Ames Upgraded their Wooden Instrument Case in 2000

Company News

Ames Upgraded their Wooden Instrument Case in 2000

Feb 1, 2022 by Ames Portable hardness testers 0 Comments #Ames case, #Ames portable hardness tester, #Ames rockwell hardness tester, #Ames upgrade, #rockwell testers
Limited Edition model 1 Portable Hardness Tester in Vintage Wood Case

Limited Edition model 1 Portable Hardness Tester in Vintage Wood Case

Enjoy all of the perks of owning an Ames Model 1 Portable Hardness Tester with the Antique look of a wood case!  These limited edition Hardness testers are available while supplies last as a celebration forElectro Arc’s 75th Anniversary!

$3,447.29
Shop now

What you get when you purchase an Ames Hardness Tester has never changed, the case you get your tester in did. From the time Electro Arc purchased Ames Portable Hardness Testers in 1975, they were sold as a kit including the tester, a set of hardness test specimens, diamond and ball penetrators, and flat and “V” anvils. Models larger than 1″ also include a set of jaw-opening adapters.

Ames portable hardness testers have a very traditional, fine-instrument look to them. They should: they have been around manufacturing and metal shops for fifty years, quietly doing their jobs. In their highly varnished, dovetail-joined wooden cases, some of them have probably been mistaken for antiques. Ames announced sleek new cases for its proven line of portable, easy-to-use hardness testers in May of 2000. The smart black bolded high impact cases, with full loam cradling provide better protection for these precision instruments than the wooden cases previously supplied.

Although they are precision instruments and should be handled as such, they are surprisingly durable. Some Ames testers are still working perfectly after thirty years of service, an age at which other machines really are antiques. Accuracy testing and annual calibration are required to keep these testers testing accurately. To help Ames owners get the most value from their investment, we offer both calibrationand repair services for your Ames tester.

This kit contains everything you need to take your portable hardness tester with you in a secure and durable case. Ames portability lends itself to the appeal of using Ames portable hardness testers. Easy to use with one hand, easy to learn to use, and applicable in a number of work environments. Ames portable Rockwell testers have been manufactured continuously under the Ames name for over seventy years and for over fifty years under Electro Arc (now owned by Stillion Industries). They are guaranteed to comply with ASTM standard E-110 for testing hardness in Rockwell scales, with no conversion needed.

All Ames testers are 100% made in the USA, now 97% of the parts are machined by Stillion Industries. All Ames testers are assembled, tested, and calibrated onsite at our facility in Dexter, Michigan.

Rockwell Hardness Testers

Ames Precision Model ST allows you to Check the Hardness of Tubing in Rockwell Scales

Jan 13, 2022 by Ames Portable hardness testers 0 Comments #Ames model ST, #Ames portable hardness tester, #Ames portable hardness testing, #Ames tester models, #measuring rockwell hardness, #rockwell hardness, #rockwell scales

In May of 1977, Ames announced the release of the Ames Model ST portable Hardness Tester. This superficial tester is specifically designed for testing small diameter or thin wall tubing. The small anvil will fit into the inner wall of tubing as small as 3/16″ and is effective in checking larger sizes as well. The tube hardness tester reads in the 15-T scale and comes in a high-impact case just like our other portable hardness testers.

Original promotion for Ames Model ST – Tube Tester

The Ames model ST tubing tester uses a special cylindrical anvil to test soft tubular materials such as copper. This tester is recommended for small diameter tubing with thin walls. The maximum load for the model ST is 15 KG, anything greater will damage this tester.

Before you begin a hardness test using your model ST, be sure that the 1/16 ball penetrator is snuggly screwed into the end of the tester spindle shaft. The 1/18″ pin perpendicular to the spindle is the anvil.

How to use your Model ST Tube tester:

Step 1: Rotate the bezel (outer ring of the dial indicator) and position the face of the dial so that the dot on the face is directly below the indicator’s pointer hand.

Step 2: Position your part over the 1/8″ anvil and slowly rotate the handwheel until the penetrator makes contact with the part and moves the pointer hand on the dial indicator to the line marked set. Stop at this point. You have reached the minor load point (3 kg).

Step 3: Rotate the numbered aluminum barrel dial, so that the 1/16 inch pin rests on top of the lucite magnifier.

Step 4: Rotate the handwheel until the pointer hand on the dial indicator reaches the major load of 15 kg (do not over or undershoot the target). Immediately after reaching the major load, rotate the handwheel back to the “set” (minor load) position.

Step 5: To read the Rockwell hardness, find the fine line on the magnifier. The scale below the magnifier on the aluminum barrel is graded in units of 10. The short hash marks are in units of two.

Rockwell Hardness Testers

Is my Ames or DoAll Portable Hardness Tester Eligible for Repair or Calibration?

Dec 23, 2021 by Ames Portable hardness testers 0 Comments #Ames, #Ames calibration, #Ames portable hardness tester, #Ames tester, #calibrate Ames, #DoAll, #DoAll Tester, #Rockwell hardness tester

The Electro Arc company obtained the Ames Portable Hardness Tester line in 1975and began manufacturing the standard and superficial hardness testers and accessories. For a short period of time, the company also made Fowler Hardness Testers and in the mid 1980’s through the early 1990’s also made DoAll portable hardness testers. Ames is now a Stillion Industries product line, continuing to make and service all Ames Portable Hardness Testers and DoAll hardness testers with a serial number of 12000 or newer. Some DoAll Hardness testers were issued with serial numbers starting with 17 by mistake and these testers may not be eligible for repair or calibration.

Ames precision is based on the flex of the Ames Frame during hardness tests. Over time, the portable testers are no longer serviceable, they must be replaced. If you are considering buying a used Ames, DoAll or Fowler portable hardness tester, it is strongly recommended that you check the model number to determine if your tester is new enough to receive calibration or repair service.

DoAll Portable Hardness Testers are identical to Ames portable Hardness testers with the exception of the dial indicator which bears the DoAll Precision logo.

When determining if your Ames or DoAll precision tester can be calibrated or repaired, look at the model number engraved into the frame of the tester. If your portable tester does not have an engraved model number, chances are, it is not a genuine Ames Portable Hardness Tester. You can always call us with your model number because we have records of every portable hardness tester made and sold by Ames.

All portable hardness testers made and sold by Electro Arc, and now Stillion Industries feature the model number in the same place. DoAll and Fowler hardness testers also followed the same pattern. If you are planning to send your tester in for calibration or maintenance please be sure to include your company information with the tester when you send it.

Request Calibration
Request Repair
Ames How To

Rockwell Hardness Charts for Metals

Dec 11, 2020 by Ames Portable hardness testers 0 Comments #Ames portable hardness tester, #Ames tester models, #choosing rockwell hardness scales, #frequently used scales on Ames tester models, #rockwell testers

Ames Rockwell-Brinnell Conversion Chart

Our handy conversion chart helps you convert your Ames Hardness Readings from the Rockwell scales to Brinnell scales

Download Now

Choosing a Rockwell Hardness Scale

Below are a few Hardness Scale charts that will help you choose the proper set up for your Ames Rockwell portable hardness tester. The charts cover the following :

All information included in this article is found in the Ames Tester Manual. Download it here.

Material to be tested – 

Very hard metals, soft and hard steel, aluminum, brass, and thinner materials can all be tested with our testers.

Brass and aluminum alloys can be handled by using a 1/16 ball

The penetrator that is needed – 

Very hard metals like tungsten carbide, and thin steel needs to be tested using a Diamond penetrator.

Brass and aluminum alloys can be handled by using a 1/16 ball

Brass and aluminum alloys can be handled by using a 1/16 ball

The major load to be applied – 

Your tester is guaranteed to +/- 1 point Rockwell. When using this tester, you must use extreme care to position the pointer exactly on the minor and major load marks.

Lastly, the correct Barrel dial setting – 

The upper line of the barrel’s hardness scales should be exactly aligned beneath the hairline on the magnifier.

Do you need to convert Brinell to Rockwell?  See our Rockwell/Brinell conversion chart.

 

Metal hardness chart scale Rockwell Metal Hardness Charts

Here are some commonly used scales on our models.

Frequently Used Rockwell Scales

Please contact us with any questions regarding proper maintenance and set up of our Rockwell testers.

Shop Ames Hardness Testers:

Measuring Hardness Rockwell Scale
Ames How To

Hardness Testing in Rockwell Scales

Nov 30, 2020 by Ames Portable hardness testers 0 Comments #Ames portable hardness testing, #Ames rockwell hardness tester, #measuring rockwell hardness, #rockwell hardness, #rockwell scales

Hardness Testing – Rockwell scales

Rockwell Hardness testing is a system for determining the hardness of metals and alloys of all kinds. The American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) has established a standard recognized worldwide to help manufacturers maintain the qualities they want in their products. If you are using the Brinell scale check out our conversion chart.      

ASTM Standards E-18 and E-110 defines the test method and parameters for a valid test using portable hardness testers. Following is a general description of the method. A spheroconical diamond penetrator or a carbide ballpenetrator is forced into the surface being tested at a predetermined pressure load. The hardness is read as a function of the depth of penetration.

To overcome errors in measurement, two pressure loads are applied in sequence. The first, a minor load is applied and the readout dial is “zeroed” with the part being tested still under load. Then the major load is applied.  The penetrator is backed out to theminor load point to read the distance traveled. The hardness reading represents the additional depth of penetration beyond the minor load.  Tester accuracy is checked by running the test on specimens whose hardness has been certified by an independent testing laboratory. All Ames hardness testers perform genuine Rockwell Hardness tests, giving a direct Rockwell reading. Their accuracy meets or exceeds ASTM Standards E-18 and E-110. Each tester comes complete with test specimens to assure continued accuracy. 

*All Ames testers are
factory lubricated. Do not
attempt additional lubrication.
Keep the tester dry and free
from oil. Store in the case
provided. When necessary,
wipe with a commercial
cleaner

Maintaining accuracy with a portable Rockwell hardness tester

All AMES Hardness Testers, whether in constant use or not, require accuracy checks. To check accuracy, take the average of 5 readings on the test block. The readings on the barrel dial should agree with the marking on the test block, within +/- 1 point.
Further, to guarantee the accuracy of your tester, it is recommended that tests be made in high, medium, and low ranges. For example, C Scale, C-63, C-50, and C-28. Once per year, your tester needs to be factory calibrated. 

The distance between the center of two adjacent indentations shall be at least three times the diameter of
the indentation.  The distance from the center of any indentation to an edge of the test piece shall be at least two and a half times the diameter of the indentation. In other words, keep indentations 3 diameters apart. Indentations can only be made on one side of the test block.

Please check out our penetrators for hardness testing by clicking the link below

Penetrators for sale

Also check out more on how to properly use a portable Rockwell tester by following the link below

How to properly use a Ames Rockwell Hardness Tester

You may also contact us with any questions you may have. 

This Video Explains How to Use Your Rockwell-Brinell Conversion Chart:

Rockwell-Hardness-Tester-Bench-Stand
Hardness Tester Accessories

Portable Rockwell Hardness Testing is Easier With the Bench Stand

Feb 5, 2020 by Ames Portable hardness testers 0 Comments #Ames bench stand, #Ames portable hardness tester accessories, #hands free Ames portable hardness tester

Since 1947 Ames has been providing you with top-of-the-line portable Rockwell hardness testers for the hardness testing of various metals. We are committed to ensuring the accuracy of your measuring instruments. You can count on our help to get your job done in a safe and convenient manner. This accessory is made of 100% cast iron specially designed to fit any of your Ames Hardness Testers (with the exception of the Model 8 and Model 16 special testers).  The sleeve protects your tester from scratching and the no-slip bottom ensures you can use both hands to conduct your Ames test with no worries.

Ames Bench stand helps you get an accurate reading by removingl the awkward and challenging issues when trying to test your equipment.

  • Cast iron for solid support
  • Holds tester at a convenient angle, freeing hands for ease of use
  • Internal fiber sleeve protects handle
  • 11 lbs.

Looking for instructions on how to use our tester? Download our famous Rockwell tester manual.

Company News

Stillion Industries Acquires Ames Hardness Testers

Jan 22, 2020 by Ames Portable hardness testers 0 Comments #Ames Hardness testers, #Stillion Industries, #Stillion Industries portable hardness tester

Exciting news for our customers!

As of July 1st, 2019 Stillion Industries has acquired Electro Arc Manufacturing. This is good news for our customers. Alongside Stillion Industries, Electro Arc now has state-of-the-art ISO9001:2015 compliant machining and on-site engineering. With Electro Arc’s long history of quality product lines and Stillion Industries’ expertise in machining, we are positioned to make both companies reach new heights.

The move coincides with the retirement of Harold Stark, Electro Arc’s President/CEO since 1958, and ensures the continuation of Electro Arc’s tradition of quality.  Stillion Industries, active in the Ann Arbor area since 1972, brings expertise in machining as well as manufacturing know-how from Dexter Manufacturing Incorporated, which joined Stillion in 2014.

We have retained all employees from Electro Arc, doubling our workforce to maintain the long history and experience of both companies. Electro Arc has been in the Ann Arbor area since 1947 Stillion Industries since 1972. Electro Arc Manufacturing includes the Ames Hardness Tester and Uni-tek metal disintegrator product lines. The acquisition will ensure we are here to stay and we are committed to customer service.  We at Stillion Industries feel Electro Arc, Ames and Uni-tek are time tested superior products. We are committed to providing great customer service and a high quality
product.

We look forward to your ongoing valued business as we continue to provide a quality product.

Stillion Industries

Keith Stillion
President

 

Rockwell-Metal-Hardness-Tester-Calibration
Ames How To

Portable Rockwell Hardness Tester Calibration – An Infographic

Jan 1, 2020 by Ames Portable hardness testers 0 Comments #Ames Hardness Tester calibration, #Ames portable hardness tester calibration, #calibrate Ames hardness tester, #calibrating your Ames Hardness tester

Rockwell-Metal-Hardness-Tester-Calibration

 

Don’t forget to calibrate your Ames Rockwell Tester once a year for continued accuracy

To get your Ames Tester calibrated or repaired please ship it to:

Stillion Industries
2055 N. Lima Center Rd.
Dexter MI 48130
United States

Please be sure to put your contact information in with the tester shipment.

Metal Rockwell Hardness Testing
Ames How To

How to Test the Hardness of Steel

Nov 26, 2019 by Ames Portable hardness testers 0 Comments #Ames portable hardness testing steel, #Rockewell hardness of steel, #steel hardness test, #steel in rockwell hardness, #test steel hardness
Rockwell Hardness testing can be used for determining the hardness of soft and harder metals including steel. The American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) has established a standard recognized worldwide to help manufacturers maintain the qualities they want in their products.  ASTM Standards E-18 and E-110 defines the test method and parameters for a valid test using portable hardness testers. Rockwell hardness testing is a way of measuring the hardness of steel. Hardness means resistance to penetration. This test gets its name from Stanley P. Rockwell who invented the test and the original hardness testing machines. Using the Rockwell method to test steel hardness The Rockwell hardness testing of steel parts is done by applying loads to parts via either a tungsten carbide ball or a  diamond indenter.  The surface of the steel part has to be ready before the testing can begin.  If it is not, the chances of inaccurate readings rise. Next, a light load is applied to the indenter or penetrator (usually either 3 or 5 kg) to zero out theportable Rockwell hardness tester. Next, a heavy load ( from 15 kg to 150 kg) is applied and held for a period of time. The length the indenter traveled from the application of the light load to the release of the heavy load is documented and used to determine the hardness of the steel Rockwell hardness is determined by measuring the distance traveled by an indenter when a heavy load is applied to a heat-treated part. The Rockwell method is the most common and accurate way to get a calculation on the hardness of steel Take a look at the video below for further instructions on using an Ames portable Rockwell hardness tester. Further reading What metals can Rockwell hardness testers be used with?
Ames portable hardness testers collection
Rockwell Hardness Testers

Benefits of Using a Hand Held Rockwell Hardness Tester

Jul 5, 2019 by Ames Portable hardness testers 0 Comments #handheld rockwell hardness tester, #rockwell hardness tester handheld, #test metal hardness with a handheld tester

Hardness calculations on metals and a are important for the manufacturing of different things: from automobiles to electrodes. Hardness qulaity control is used in various fields like machine engineering, metallurgy, mining and energy resource extraction.

Metal hardness measurements are performed with the help of stationary or bench and portable hardness testers. The operating principle of stationary hardness testers on Rockwell scales are described in the standards on the corresponding methods. Hardness tests on stationary hardness testers are direct measurements. Consequently, hardness tests performed using these methods are more accurate than the measurements via indirect methods.

Hardness tests on portable hardness testers are indirect measurements. Most portable hardness testers use the ultrasonic contact impedance method. The result of measurements on portable hardness testers is recalculated into hardness values on the Rockwell scales. Usually portable hardness testers have the following error limits of hardness measurements: ± 2 HRC on Rockwell scales.

The following is why portable Rockwell hardness testers have an advantage. Portable hardness testers are significantly lighter, they can measure hardness directly on a manufactured detail and in hard-to-reach places. Portable hardness testers are the only hardness testers suitable for conducting measurements in the field. One portable hardness tester enables the user to obtain hardness values using at least three different methods. The cost of portable hardness testers is lower than that of stationary ones. Important characteristics of portable hardness testers are repeatability and reproducibility of measurements. Despite relatively modest accuracy in comparison with stationary hardness testers, portable units have high reproducibility and repeatability and can be successfully used for components screening, control of the product homogeneity on hardness, as well as measurements in the field

There are several other ways for hardness to be measured, but the Rockwell test is the easiest one to perform. The portable tester provides an accurate measurement that can then be converted to a number on the hardness scale. The device is also highly versatile, and metals of nearly any size and shape can be used

Call or email us with any questions.

734-475-8527

UK +44 (0) 1384 231535

Email U.S. @ sales@electroarc.com UK @ sales@electro.co.uk