The Qscratch 20 GO is a semi-automatic macro/micro scratch tester for standardized quality control of coatings and surfaces. It is designed for laboratories that require defined scratch tests, reliable operation, and traceable results – especially for single measurements with progressive or constant load.
The system combines a dynamically automated Z-axis, motorized Y-axis, electronic force control, and intuitive QpixControl2 software into a practical workflow for routine surface and coating testing. Scratch tests can be performed under controlled conditions, optically evaluated, and documented in structured test reports. The Qscratch 20 GO supports relevant standards including DIN EN ISO 20502, ASTM C1624, ISO 27307, and ASTM G171, making it a compact solution for production-oriented monitoring, routine testing, and reproducible scratch test results.
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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
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.
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.
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.
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.
The principle
In the scratch test, a diamond stylus is moved across the coated surface under a defined normal force. Visible events such as cracking, spalling, or penetration of the coating are localized along the scratch mark and assigned to the corresponding critical load. Thus, the scratch mark not only indicates that a failure is occurring; it also shows where it is occurring—and makes the load at the critical point traceable.
Lc1 - Initial cracking / plastic deformation
Lc2 - Spalling
Lc3 - Penetration of the coating down to the substrate
The following interactive section shows how typical failure events along the scratch track are analyzed. Click on the LC points to see how cracking, spalling, and coating penetration are associated with specific positions and loads.
The QATM-developed, in-house manufactured lens system sets new standards. As well as providing crystal clear image quality for hardness testing, Koehler illumination uses white LED light and motor-operated aperture shuttering to produce ideal contrast, even for high magnification images.
Experienced metallurgists agree the image quality provided by the Qscratch is comparable in all aspects with that of established sophisticated microscopes. The up-to-date concept and new lenses in the optic system enable the device to completely meet even the strictest physical ‘test system definition’ requirements in compliance with DIN EN ISO6507-1/2:2018.
The motorized tool changer can accommodate up to three scratch test modules and up to seven lenses. This allows for overview, detailed inspection, and Lc determination to be performed directly within the scratch test sequence—on a single axis and without offset.
There are decisive benefits in distributing vertical movement across 2 axes. Via the first Z-axis there is dynamic motion control, allowing the indenter to be positioned towards the test surface quickly and conveniently at up to 30mm/s. The additional second Z-axis in the QATM system offers a high-resolution positioning system for greater precision in force application and focusing.
Innovative Collision Avoiding System (CAS) technology protects the mechanical parts in the device using predictive 3D motion calculations to visualize the effects of collisions and operation errors.
The digital caliper is compatible with the Qpix Control2 system and reads the dimensions, height and diameter of components wirelessly and at the push of a button, entering them into the software. The test head height control in the A+ hardness tester enables the test height to be reached completely automatically with no need for manual input.
The illuminated QATM logo displays the current device status at a glance. The range of flash intervals indicates whether the device is operating automatically or is free to be used for new tasks for staff all around the lab. In addition, the LED test space lighting, installed as standard, ensures that samples and sample holders are positioned correctly.
On the Qscratch 20, it also ensures uniform light intensity for sample imaging.
Precise electronic load control ensures that the test load—as a critical test parameter—remains controlled, reproducible, and traceable at all times.
The selected loading logic is linked to the scratch mark, position, and result. Methods can be applied to sample series, coating variants, and process comparisons.
Adjustable clamping jaws allow for the secure holding of various specimen geometries - from flat and angular test pieces to round or very small specimens.
The optional manual X-axis slide shifts the sample laterally, enabling multiple scratch tracks on one specimen – ideal for comparisons and small test series.
QpixControl2 is more than just a user interface: The software combines a patented 3D user concept with a seamless scratch workflow. Tests can be easily created, scratch marks visually positioned, single measurements processed automatically, and relevant Lc events evaluated in a structured manner. From test definition through image capture and evaluation to data management, export, and standardized reporting, all steps remain integrated within an intuitive software environment. This reduces operational effort, supports reproducible processes, and enables the efficient use of scratch testing in production-oriented quality assurance.
The sample holder is automatically moved to the correct height, and the sample image is automatically captured.
Drag and drop the starting point of the scratch test directly to the desired position.
The test sequence is fully automatically and in accordance with the Scratch test standards. Subsequently, the failure events can be evaluated and assigned to the respective Lc points.
Single or multiple measurements: Scratch marks can be positioned directly in the software, created with a defined offset, and processed automatically. The Lc results are evaluated for each test as well as as a series mean.
Load definition, crack length, load rate, speed, and lens selection are managed directly within the method. For evaluation, standardbased templates or custom templates can be used and supplemented with limit and target values.
Graphical templates support the consistent classification of typical failure events. This facilitates standard-based procedures and reduces room for interpretation.
The force-distance curve documents the applied load along the scratch track. Anomalies in the curve can be compared with visible failure events and used for Lc evaluation
Relevant failure events along the scratch track can be viewed in detail in the image and assigned to the corresponding Lc details. This transforms the visual assessment into a verifiable test result
Test parameters, scratch track, Lc values and evaluation results are compiled into a test report. This simplifies documentation, the comparison of test series, and the dissemination of results within the quality process.
The optional Qpix Inspect modules expand the Qscratch 20 with practical functions for coating evaluation. Crater-grinding supports microscopic coating thickness measurement in accordance with DIN EN ISO 26423, while the Rockwell adhesion test enables qualitative adhesion evaluation of ceramic coatings in accordance with DIN EN ISO 26443. This allows additional information on coating quality to be captured, evaluated, and documented directly within the familiar QpixControl2 software environment.
Crater-grinding method for microscopic coating thickness determination as supplementary information for coating evaluation in accordance with DIN EN ISO 26423.
Rockwell indentation test for qualitative adhesion evaluation of ceramic coatings in accordance with DIN EN ISO 26443.
The intuitive and user-friendly Qpix INSPECT software functionality provides a comprehensive toolbox for microscopic evaluations and result documentation. The multifunctional software can be customized for customer-specific measuring tasks and complemented with add-on modules.
All QATM hardness testers with QpixControl2 and QpixT2 software seamlessly integrate into the Verder Scientific IoT platform, providing enhanced functionality and seamless connectivity.
Qconnect is the interface in QATM Qpix Control2 software, providing customers with a full portfolio of inter-device connectivity - from serial production, open XML interfaces (bi-directional) and pre-specified plug-in solutions, such as the QDAS Plug-In+, through to customer-specific connectivity solutions implemented completely by QATM. We have a professional solution for every applicational requirement.
Available functionalities & formats:
REPORT, PRINT, PDF, XML IE, CSV, TXT, WORD, EXCEL, AUTO EXPORTER, MAIL, Q-DAS, AMS IE, IOT, LIMS, OPCUA, PCI IE (ERP, BABTEC, ORACLE, SAP)
Test results, Lc results, scratch track information, and test parameters can be documented in a structured format and exported. Standardized test reports and flexible export options facilitate the transfer of results to quality assurance, documentation, or higher-level systems.
Qpix software platforms support the use of barcode and QR code readers, simplifying workflows for inspectors and preventing operator error. Populating header data is simple (standard), and readers can be fully integrated to automatically select templates or retrieve data from higher-level systems (optional).
The Qpix Control 2 software supports user login using an external NFC reader. Depending on the NFC tag/card, the customer‘s existing access cards can also be programmed in, for example.
| Test force range | 0.5* - 200 N |
| Constant load | Single measurements |
| Progressive load | Single measurements |
| Z-axis | Dynamic, automated (CAS-Technic), Travelling distance Z 150 mm (5.91“) |
| Tool positions | 8-fold motorized tool changer (max. 3 testing modules, max. 7 lenses) |
| Included basic equipment | Rockwell diamond; 20x, 50x Lenses |
| Lens types | Standard (Achromat) and High Quality (Semi-apochromat) for hardness testing and microscopy |
| Sample image camera | - |
| Cross slide | Motorized Y axis |
| Table size | 150 x 120 mm (5.91 x 4.72") |
| Positioning accuracy | Y-axis +/- 0.2 µm |
| Traverse path | Y 150 mm (5.91") |
| Control elements | Emergency stop, Start button, Joystick Y/Z |
| Max. workpiece weight | 50 kg (110 lbs) |
| Weight of basic device | 58 kg (127.9 lbs) |
| Optional | Qpix Inspect Module |
* 0.5 N and 1 N > 1% accuracy
