Hardness Test Blocks

Hardness comparison plates and reference blocks provide a repeatable surface for routine instrument checks. Select the product for the test method, scale and compatible tester, and check whether an assigned value or certificate is included.

3 products

Sauter AHB Hardness Test Blocks

From £133.04

Sauter HO Rockwell C hardness test block for HO UCI testers

Sauter HO HRC Hardness Test Blocks

£211.20

Sauter AHMO Leeb hardness test block for hardness tester checks

Sauter AHMO Hardness Test Blocks

From £164.00

Comparison plates and reference blocks

These products support routine checks of Shore, Leeb and UCI hardness testing equipment. They can help monitor instrument response, detect changes and confirm that the tester is behaving consistently before measurements are taken.

A comparison plate should not automatically be treated as a certified calibration standard. The supplied documentation, assigned value, tolerance and intended test method differ between products, so check the individual specification before purchase.

Use a clean, undamaged test area and follow the instrument instructions for the number and spacing of readings. Reference blocks also require suitable handling and periodic assessment to avoid wear affecting the result.

Match the block to your Shore durometer, Leeb hardness tester or UCI hardness tester. For other positioning and testing aids, see hardness tester accessories.

Verification blocks versus calibration standards

A comparison plate can be used to observe repeatability or a change in instrument response. This is not automatically the same as calibrating the tester against a certified reference standard.

Where traceability is required, confirm that the selected block has an assigned value, stated uncertainty and suitable certificate for the intended method. Do not assume that a Shore comparison plate, Leeb block and Rockwell block serve the same purpose.

Repeated impacts or indentations can alter the test surface. Follow the recommended spacing and avoid damaged areas.

Shore hardness verification

Shore hardness test blocks are used for checking Shore A, Shore D and Shore A0 durometers used on rubber, plastics, elastomers and foam materials.

Metal hardness tester checks

Rockwell and Leeb blocks provide comparison points for routine checks of compatible metal hardness testers used in workshops, laboratories and inspection environments.

Quality control procedures

Reference blocks support routine instrument checks, calibration verification and comparative testing procedures across manufacturing and laboratory applications.

Learn more

Hardness test block applications

Hardness test blocks are used across a wide range of industrial and laboratory applications where reliable hardness verification and instrument checking are required.

Shore hardness tester verification

Shore test blocks are widely used for checking the performance of Shore durometers measuring rubber, silicone, elastomers, foam and plastic materials within quality control and production environments.

Metal hardness testing

Leeb and Rockwell hardness reference blocks are commonly used within engineering workshops, heat treatment facilities and inspection departments to verify metal hardness testers and maintain reliable measurement performance.

Verification and quality assurance

Where suitable values and documentation are supplied, hardness blocks can support routine verification, operator training and internal quality procedures.

How to choose a hardness test block

Match the block or comparison plate to the instrument, method and scale, then confirm the supplied value and documentation.

Match the hardness scale

Choose a test block suitable for the hardness scale used by the instrument, including Shore A, Shore D, Shore A0, Leeb HL or Rockwell HRC depending on the application.

Consider the material being tested

Shore hardness blocks are typically used for rubber, plastics and elastomers, while Rockwell and Leeb reference blocks are designed for metallic hardness testing applications.

Check certification requirements

Some applications may require certified hardness reference blocks with traceability documentation for internal quality procedures or calibration verification routines.

Review long-term usage requirements

Frequent verification work may benefit from multiple-block sets or durable reference materials designed for repeated testing and long-term stability within industrial environments.

Hardness test block FAQs

Answers about routine verification, traceability and caring for hardness reference surfaces.

What are hardness test blocks used for?

Hardness test blocks provide a stable comparison surface for routine checks of compatible testers. Depending on the product, a block may have a nominal or assigned value that can be compared with the instrument reading.

Why are Shore hardness test blocks important?

Shore hardness test blocks help confirm that durometers are providing reliable and repeatable readings when testing rubber, plastics, elastomers and foam materials. They are widely used for routine instrument verification and quality control procedures.

Do hardness test blocks require certification?

Certification is not always required. If traceability is needed, choose a block supplied with a suitable assigned value, uncertainty information and certificate for the intended hardness method.

Can hardness test blocks be reused?

Yes, provided the test surface remains clean and undamaged. Avoid previous indentations, follow the recommended spacing between readings and reassess or replace a worn block.