What type of equipment is used for hardness testing as part of a Procedure Qualification Record (PQR)?

For hardness testing as part of a Procedure Qualification Record (PQR), laboratory equipment is the most appropriate choice. This is because hardness testing typically requires precise and controlled conditions that are best provided in a laboratory environment. Standard methods for determining hardness, such as Rockwell, Brinell, or Vickers tests, often involve specific setups and adherence to established testing procedures.

Laboratory equipment ensures accuracy and repeatability, which are essential for validating a welding procedure. Such equipment is calibrated and maintained to meet industrial standards, giving reliable results that can be documented in the PQR process. In contrast, other options, such as field inspection tools or portable hardness testers, may be subjected to environmental variations and may not provide the same level of control and precision, which is critical when establishing a welding procedure's integrity and performance capabilities.