measure of how resistant solid matter is to various kinds of permanent shape change when a force is applied
Synonyms: surface hardness; indentation resistance
Source: https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q3236003
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Note: In copper products, hardness is a critical mechanical property influencing wear resistance, contact stability, and formability. It is affected by alloy composition, cold work, and heat treatment. However, increasing hardness often reduces electrical conductivity and ductility, necessitating design trade-offs depending on application. For example, soft-annealed copper is ideal for flexible cables, while high-hardness alloys (e.g., CuBe) are used for springs and wear-resistant components.
Standards: Hardness is not a material property since it depends on mechanical and thermal treatment. Various methods exist to test it, such as Brinell, Mohs, Rockwell or Vickers hardness.
Related terms: tensile strength; wear resistance; annealing; work hardening; age hardening
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