Single-step calibration method for nano indentation testing machines

See our publication: M. Galetto, G. Genta, G. Maculotti. Single-step calibration method for nano indentation testing machines (945.76 kB). Published on: CIRP ANNALS - MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY. DOI: 10.1016/j.cirp.2020.03.015

Nano indentation is an effective method for materials mechanical characterisation at grain scale. Literature underlined relevance of testing machine calibration to measurement uncertainty of the mechanical characterisation. ISO 14577-2 defines multi-step iterative methods for calibrating frame compliance and indenter area function that do not require high-resolution microscopes. Previous research demonstrated that standard’s recommendations are unsatisfactory and result in high calibration uncertainty. This work defines an improved calibration method based on a single-step procedure that achieves, as proved by experimental tests, definite advantages in terms of implementation and measurement uncertainty of both calibration and mechanical characterisation with respect to current procedures.