i3D^® Indentation Method per DIN SPEC 4864

The standardized i3D^® indentation method is a modern alternative to conventional tensile testing. Key mechanical properties — yield strength R^I_p0.2, ultimate tensile strength R^I_m, and plastic flow curves — are determined directly on the component surface, with minimal specimen preparation.

Test workflow

1. Create the test impression: A force-controlled indenter penetrates the metallic surface orthogonally — minimal damage, highly localized.

2. 3D measurement: White-light interferometry captures the impression in high lateral and vertical resolution.

3. Inverse FEM evaluation: An optimization algorithm compares the measured impression geometry with FEM simulations to determine the material’s flow curve.

4. Material properties: The resulting engineering stress–strain curve provides R^I_p0.2, R^I_m, ductility, and more — analogous to tensile testing.

Advantages at a glance

• Fast: ~60 seconds per impression
• Minimal preparation: test directly on the component
• Accurate: typically within approx. ±2% to ±10% of tensile testing
• Repeatable: assured via fully automated testing
• Industry 4.0-ready: ideal for serial testing and automation

Comparison with tensile testing

Extensive studies comparing i3D^® indentation with conventional tensile tests show deviations commonly below 5%, while cutting test costs by up to 90% and significantly reducing total test time.

This makes i3D^® the perfect fit for modern, data-driven materials development, process monitoring, and quality assurance — in the lab or right on the production floor.

Looking for flow-curve input for CAE? See our FEM simulation application. Curious about savings vs. tensile tests? View the cost comparison.

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