Reliability Lab Manager Tom Sneath sat down to share the challenges the commercial space industry faces today and discuss some of the critical tests ARL performs for those in the commercial space industry.

Today’s tough economy makes it hard to keep experts on hand for every service that may conceivably be needed. ARL’s On-Site Staffing Services are here to get you through those periods where you need help, but can’t afford the expense of a full-time employee.

ARL’s Reliability Testing Services are performed by knowledgeable technical staff who will provide you with quick, reliable and cost-effective consultation, execution and reporting. Our facilities allow us to perform a wide range of standard testing that meets established benchmarks in a variety of industries. We also recognize that the test doesn’t end when the data is gathered.

This week we’re introducing the Rockwell Hardness Test, ASTM D785-08. A material’s Rockwell hardness number is calculated from the “net increase in depth impression as the load on an indenter is increased from a fixed minor load to a major load and then returned to a minor load.” Knowing this characteristic is a must for any product destined for harsh environments such as aerospace, automotive, packaging, dental/medical, construction, wearables, and jigs/fixtures.

There is more to a lab than just hardware. A lab is governed by human expertise and experience. Through our Consulting Services, we are committed to working with you to create solid test strategies for your product while freeing up your valuable engineering staff to focus on their core competencies and new product development rather than bogging them down with reliability planning.