KERN UCI Hardness Tester - HO 1K - Test Force 10N - Units: HL, HV, HB, HRB, HRC, MPa, HRA - Manual
KERN HO 1K
The HO 1K is a mobile ultrasound hardness tester designed for fast, precise, and nearly non destructive hardness measurements. Using UCI (Ultrasonic Contact Impedance) technology, it creates only microscopic indentation marks, making it ideal for applications where preserving the sample surface is important.
This device works with a vibrating rod that carries a Vickers indenter. When pressed onto the material with a defined test force, the vibration frequency changes in proportion to the hardness. The instrument converts this frequency shift into a hardness value instantly. Unlike traditional Vickers testing, no optical evaluation is required, allowing measurements directly on site, even on heavy or permanently installed parts.
The HO 1K is particularly suited for:
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Weld seams and heat-affected zones.
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Small forgings and castings.
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Gear flanks, ball bearings, and tools.
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Components in automotive, aerospace, and precision engineering.
Compared with Leeb hardness testers, it is less dependent on sample weight and size. It also complies with recognized standards (DIN 50159-1, ASTM A1038, JB/T9377), ensuring reliability and accuracy.
With built-in memory, the device can store up to 1000 measurement groups. A mini statistics function automatically displays the average, minimum, maximum, and standard deviation. Calibration is simple, with options for standard hardness blocks or up to 20 stored reference values for different materials.
The HO 1K comes as a complete kit, including calibration block (approx. 61 HRC), UCI probe, display unit, USB cable, software, and carrying case.
Key Technical Data
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Test force: 10 N.
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Measuring units: HL, HV, HB, HRB, HRC, HRA, MPa.
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Measuring ranges: Rockwell A 37–85, Rockwell B 41–100, Rockwell C 20.3–68.
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Brinell range: 79–618 HB.
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Tensile strength range: 255–2180 MPa.
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Minimum sample thickness: 2 mm.
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Minimum sample weight: 300 g.
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Data memory: 1000 groups × 20 values.
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Interface: USB.
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Probe: 15.5 cm length, Ø 18 mm.
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Robust metal housing with lacquered finish.


**All our products are brand new, shipped in the original packaging, and include manufacturer warranty**