Parameter
Hardness
Hardenability
Definition
The ability of a material to resist indentation, wear, and deformation.
The ability of a material to be hardened through heat treatment (quenching).
Measurement
Measured using hardness tests like Brinell (BHN), Rockwell (HRC), and Vickers (HV).
Determined by the Jominy end-quench test.
Focus Area
Surface property of a metal.
Depth and uniformity of hardness penetration.
Influencing Factors
Depends on the microstructure and heat treatment.
Depends on the chemical composition, especially alloying elements (e.g., carbon, chromium, manganese).
Controlled By
Heat treatment (e.g., quenching, tempering).
Alloying elements and cooling rate.
Effect on Performance
Higher hardness increases wear resistance but may lead to brittleness.
Higher hardenability allows deeper and more uniform hardness, improving strength and toughness.
Application Consideration
Used for selecting materials for wear resistance (e.g., cutting tools, gears).
Important to determine how well a material can be hardened in thick sections (e.g., large machine parts).
Hardness is the resistance of a material to indentation and wear.
Hardenability is the ability of a material to achieve hardness throughout its thickness during heat treatment.