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Cutlery and Metal Marking Tests

This test is carried out on a new piece of ceramics. It doesn't comply to any official standard, but is used by some of the ceramics test labs.
It may also optionally be carried out after a 32 hour soak in dishwasher detergent, as exposure to dishwasher detergent can notably increase susceptibility to cutlery marking.
Tests are made with 3mm diameter balls of the following metals:

  • martensitic steel (used in knife blades, Vickers hardness 550 - 600, similar to a ceramic glaze)
  • ferritic or austenitic steel (used in forks and spoons, Vickers hardness 200 - 350)
  • aluminium

Test Procedure

  • Wash the piece with hand hot washing up liquid, rinse and dry with a tea towel
  • Set up the mark tester with an initial downwards weight of 10N (approx. 1kg)
  • Move it over the plate at a speed of 10mm/s for a distance of 10 - 60 mm
  • Visually check for any marking or damage
  • Increase in steps of 5N weight, up to 40N
  • If marking occurs, note if it can be removed using a cloth and hand hot dishwashing liquid


Can we modify an old turntable to make a test rig?