How do I convert HRC to HB or HV?

Use a standard conversion table such as ASTM E140 or JIS. Find your Rockwell C (HRC) value in the table and read across to the Brinell (HB) or Vickers (HV) column. The values are empirical and approximate.

Is hardness conversion exact?

No. Conversions are empirical correlations that vary with material, heat treatment, and test conditions. Tables like ASTM E140 are most reliable for carbon and low-alloy steels; for other alloys use material-specific data.

How is hardness related to tensile strength?

For steel, tensile strength in MPa is roughly 3.3 to 3.4 times the Brinell hardness number (HB). This is an estimate only and should not replace a tensile test for design, and it is meaningful only up to about 600 HV.

What is the difference between HRC, HB and HV?

HRC is Rockwell C (depth of a diamond cone under load), HB is Brinell (diameter of a ball indentation), and HV is Vickers (diagonal of a diamond pyramid indentation). Each uses a different indenter and load.

When can I not use Brinell hardness?

Brinell testing with a tungsten carbide ball is generally limited to about 650 HBW. Above that the ball deforms, so Vickers (HV) or Rockwell C (HRC) should be used for hardened steels.

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Reference

Hardness Conversion Table

Approximate conversion between Rockwell C (HRC), Brinell (HB), Vickers (HV) and tensile strength for steel. Enter any value to find the nearest matching row.

Scale

Value

VickersHV	Rockwell CHRC	BrinellHB	TensileMPa (approx.)