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Definition: VDI 3822 is a guideline for the structured execution of failure analyses of technical products. It describes the procedure, documentation and root-cause assessment. The aim is a reproducible and traceable analysis.

Practical relevance: The guideline defines systematic steps from securing the evidence through analysis to the report. It increases the quality and comparability of failure assessment reports.

Definition: Vickers hardness testing is a static indentation method for determining the hardness of metallic materials using a pyramid-shaped diamond tip. The hardness is calculated from the test force and the indentation diagonal. The method is standardised in DIN EN ISO 6507.

Practical relevance: The Vickers method can be used universally – from soft metals to high-hardness steels – and is also suitable for thin coatings or surface layers. Results are given as HV values together with the test force and dwell time (e.g. HV10). Precise specimen preparation and optical evaluation are decisive for reproducible results.

Decision-making perspectives:

• Technical decision-makers: Control of heat treatment, surface hardening and weld seams.
• Purchasing/project management: Specification of permissible hardness ranges in accordance with material standards.
• Science: Correlation of hardness with microstructure and tensile strength.
• Insurance/law: Documented verification of mechanical properties in the event of quality deviations.

Typical testing or verification methods: Vickers hardness testing (macro and micro hardness), calibration with reference hardness blocks, hardness profile testing.

FAQ:

• When is Vickers hardness testing preferred?
• For thin coatings, small specimens or when a universally comparable hardness value is required.