
The Elcometer 3095 Buchholz Hardness Tester (part number K0003095M001) measures a coating's hardness by the indentation method, using a bevelled disc indenting tool fitted into a stainless steel block that exerts a constant test load of 500g.
Where scratch tests draw a tip across the surface, the Buchholz method presses a fixed load into the coating for a set time and measures the mark left behind, giving a repeatable indication of how a coating resists permanent deformation. The Elcometer 3095 Buchholz Hardness Tester is placed onto the coating and removed after 30 seconds. The length of the indentation is then measured with the supplied graduated microscope, and the result is expressed in units of Buchholz Indentation Resistance using the scale provided.
The instrument is supplied with the indentation tool and its two locating pins, an illuminated x20 microscope, an indentation locator template, a pin adjusting shim and a hexagonal wrench, all stored in a plastic carry case with operation instructions. It measures 360 x 310 x 120mm and weighs 2.9kg. The Elcometer 3095 can be used in accordance with BS 3900 E9, DIN 53153, ECCA T12, EN ISO NF 2815 and NF T 30-052, the recognised standards for Buchholz indentation testing of paints and varnishes. It is used in coatings laboratories and coil coating quality control, and is supplied by BAMR, South Africa's authorised Elcometer distributor.
Elcometer 3095 Buchholz Hardness Tester
Measuring a coating's hardness using the indentation method, the Elcometer 3095 Buchholz Hardness Tester consists of a bevelled disc indenting tool which is fitted into a stainless steel block exerting a constant test load of 500g.
- Indentation method measurement Uses a bevelled disc indenting tool fitted into a stainless steel block exerting a constant test load of 500g
- Graduated microscope Measurement of indentation length in the coating
- Buchholz Indentation Resistance scale Results expressed as units of Buchholz Indentation Resistance using the scale provided
- Includes indentation tool with bevelled disc and two locating pins
- Includes illuminated x20 microscope
- Includes indentation locator template
- Includes pin adjusting shim
- Includes hexagonal wrench
- Plastic carry case for storage
- Operation instructions provided
When to use the Elcometer 3095 Buchholz Hardness Tester
Use the Elcometer 3095 when your coating spec calls for Buchholz indentation hardness. A bevelled disc indents the film under a constant 500g load, and the length of the indentation is read under the supplied x20 microscope and converted to a Buchholz Indentation Resistance value.
- 1Fixed 500g load takes operator pressure outA bevelled disc in a stainless steel block applies a constant 500g, so the only variable left is the coating itself rather than how hard the operator pressed.
- 2Microscope turns the mark into a numberThe illuminated x20 microscope measures the indentation length directly, which is what converts a visible mark into a repeatable Buchholz Indentation Resistance value.
- 3Conforms to the Buchholz standardsIt meets BS 3900 E9, DIN 53153, ECCA T12, EN ISO NF 2815 and NF T 30-052, so the result satisfies specs written around the Buchholz method.
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When to use this
When to use the Elcometer 3095 Buchholz Hardness Tester
Use the Elcometer 3095 when your coating spec calls for Buchholz indentation hardness. A bevelled disc indents the film under a constant 500g load, and the length of the indentation is read under the supplied x20 microscope and converted to a Buchholz Indentation Resistance value.
- 1Fixed 500g load takes operator pressure outA bevelled disc in a stainless steel block applies a constant 500g, so the only variable left is the coating itself rather than how hard the operator pressed.
- 2Microscope turns the mark into a numberThe illuminated x20 microscope measures the indentation length directly, which is what converts a visible mark into a repeatable Buchholz Indentation Resistance value.
- 3Conforms to the Buchholz standardsIt meets BS 3900 E9, DIN 53153, ECCA T12, EN ISO NF 2815 and NF T 30-052, so the result satisfies specs written around the Buchholz method.
Lower-budget alternatives


Ten minutes on a call with one of our specialists usually saves you from buying the wrong instrument.
Book a 10-minute callOr , our product assistant, for an instant answer.
Specifications
Specifications
| Part Number | Description | Certificate |
|---|---|---|
| K0003095M001 | Elcometer 3095 Buchholz Hardness Tester | ο |
| Dimensions | 360 x 310 x 120mm | |
| Weight | 2.9kg |
Packing List
Packing List
Standards
Standards
Accessories
Accessories
| KT003095P001 | Spare Pin Supports (x2) |
| KT003095P002 | Bevelled Hardened Steel Disc Indenter |
Downloads
Videos
Videos
Frequently asked questions
What hardness measurement method does the Elcometer 3095 use?
It uses the indentation method. A bevelled disc indenting tool fitted into a stainless steel block exerts a constant test load of 500g onto the coating.
Is a calibration certificate available for the Elcometer 3095?
Yes, an optional calibration certificate is available for the Elcometer 3095 Buchholz Hardness Tester (K0003095M001).
What are the dimensions and weight of the Elcometer 3095?
The instrument measures 360 x 310 x 120mm and weighs 2.9kg.
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