
50 515 540
60 650 700
65 700 760

How to Use This Calculator

  1. Enter a value in HRC, HB, or HV
  2. The other hardness values update automatically
  3. Adjust inputs for real-time conversion

✔ Fast engineering reference
✔ No manual lookup tables needed

Common Engineering Uses

1. Material Selection

  • Compare hardness across different material specs
  • Example: tool steel vs stainless steel

2. Heat Treatment Verification

  • Check if hardness meets design requirements after quenching/tempering

3. Supplier Communication

  • Different regions use different hardness scales

4. Quality Inspection

  • Convert test results into required specification units

Important Notes (Engineering Accuracy)

  • Hardness conversion depends on:
    • Material type (steel, aluminum, brass, etc.)
    • Heat treatment condition
    • Testing method

👉 Standards to reference:

  • ASTM E140 (most widely used)
  • ISO hardness conversion tables

⚠️ Always use official charts for critical applications.

Related Calculators

Enhance your engineering workflow:

  • Tensile Strength ↔ Hardness Converter
  • Density Calculator
  • Surface Roughness (Ra ↔ Rz) Calculator
  • Yield Strength Estimator

FAQ

What is HRC?

Rockwell Hardness (HRC) measures resistance to indentation using a diamond cone indenter.

What is HB?

Brinell Hardness (HB) uses a steel or carbide ball to measure indentation.

What is HV?

Vickers Hardness (HV) uses a diamond pyramid indenter and is highly precise.

Why is hardness conversion approximate?

Because each test method measures hardness differently and materials respond differently.

Which hardness scale should I use?

  • HRC → heat-treated steels
  • HB → castings, softer metals
  • HV → thin materials, coatings, precision parts
CNC Machining Shops

CNC Machining Shops

Need Precision CNC Machined Parts with Controlled Hardness?

Material hardness directly affects wear resistance, strength, and machining performance.

👉 We provide:

  • CNC machining with controlled material properties
  • Heat treatment support (quenching, tempering, case hardening)
  • Material certification and inspection reports
  • Support for HRC / HB / HV specifications

Upload your drawing today and get a fast, engineering-grade quote.