A metal impact test is a destructive material test that determines the energy absorbed in breaking a test component by high velocity impact. Depending on the method of generating impact force, you can opt for Charpy, Izod or drop weight testing. Metal impact testers come in different models, each of which conducts at least one particular type of impact test.

You can buy a new or used metal impact tester for a long-term testing requirement. For a short-term requirement, either try leasing a metal impact tester or opt for metal testing laboratories that provide metal impact testing services.

Some important parameters you must consider before purchasing a metal impact tester are:

1. Material of the component
2. Type of metal impact test: Charpy, Izod or drop weight
3. Test parameters such as maximum force and dimension of the component

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Buy metal impact testers from reputable manufacturers

Once you understand your metal impact testing requirements, evaluate different industrial metal impact testers available on the market.

I recommend: Tinius Olsen, a reputable test equipment manufacturer, provides metal impact testing equipment that conducts Charpy and Izod impact tests. You can buy metal impact test equipment at Zwick, a dynamic test systems supplier. Testing Machines offers various testing equipment including metal impact testing machines. Additionally, you can check out metal impact testers offered by QUALITEST, a reputable metal testing devices supplier.

Purchase metal impact testers from a reputable distributor or retailer

You can compare different metal impact testers based on their features and prices at retailers or distributors' websites.

I recommend: Paul N. Gardner Company, a distributor of physical test equipment, supplies a range of impact testers, including metal impact testers. LabX.com is another source that sells metal impact testers. Frank Bacon Machinery Sales provides used testing and inspection equipment including metal impact testers.

Check out metal impact testing services provided by reputable metal testing laboratories

Evaluate metal impact testing services offered by reputable metal testing laboratories and companies.

I recommend: St. Louis Testing Laboratories, a testing and analysis laboratory, can conduct Charpy or Izod tests as per your requirements. Westmoreland Mechanical Testing & Research provides metal impact testing services for various industries such as aerospace, nuclear and automotive. Bodycote International offers mechanical testing services, including metal impact testing.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Before conducting metal impact testing, teach your employees about the required safety measures.
• •  Consult an expert if you are conducting the metal impact test at a temperature other than the actual operating temperature of the component, as temperature variation affects the properties of metal.
• •  Ensure that the impact metal testers have an ergonomically safe design and do not cause fatigue to the operator.