HARDNESS CLASSES
What Is HRC?
HRC is the Rockwell C hardness scale. In metalworking it commonly describes the hardness condition of the workpiece.
Educational technical guide · Values must be confirmed for the actual application
What does an HRC value tell you?
Rockwell testing compares indentation depth under a controlled load. It helps compare surface hardness, but it does not by itself define machinability or the correct cutting conditions. Alloy, heat treatment and the operation must also be considered.
HRC55, HRC60 and HRC65 on a tool family
These labels identify the intended application and hardness group of a catalogue family. They are not a universal performance guarantee or a precise limit for every material. A higher HRC label is not automatically the better choice for every operation.
Selection checklist
- Confirm the material standard and actual workpiece hardness.
- Identify whether the operation is roughing, semi-finishing or finishing.
- Choose the required end profile: square, corner radius or form cutter.
- Evaluate coating, flute count, clamping and machine rigidity together.
Find the right product for your application
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