---
title: "ASTM D3363 — Citation Detail"
description: >-
  Simple, rapid scratch-hardness test for organic coatings using calibrated drawing pencils (6B softest through 9H hardest). The hardest pencil that does NOT mar 
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last_modified: 2026-05-24
---

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## Abstract

Simple, rapid scratch-hardness test for organic coatings using calibrated drawing pencils (6B softest through 9H hardest). The hardest pencil that does NOT mar the coating defines the film hardness rating. Used widely for powder coat QC where Taber abrasion is impractical for production-floor screening. Typical architectural powder coatings rate 2H or harder.

## Source details

- **Type:** Standard
- **Year:** 2005
- **Edition:** Reapproved 2020
- **Issuer / Authors:** ASTM International
- **Official source:** <https://www.astm.org/standards/d3363>
- **Access:** Paywalled via ASTM Compass
- **Last verified:** 2026-05-21