QATM, a Verder Company, has introduced the Qscratch 20, a fully automatic macro/micro scratch tester built for laboratories that make critical surface- and coating-related decisions every day.
The system combines controlled force application, precise electronic load control, integrated optical evaluation, and guided operation in QpixControl2 software to deliver reproducible scratch testing with progressive or constant load — including structured evaluation, documentation, and reporting in a single workflow.
The Qscratch 20 has also been nominated for the Best of Industry Award in the category “Best of Manufacturing & Design – Quality and Precision,” recognizing its engineering approach to automated coating evaluation.
Standards-Compliant Testing Across a 0.5 – 200 N Range
The Qscratch 20 applies a defined normal force to a diamond stylus as it traverses a coated surface, localizing visible failure events along the scratch track and assigning each to its corresponding critical load (Lc1 initial cracking or plastic deformation, Lc2 spalling, Lc3 penetration to the substrate). Both progressive load (PFST/PL) and constant load (CFST/CL) methods are supported, with single and multiple measurements for efficient test series.
Testing is performed in accordance with DIN EN ISO 20502 and ASTM C1624 for adhesion and mechanical failure modes of hard ceramic coatings, ISO 27307 for transverse scratch testing of thermally sprayed ceramic layers, and ASTM G171 for scratch hardness determination. Typical applications include thin, hard ceramic and technical coatings from roughly 0.1 to 30 µm — carbide, nitride and oxide coatings, DLC, PVD and PACVD layers, and hard chrome.
Engineered for Repeatable, Traceable Results
Features include:
- 8-position motorized tool changer accommodating up to three scratch test modules and up to seven lenses, so overview, detailed inspection, and Lc determination occur on a single axis without offset
- Dual Z-axis vertical concept: rapid approach at up to 30 mm/s plus a high-resolution positioning axis for precise force application and focusing
- Precise electronic load control keeping the test load controlled, reproducible, and traceable throughout the scratch
- QATM-developed optic system with Koehler illumination, white LED light, and motorized aperture shuttering, meeting the test system definition requirements of DIN EN ISO 6507-1/2:2018
- In-system visual inspection of the diamond stylus before or after testing, supporting traceable test conditions
- Collision Avoiding System (CAS) using predictive 3D motion calculations to protect mechanical components.
A Guided Scratch Workflow in QpixControl2
QpixControl2 pairs a patented 3D user concept with an end-to-end scratch workflow: the sample holder moves automatically to the correct height, the operator positions the scratch start point by drag and drop, and the test sequence runs automatically to standard. Graphical templates guide consistent Lc classification to reduce room for interpretation, while the force/distance curve documents the applied load along the track for comparison against visible failure events. Test parameters, scratch track imagery, Lc values, and evaluation results compile into a standardized report, with export via Qconnect to PDF, XML, CSV, Q-DAS, LIMS, OPC UA, and ERP systems.
The Qscratch 20 can be configured as a stand-alone scratch testing system or integrated as an add-on module to QATM hardness testing platforms, giving users flexibility based on their current equipment and testing requirements.
The Qscratch 20 is part of a modular QATM platform shared with the Qness 60 A+ EVO. An optional hardness upgrade adds Vickers, Knoop, Brinell, and Rockwell testing within the same software environment, and optional Qpix Inspect modules add coating thickness measurement by crater-grinding (DIN EN ISO 26423), Rockwell adhesion testing of ceramic coatings (DIN EN ISO 26443), phase analysis, grain size, and weld seam evaluation. All QpixControl2 systems connect to the Verder Scientific IoT platform for real-time monitoring, live notifications, backup, and automatic software updates.
Technical Data
Here are the parameter specifications:
- Test force range: 0.5 – 200 N (0.5 N and 1 N > 1% accuracy)
- Load modes: Constant and progressive; single and multiple measurements
- Standards supported: DIN EN ISO 20502, ASTM C1624, ISO 27307, ASTM G171
- Tool positions: 8-fold motorized tool changer (max. 7 lenses)
- Basic equipment included: Rockwell diamond; 5x, 20x, 50x lenses
- Axes: Motorized X/Y cross slide; dual Z-axis concept, Z travel 150 mm (5.91 in)
- Traverse path: X 150 mm, Y 150 mm (5.91 x 5.91 in)
- Positioning accuracy: X/Y-axis +/- 0.2 µm
- Table size: 150 x 120 mm (5.91 x 4.72 in)
- Sample image camera: 5 MP CMOS color, USB 3.0; field of view 52 x 39 mm (2.05 x 1.54 in)
- workpiece weight: 50 kg (110 lbs)
- Weight of basic device: 60 kg (132.3 lbs)
- Options: Hardness upgrade (Vickers, Knoop, Brinell, Rockwell); Qpix Inspect modules
The Qscratch 20 is available now in North America through Verder Scientific, Inc. Full product details, specifications, and downloads are at qatm.com/products/surface-coatings-testing/scratch-testers/qscratch-20. Labs can also configure a system, request a quote, or schedule a product demonstration.
QATM (ATM Qness GmbH) develops and manufactures equipment for materialography and hardness testing, including cutting, mounting, grinding and polishing, hardness testing, and surface and coating testing systems. QATM combines many years of experience in hardness testing and metallography with global service to support long-term investment security. QATM is part of Verder Scientific. Learn more at www.qatm.com.
Verder Scientific is composed of leading laboratory equipment companies active in sample preparation and subsequent analysis for quality control as well as research & development purposes. As a trusted solution partner, Verder Scientific enables thousands of companies to ensure economic, technological, and environmental progress by mastering their scientific applications. Together, we make the world a healthier, safer and more sustainable place. Its brands include Retsch, Microtrac, Eltra, QATM, Carbolite, and Erweka.
Visit www.qatm.com.
