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Testing & Quality

How to Read a Metal Test Certificate

The certificate that ships with hardened/tested parts carries several values worth reading—to confirm the work met spec.

5 min read · Updated April 25, 2026

One plant in Samut Sakhon, ThailandSmall steel parts in bulk — screws, nuts, boltsQuote within 24 hours

A quality-control station: a bench hardness tester, one monitor showing the magnified indentation and a second showing the results spreadsheet, with keyboard and barcode scanner, at a window overlooking the production floor.
The hardness check sits next to the line. Readings go into the system on the spot, so the test report can be issued per lot.

What the certificate contains

  • Part/lot details and the process performed.
  • Hardness results (HRC/HV/HB) against the required limits.
  • Coating thickness and/or salt-spray results, if applicable.
  • Date, instrument and inspector.

How to read the values

Check whether each reading sits within the specified range—e.g. spec 58–60 HRC, measured 59 = pass.

Check the number of points/samples taken and that the units match what was agreed.

Why it matters

It is traceable quality evidence for QC, audits or passing on to your end customer.

Automotive/export work usually mandates this document.

FAQ

Can I get a certificate?+

Yes—tell us the values you need (hardness/thickness/salt spray) and we issue results with the job.

Must the reading hit an exact value?+

No single value—it must fall inside the agreed range, e.g. 58–60 HRC.

Who certifies the test?+

Our lab uses calibrated instruments and issues results under the company; we can also coordinate an accredited external lab if required.

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Technical content review

Reviewed by the V.S. Heat Treatment QA and production team—heat-treatment and finishing operations since 1994 under an ISO 9001:2015 quality system.

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