QATM Qscratch 20

QATM Qscratch 20

The Qscratch 20 is a fully automatic macro/micro scratch tester for quality control of coatings, functional surfaces, and critical loads. The system combines controlled force application, precise electronic load control, integrated optical evaluation, and guided operation in QpixControl2. This enables reproducible scratch testing with progressive or constant load, including structured evaluation, documentation, and reporting.

Qscratch 20

With motorized X/Y/Z axes, single and multiple measurements, and an 8-position automatic tool changer, the Qscratch 20 is designed for laboratories that need reliable surface-related decisions every day. It supports scratch tests according to standards such as DIN EN ISO 20502, ASTM C1624, ISO 27307, and ASTM G171. Optional Vickers hardness testing and Qpix Inspect analysis modules make the system a flexible platform for coating evaluation, surface testing, and quality assurance.

Product Advantages

  • Fully automatic macro/micro scratch tester for coatings and surfaces
  • Single and multiple measurements for efficient test series
  • Electronic force control with a test force range of 0.5–200 N
  • Constant and progressive load for standards compliant scratch testing
  • 8-position automatic tool changer for test modules and lenses
  • Motorized X/Y/Z axes with precise positioning
  • QpixControl2 software with guided scratch workflow
  • Optional hardness upgrade and Qpix Inspect analysis functions

Test Methods & Force Range

Method: Progressive load

Method: Constant load

The initial and final loads, as well as the load rate, are defined. The load increases along the scratch length; visible events can be assigned as Lc points at their respective positions.
ISO: PFST – progressive force scratch test
ASTM: PL – progressive load
Lc: Load critical
The normal force remains constant over the scratch length. This method is suitable for individual measurements, series compa-risons, and recurring test conditions in a quality control setting.
ISO: CFST – constant force scratch test
ASTM: CL – constant load
Lc: Load critical

More information:

https://www.qatm.com/products/surface-coatings-testing/scratch-testers/qscratch-20/

Test methods

Progressive or constant load – tailored to the test requirements

Standards & Procedures

DIN EN ISO 20502 / ASTM C1624 – Determination of adhesion and mechanical failure modes of hard ceramic coatings using a scratch test.

ISO 27307 – Evaluation of the adhesion and cohesion of thermally sprayed ceramic layers on a cross-section using a transverse scratch test.

ASTM G171 – Determination of the scratch hardness of material surfaces using a defined diamond stylus, a constant normal force, and evaluation of the remaining scratch width.

For laboratories that make critical decision every day

Qscratch 20 is a automated macro/micro scratch tester for coatings and functional surfaces. The system combines controlled force application, integrated optical evaluation, and guided software operation and a report generation. It was developed specifically for laboratories that make critical surface-related decisions on a daily basis.

Practical quality assurance & integrated workflows

Designed for quality assurance: The system combines standardized scratch tests with high repeatability, efficient documentation, and intuitive operation. QpixControl2, the integrated workflow, flexible export options, and optional inspection functions turn it into a powerful, all-in-one solution rather than a simple stand-alone tester.

Long-term investment security through QATM expertise

QATM brings many years of experience in hardness testing, metallography, and global service to its scratch testing portfolio, thereby safeguarding your investment in the long term.

 

Test force range 0.5* – 200 N
Constant load Single measurements
Progressive load Single measurements
Z-axis Z 150 mm (5.91″)
Tool positions 8-fold motorized tool changer (max. 7 lenses)
Included basic equipment Rockwell diamond; 5x, 20x, 50x Lenses
Lens types Standard (Achromat) for hardness testing and microscopy
Sample image camera 5 Mpixel – CMOS color, USB 3.0; 52 x 39 mm (2.05 x 1.54″)
Cross slide Motorized X/Y axis
Table size 150 x 120 mm (5.91 x 4.72″)
Positioning accuracy X/Y-axis +/- 0.2 µm
Traverse path X 150, Y 150 mm (5.91 x 5.91″)
Control elements Emergency stop, Start button, Joystick X/Y/Z
Max. workpiece weight 50 kg (110 lbs)
Weight of basic device 60 kg (132.3 lbs)
Optional Hardness Upgrade and Qpix Inspect Module

* 0.5 N and 1 N > 1% accuracy