Cutlery and Metal Marking Tests

This test is carried out on a new piece of ceramics.
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?