This part of ISO 9015 specifies microhardness tests on transverse sections of welded joints of metallic materials with high hardness gradients. It covers Vickers hardness tests in accordance with ISO 6507-1, normally with test loads of 0,98 N to less than 49 N (HV 0,1 to less than HV 5). NOTE Testing should be carried out to ensure that the highest and/or the lowest level of hardness of both parent materials (in the case of dissimilar materials both parent materials) and weld metal is determined. This part of ISO 9015 does not cover hardness testing of welds with loads of 49,03 N and above, covered by ISO 9015-1. This part of ISO 9015 is not applicable to hardness testing of very narrow welds, e.g. those typically produced by laser and electron beam welding, covered by ISO 22826.