White Paper: Choosing the Right Base
Brinell Hardness Testing of Large Metal Parts
Overview
When it comes to Brinell hardness testing on large metal components, choosing the right base is essential for efficiency, accuracy, and repeatability. King Tester offers several anvil base options tailored for different use cases. This white paper explores the key differences between the C1 base (13½” x 4″) and the C7 base (20″ x 6″), helping maintenance teams, quality managers, and field technicians select the best fit for their operations.
The King Tester C1 base is a portable and reliable solution for everyday shop testing, while the C7 base is purpose-built for heavy-duty, oversized parts—particularly in challenging field environments where precision and stability are crucial.
C1 Base
C7 Base
Base Specifications
| Feature | C1 Base | C7 Base |
| Footprint (L x W) | 13½” x 4″ | 20″ x 6″ |
| Intended Use | General-purpose shop use | Heavy-duty, large part testing |
| Portability | More compact and lightweight | Heavier, but stable in the field |
| Part Support Surface | Standard size | Extra-large for oversized parts |
| Field Testing Suitability | Moderate | Excellent |
| Stability on Irregular Surfaces | Good | Superior |
Key Differences Explained
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Size and Stability
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- C7 Base: The 20″ x 6″ footprint offers enhanced stability for testing large, heavy, or irregularly shaped components in shipyards, power plants, and steel fabrication environments.
- C1 Base: At 13½” x 4″, it provides a more compact solution for general shop use and mid-sized parts.
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Field Readiness
Stability is critical for accurate results, especially in field environments.
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- C7 Base: The wide footprint reduces movement during indentation, ideal for heavy machinery and structural components.
- C1 Base: While portable, it performs best in controlled environments with standard-sized parts.
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Part Size Accommodation
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- C7 Base: Designed to support oversized parts securely
- Reduce risk of slippage during testing.
- C1 Base: Adequate for most standard applications
- C7 Base: Designed to support oversized parts securely
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Durability and Weight Distribution
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- C7 Base: Built for high loads and field durability to ensure test stability without shifting.
- C1 Base: Strong and reliable for standard sized and weighted parts.
Recommended Base |
|
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Testing forged components on shop floor |
C1 |
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Hardness testing on large weldments in the field |
C7 |
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In-house quality control for metal stock |
C1 |
| Structural testing of metal beams on-site |
C7 |
| Use for field applications |
C7 |
Conclusion: Why Choose the Right Base?
The base directly impacts:
- Test accuracy
- Operator safety
- Repeatability of results
- Ease of setup
The King Tester C1 is a portable and reliable solution for everyday shop testing, while the C7 base is purpose-built for heavy-duty, oversized parts—particularly in challenging field environments where precision and stability are crucial.
Recommendation
Choose the C7 base for:
- Testing large or heavy components
- Fieldwork on uneven or rough surfaces
- Needing maximum part support and stability
Choose the C1 base for:
- Standard-size parts
- Work is primarily in a controlled shop environment
- Portability and compactness are top priorities
