What is the Difference Between Hardenability and Hardness?

Hardenability and hardness are two different material properties that are often confused with each other. Here is a summary of the differences between the two:

• Hardenability:
• It is the ability of a material to be hardened when it is exposed to heat and then cooled.
• Hardenability is indicated by the depth of hardening that can be achieved in a material upon quenching from high temperature.
• Factors affecting hardenability include the material's composition, size, and quenching process. The largest factor is the chemistry, with certain elements like nickel or molybdenum significantly increasing hardenability.
• Hardenability can be measured using the Jominy test, which is developed to provide a reference to determine the expected amount of decreased hardenability.
• Hardness:
• Hardness is the measure of a material's resistance to indentation or scratching.
• It is a material property that signifies an alloy's resistance to penetration.
• Hardness is mostly dependent on a ferrous material's carbon content and a few other determining factors.
• Hardness can be measured in any condition, at any time, with the Brinell or Rockwell test.

In summary, hardenability refers to the ability of a material to be hardened, while hardness refers to the strength of a material and its ability to resist damage.

Comparative Table: Hardenability vs Hardness

Hardenability and hardness are two different properties of a material, often confused due to their similarity in definition. Here is a table summarizing the differences between the two:

In summary, hardenability refers to the ability of a material to be hardened, while hardness refers to the material's strength and its ability to resist damage. Hardenability is determined using the Jominy Test, while hardness is measured using the Brinell or Rockwell Test.