Equotip Live UCI is a unique, in situ metal hardness test system, combining the UCI measurement principle with a bluetooth link to an iOS application.
UCI is a commonly used test for applications as broad as a supplement to Vickers tests when on site or to evaluate the change in hardness within a heat affected zone near to a weld. Data is uploaded to a webapp available in any web browser and to IOS via a bluetooth link.
The UCI method uses the same pyramid shaped diamond as a conventional Vickers hardness tester, but unlike Vickers testing, no optical evaluation of the indentation is required, enabling fast and portable measurements.
The UCI method excites a rod into an ultrasonic oscillation. The test load is applied by a spring and typically ranges from 1 to 5 kg of force (HV1 – HV5 and HV10). As the diamond is forced into the material, the frequency of the rod oscillation changes in response to the contact area between the diamond and the material under test. The instrument detects the shift in frequency, converts it to a hardness value which is immediately displayed on the screen.
The required test load can be selected by the user in the settings menu, there are no accessory probes required, all measurement values from HV1-5 and HV10 are available with the standard probe . For each measurement series, the force can be chosen from three levels, HV1, HV5, and HV10 (~10 N, ~50N,and ~100 N), to fit a wide range of applications. The minimum required mass for reliable UCI measurements is 0.3 kg (0.66 lbs),and a thickness of at least 5 mm (0.2 inch).
The included iOS application synchronises with the Proceq Live Webapp, available on any web browser. From within this application the test results and logbook activity, included notes from the operator, pictures and all measurements are recorded and available for review. There is no need to leave site to upload these results, provided the user's phone has an internet connection results will sync as they work.
The accessory foot improves the ability to complete UCI testing on round shafts and over thin materials.