ASTM A609/A609M-12(2018)
(Practice)Standard Practice for Castings, Carbon, Low-Alloy, and Martensitic Stainless Steel, Ultrasonic Examination Thereof
Standard Practice for Castings, Carbon, Low-Alloy, and Martensitic Stainless Steel, Ultrasonic Examination Thereof
ABSTRACT
This test method deals with the procedures for the standard practice of performing pulse-echo ultrasonic examination of heat-treated carbon, low-alloy, and martensitic stainless steel castings by the longitudinal-beam technique. Calibration shall be executed by either flat-bottomed hole or back-wall reflection. The instrument to be used for examination shall be the ultrasonic, pulsed, reflection type. Personnel and equipment qualifications, materials preparation, casting and test conditions, data recording methods, and the acceptance standards for both types of testing procedure are all detailed thoroughly.
SCOPE
1.1 This practice2 covers the standards and procedures for the pulse-echo ultrasonic examination of heat-treated carbon, low-alloy, and martensitic stainless steel castings.
1.2 This practice is to be used whenever the inquiry, contract, order, or specification states that castings are to be subjected to ultrasonic examination in accordance with Practice A609/A609M.
1.3 This practice contains two procedures. Procedure A is the original A609/A609M practice and requires calibration using a series of test blocks containing flat-bottomed holes. It also provides supplementary requirements for angle beam testing. Procedure B requires calibration using a back wall reflection from a series of solid calibration blocks.
Note 1: Ultrasonic examination and radiography are not directly comparable. This examination technique is intended to complement Guide E94/E94M in the detection of discontinuities.
1.4 Supplementary requirements of an optional nature are provided for use at the option of the purchaser. The supplementary requirements shall apply only when specified individually by the purchaser in the purchase order or contract.
1.5 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in nonconformance with the standard.
1.5.1 Within the text, the SI units are shown in brackets.
1.5.2 This practice is expressed in both inch-pound units and SI units; however, unless the purchase order or contract specifies the applicable M-specification designation (SI units), the inch-pound units shall apply.
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.7 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
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This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: A609/A609M −12 (Reapproved 2018)
Standard Practice for
Castings, Carbon, Low-Alloy, and Martensitic Stainless
Steel, Ultrasonic Examination Thereof
This standard is issued under the fixed designationA609/A609M; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year
of original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision.Anumber in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval.
A superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.
1. Scope* 1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the
2 safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
1.1 This practice covers the standards and procedures for
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
the pulse-echo ultrasonic examination of heat-treated carbon,
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
low-alloy, and martensitic stainless steel castings.
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.2 This practice is to be used whenever the inquiry,
1.7 This international standard was developed in accor-
contract, order, or specification states that castings are to be
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
subjected to ultrasonic examination in accordance with Prac-
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
tice A609/A609M.
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
1.3 This practice contains two procedures. Procedure A is
the original A609/A609M practice and requires calibration Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
using a series of test blocks containing flat-bottomed holes. It
also provides supplementary requirements for angle beam 2. Referenced Documents
testing. Procedure B requires calibration using a back wall
2.1 ASTM Standards:
reflection from a series of solid calibration blocks.
A217/A217MSpecification for Steel Castings, Martensitic
Stainless and Alloy, for Pressure-Containing Parts, Suit-
NOTE 1—Ultrasonic examination and radiography are not directly
comparable.ThisexaminationtechniqueisintendedtocomplementGuide
able for High-Temperature Service
E94/E94M in the detection of discontinuities.
E94/E94MGuide for Radiographic Examination Using In-
1.4 Supplementary requirements of an optional nature are dustrial Radiographic Film
provided for use at the option of the purchaser. The supple- E317PracticeforEvaluatingPerformanceCharacteristicsof
mentary requirements shall apply only when specified indi- Ultrasonic Pulse-Echo Testing Instruments and Systems
vidually by the purchaser in the purchase order or contract. without the Use of Electronic Measurement Instruments
2.2 Other Document:
1.5 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units
are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in SNT-TC-1A Recommended Practice for Nondestructive
Testing Personnel Qualification and Certification
each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each
system shall be used independently of the other. Combining
3. Ordering Information
values from the two systems may result in nonconformance
with the standard.
3.1 Theinquiryandordershouldspecifywhichprocedureis
1.5.1 Within the text, the SI units are shown in brackets.
tobeused.Ifaprocedureisnotspecified,ProcedureAshallbe
1.5.2 This practice is expressed in both inch-pound units
used.
and SI units; however, unless the purchase order or contract
3.2 The purchaser shall furnish the following information:
specifies the applicable M-specification designation (SI units),
3.2.1 Quality levels for the entire casting or portions
the inch-pound units shall apply.
thereof,
This practice is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee A01 on Steel,
Stainless Steel and RelatedAlloysand is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee
A01.18 on Castings. For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Current edition approved March 1, 2018. Published March 2018. Originally contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
approved in 1970. Last previous edition approved in 2012 as A609/A609M–12. Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
DOI: 10.1520/A0609_A0609M-12R18. the ASTM website.
2 4
For ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code applications, see related Specifi- AvailablefromAmericanSocietyforNondestructiveTesting(ASNT),P.O.Box
cation SA-609 of Section II of that Code. 28518, 1711 Arlingate Ln., Columbus, OH 43228-0518, http://www.asnt.org.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
A609/A609M − 12 (2018)
3.2.2 Sections of castings requiring longitudinal beam
examination,
3.2.3 Sections of castings requiring dual element
examination,
3.2.4 Sections of castings requiring supplementary
examination, using the angle beam procedure described in
Supplementary Requirement S1 in order to achieve more
complete examination, and
3.2.5 Any requirements additional to the provisions of this
practice.
PROCEDURE A – FLAT-BOTTOMED HOLE
CALIBRATION PROCEDURE
4. Apparatus
4.1 Electronic Apparatus:
4.1.1 An ultrasonic, pulsed, reflection type of instrument
that is capable of generating, receiving, and amplifying fre-
quencies of at least 0.5 to 5 MHz.
4.1.2 The ultrasonic instrument shall provide linear presen-
tation (within 65%) for at least 75% of the screen height
(sweep line to top of screen). Linearity shall be determined in NOTE 1—Opposite ends of reference block shall be flat and parallel
within 0.001 in. [0.025 mm].
accordance with Practice E317 or equivalent electronic means.
NOTE 2—Bottom of flat-bottom hole shall be flat within 0.002 in.
4.1.3 The electronic apparatus shall contain a signal attenu-
[0.051mm]andthefinisheddiametershallbe ⁄4+0.002in.[6.4+0.050].
ator or calibrated gain control that shall be accurate over its
NOTE 3—Hole shall be straight and perpendicular to entry surface
useful range to 610% of the nominal attenuation or gain ratio
within 0°, 30 min and located within ⁄32 in. [0.80 mm] of longitudinal
toallowmeasurementofsignalsbeyondthelinearrangeofthe
axis.
1 1
instrument.
NOTE 4—Counter bore shall be ⁄2in. [15.0 mm] diameter by ⁄8 in.
[5mm] deep.
4.2 Search Units:
FIG. 1 Ultrasonic Standard Reference Block
4.2.1 Longitudinal Wave, internally grounded, having a ⁄2
to 1-in. [13 to 25-mm] diameter or 1-in. [25-mm] square
TABLE 1 Dimensions and Identification of Reference Blocks in
piezo-electric elements. Based on the signals-to-noise ratio of
the Basic Set (See Fig. 1)
the response pattern of the casting, a frequency in the range
Overall Width or Block
Metal
Hole Diameter
from 0.5 to 5 MHz shall be used. The background noise shall Length Diameter Identifi-
Distance
in ⁄64 ths, in.
A
(C),in. (D), min, cation
(B),in.
not exceed 25% of the distance amplitude correction curve
[mm]
[mm] [mm] in. [mm] Number
(DAC).Transducers shall be utilized at their rated frequencies.
16 [6.4] 1 [25] 1 ⁄4 [45] 2 [50] 16-0100
4.2.2 Dual Element,5-MHz, ⁄2by1in.[13by25mm],12°
16 [6.4] 2 [50] 2 ⁄4 [70] 2 [50] 16-0200
includedanglesearchunitsarerecommendedforsections1in. 16 [6.4] 3 [75] 3 ⁄4 [95] 2 [50] 16-0300
16 [6.4] 6 [150] 6 ⁄4 [170] 3 [75] 16-0600
[25 mm] and under.
16 [6.4] 10 [255] 10 ⁄4 [275] 4 [100] 16-1000
B
4.2.3 Other frequencies and sizes of search units may be 3
16 [6.4] B B + ⁄4 [B + 20] 5 [125] 16-B00
used for evaluating and pinpointing indications. A
Tolerance ± ⁄8 in. [3 mm].
B
Additional supplemental blocks for testing thickness greater than 10 in.
4.3 Reference Blocks:
[250 mm], see 4.3.3.
4.3.1 Referenceblockscontainingflat-bottomholesshallbe
used to establish test sensitivity in accordance with 8.2.
4.3.2 Reference blocks shall be made from cast steels that
give an acoustic response similar to the castings being exam-
4.3.5 Each reference block shall be permanently identified
ined.
alongthesideoftheblockindicatingthematerialandtheblock
4.3.3 The design of reference blocks shall be in accordance
identification.
withFig.1,andthebasicsetshallconsistofthoseblockslisted
4.4 Couplant—A suitable couplant having good wetting
in Table 1.When section thicknesses over 15 in. [380mm] are
characteristics shall be used between the search unit and
to be inspected, an additional block of the maximum test
examination surface. The same couplant shall be used for
thickness shall be made to supplement the basic set.
calibrations and examinations.
4.3.4 Machined blocks with ⁄32-in. [2.4-mm] diameter flat-
bottom holes at depths from the entry surface of ⁄8 in. [3 mm],
5. Personnel Requirements
1 1 3 3
⁄2 in. [13 mm], or ⁄2t and ⁄4 in. [19 mm], or ⁄4t (where t =
thickness of the block) shall be used to establish the DAC for 5.1 Personnel performing ultrasonic examination in accor-
the dual element search units (see Fig. 2). dance with this practice shall be qualified and certified in
A609/A609M − 12 (2018)
NOTE 1—Entrant surface shall be 250 µin. [6.3 µm] or finer.
NOTE2—The ⁄32-in.[2.4-mm]flat-bottomholemustbeflatwithin0.002in.[0.05mm].Diametermustbewithin+0.005in.[0.13mm]oftherequired
diameter. Hole axis must be perpendicular to the block and within an angle of 0°, 30 min.
NOTE 3—Hole shall be plugged following checking for ultrasonic response.
in. [mm] in. [mm]
1 1
⁄8 [3] 1 ⁄4 [32]
1 1
⁄4 [6] 1 ⁄2 [38]
1 3
⁄2 [13] 1 ⁄4 [44]
⁄4 [19.0] 2 [50]
1 [25] 10 [254]
FIG. 2 Ultrasonic Standard Reference Block for Dual-Search Unit Calibration
accordance with a written procedure conforming to Recom- 8.2 Usingthesetofreferenceblocksspanningthethickness
mended Practice No. SNT-TC-1Aor another national standard of the casting being inspected and overlays or electronic
acceptable to both the purchaser and the supplier.
markers,notetheflat-bottomholeindicationheightforeachof
the applicable blocks on the instrument screen. Draw a curve
6. Casting Conditions
through these marks on the screen or on suitable graph paper.
6.1 Castings shall receive at least an austenitizing heat
The maximum signal amplitude for the test blocks used shall
treatment before being ultrasonically examined.
peak at approximately three-fourths of the screen height above
the sweep by use of the attenuator.This curve shall be referred
6.2 Test surfaces of castings shall be free of material that
to as the 100% distance amplitude correction (DAC) curve. If
will interfere with the ultrasonic examination. They may be as
cast, blasted, ground, or machined. the attenuation of ultrasound in the casting thickness being
examinedissuchthatthesystem’sdynamicrangeisexceeded,
6.3 The ultrasonic examination shall be conducted prior to
segmented DAC curves are permitted.
machining that prevents an effective examination of the cast-
ing.
8.3 The casting examination surface will normally be
rougher than that of the test blocks; consequently, employ a
7. Test Conditions
transfer mechanism to provide approximate compensation. In
7.1 To ensure complete coverage of the specified casting
order to accomplish this, first select a region of the casting that
section, each pass of the search unit shall overlap by at least
has parallel walls and a surface condition representative of the
10% of the width of the transducer.
restofthecastingasatransferpoint.Next,selectthetestblock
7.2 Therateofscanningshallnotexceed6in./s[150mm/s].
whose overall length, C (Fig. 1), most closely matches the
reflection amplitude through the block length. Place the search
7.3 The ultrasonic beam shall be introduced perpendicular
unit on the casting at the transfer point and adjust the
to the examination surface.
instrument gain until the back reflection amplitude through the
8. Procedure
casting matches that through the test block. Using this transfer
technique, the examination sensitivity in the casting may be
8.1 Adjust the instrument controls to position the first back
reflection for the thickness to be tested at least one-half of the expected to be within 630% or less of that given by the test
distance across the instrument screen. blocks.
A609/A609M − 12 (2018)
TABLE 2 Rejection Level
8.4 Do not change those instrument controls and the test
frequency set during calibration, except the attenuator or
NOTE 1—The areas in the table refer to the surface area on the casting
calibrated gain control, during acceptance examination of a
overwhichacontinuousindicationexceedingtheamplitudereferenceline
or a continuous loss of back reflection of 75% or greater is maintained.
given thickness of the casting. Make a periodic calibration
during the inspection by checking the amplitude of response
NOTE 2—Areas shall be measured from the center of the search unit.
from the ⁄4-in. [6.4-mm] diameter flat-bottom hole in the test
NOTE 3—In certain castings, because of very long test distances or
block utilized for the transfer.
curvature of the test surface, the casting surface area over which a given
NOTE 2—The attenuator or calibrated gain control may be used to discontinuity is detected may be considerably larger or smaller than the
actualareaofthediscontinuityinthecasting;insuchcases,agraphicplot
changethesignalamplitudeduringexaminationtopermitsmallamplitude
signalstobemorereadilydetected.Signalevaluationismadebyreturning that incorporates a consideration of beam spread should be used for
realistic evaluation of the discontinuity.
the attenuator or calibrated gain control to its original setting.
2 2
Area, in. [cm ]
8.5 During examination of areas of the casting having
Ultrasonic Testing Length, max,
(see 10.2.1 and
Quality Level in. [mm]
parallel walls, recheck areas showing 75% or greater loss of
10.2.2)
back reflection to determine whether loss of back reflection is
1 0.8 [5] 1.5 [40]
due to poor contact, insufficient couplant, misoriented
2 1.5 [10] 2.2 [55]
3 3 [20] 3.0 [75]
discontinuity,etc.Ifthereasonforlossofbackreflectionisnot
4 5 [30] 3.9 [100]
evident, consider the area questionable and investigate further.
5 8 [50] 4.8 [120]
6 12 [80] 6.0 [150]
9. Report
7 16 [100] 6.9 [175]
9.1 The manufacturer’s report of final ultrasonic examina-
tion shall contain the following data and shall be furnished to
the purchaser:
10.2.4 Othercriteriaagreeduponbetweenthepurchaserand
9.1.1 The total number, location, amplitude, and area when
the manufacturer.
possible to delineate b
...
NOTICE: This standard has either been superseded and replaced by a new version or withdrawn.
Contact ASTM International (www.astm.org) for the latest information
Designation: A609/A609M − 12 (Reapproved 2018)
Standard Practice for
Castings, Carbon, Low-Alloy, and Martensitic Stainless
Steel, Ultrasonic Examination Thereof
This standard is issued under the fixed designation A609/A609M; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year
of original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval.
A superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.
1. Scope* 1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the
2 safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
1.1 This practice covers the standards and procedures for
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
the pulse-echo ultrasonic examination of heat-treated carbon,
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
low-alloy, and martensitic stainless steel castings.
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.2 This practice is to be used whenever the inquiry,
1.7 This international standard was developed in accor-
contract, order, or specification states that castings are to be
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
subjected to ultrasonic examination in accordance with Prac-
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
tice A609/A609M.
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
1.3 This practice contains two procedures. Procedure A is mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
the original A609/A609M practice and requires calibration
using a series of test blocks containing flat-bottomed holes. It
2. Referenced Documents
also provides supplementary requirements for angle beam
testing. Procedure B requires calibration using a back wall 3
2.1 ASTM Standards:
reflection from a series of solid calibration blocks.
A217/A217M Specification for Steel Castings, Martensitic
Stainless and Alloy, for Pressure-Containing Parts, Suit-
NOTE 1—Ultrasonic examination and radiography are not directly
comparable. This examination technique is intended to complement Guide able for High-Temperature Service
E94/E94M in the detection of discontinuities.
E94/E94M Guide for Radiographic Examination Using In-
dustrial Radiographic Film
1.4 Supplementary requirements of an optional nature are
provided for use at the option of the purchaser. The supple- E317 Practice for Evaluating Performance Characteristics of
mentary requirements shall apply only when specified indi- Ultrasonic Pulse-Echo Testing Instruments and Systems
vidually by the purchaser in the purchase order or contract. without the Use of Electronic Measurement Instruments
1.5 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units 2.2 Other Document:
SNT-TC-1A Recommended Practice for Nondestructive
are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in
each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each Testing Personnel Qualification and Certification
system shall be used independently of the other. Combining
values from the two systems may result in nonconformance 3. Ordering Information
with the standard.
3.1 The inquiry and order should specify which procedure is
1.5.1 Within the text, the SI units are shown in brackets.
to be used. If a procedure is not specified, Procedure A shall be
1.5.2 This practice is expressed in both inch-pound units
used.
and SI units; however, unless the purchase order or contract
3.2 The purchaser shall furnish the following information:
specifies the applicable M-specification designation (SI units),
3.2.1 Quality levels for the entire casting or portions
the inch-pound units shall apply.
thereof,
This practice is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee A01 on Steel,
Stainless Steel and Related Alloys and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee
A01.18 on Castings. For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Current edition approved March 1, 2018. Published March 2018. Originally contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
approved in 1970. Last previous edition approved in 2012 as A609/A609M – 12. Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
DOI: 10.1520/A0609_A0609M-12R18. the ASTM website.
2 4
For ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code applications, see related Specifi- Available from American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT), P.O. Box
cation SA-609 of Section II of that Code. 28518, 1711 Arlingate Ln., Columbus, OH 43228-0518, http://www.asnt.org.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
A609/A609M − 12 (2018)
3.2.2 Sections of castings requiring longitudinal beam
examination,
3.2.3 Sections of castings requiring dual element
examination,
3.2.4 Sections of castings requiring supplementary
examination, using the angle beam procedure described in
Supplementary Requirement S1 in order to achieve more
complete examination, and
3.2.5 Any requirements additional to the provisions of this
practice.
PROCEDURE A – FLAT-BOTTOMED HOLE
CALIBRATION PROCEDURE
4. Apparatus
4.1 Electronic Apparatus:
4.1.1 An ultrasonic, pulsed, reflection type of instrument
that is capable of generating, receiving, and amplifying fre-
quencies of at least 0.5 to 5 MHz.
4.1.2 The ultrasonic instrument shall provide linear presen-
tation (within 65 %) for at least 75 % of the screen height
(sweep line to top of screen). Linearity shall be determined in
NOTE 1—Opposite ends of reference block shall be flat and parallel
within 0.001 in. [0.025 mm].
accordance with Practice E317 or equivalent electronic means.
NOTE 2—Bottom of flat-bottom hole shall be flat within 0.002 in.
4.1.3 The electronic apparatus shall contain a signal attenu-
[0.051 mm] and the finished diameter shall be ⁄4 + 0.002 in. [6.4 + 0.050].
ator or calibrated gain control that shall be accurate over its
NOTE 3—Hole shall be straight and perpendicular to entry surface
useful range to 610 % of the nominal attenuation or gain ratio
within 0°, 30 min and located within ⁄32 in. [0.80 mm] of longitudinal
to allow measurement of signals beyond the linear range of the
axis.
1 1
instrument.
NOTE 4—Counter bore shall be ⁄2 in. [15.0 mm] diameter by ⁄8 in.
[5 mm] deep.
4.2 Search Units:
FIG. 1 Ultrasonic Standard Reference Block
4.2.1 Longitudinal Wave, internally grounded, having a ⁄2
to 1-in. [13 to 25-mm] diameter or 1-in. [25-mm] square
TABLE 1 Dimensions and Identification of Reference Blocks in
piezo-electric elements. Based on the signals-to-noise ratio of
the Basic Set (See Fig. 1)
the response pattern of the casting, a frequency in the range
Overall Width or Block
Metal
Hole Diameter
from 0.5 to 5 MHz shall be used. The background noise shall
Length Diameter Identifi-
Distance
in ⁄64 ths, in.
A
(C), in. (D), min, cation
(B), in.
not exceed 25 % of the distance amplitude correction curve
[mm]
[mm]
[mm] in. [mm] Number
(DAC). Transducers shall be utilized at their rated frequencies.
16 [6.4] 1 [25] 1 ⁄4 [45] 2 [50] 16-0100
4.2.2 Dual Element, 5-MHz, ⁄2 by 1 in. [13 by 25 mm], 12°
16 [6.4] 2 [50] 2 ⁄4 [70] 2 [50] 16-0200
included angle search units are recommended for sections 1 in. 16 [6.4] 3 [75] 3 ⁄4 [95] 2 [50] 16-0300
16 [6.4] 6 [150] 6 ⁄4 [170] 3 [75] 16-0600
[25 mm] and under.
16 [6.4] 10 [255] 10 ⁄4 [275] 4 [100] 16-1000
B
4.2.3 Other frequencies and sizes of search units may be
16 [6.4] B B + ⁄4 [B + 20] 5 [125] 16-B00
used for evaluating and pinpointing indications. A
Tolerance ± ⁄8 in. [3 mm].
B
Additional supplemental blocks for testing thickness greater than 10 in.
4.3 Reference Blocks:
[250 mm], see 4.3.3.
4.3.1 Reference blocks containing flat-bottom holes shall be
used to establish test sensitivity in accordance with 8.2.
4.3.2 Reference blocks shall be made from cast steels that
give an acoustic response similar to the castings being exam-
4.3.5 Each reference block shall be permanently identified
ined.
along the side of the block indicating the material and the block
4.3.3 The design of reference blocks shall be in accordance
identification.
with Fig. 1, and the basic set shall consist of those blocks listed
4.4 Couplant—A suitable couplant having good wetting
in Table 1. When section thicknesses over 15 in. [380 mm] are
characteristics shall be used between the search unit and
to be inspected, an additional block of the maximum test
examination surface. The same couplant shall be used for
thickness shall be made to supplement the basic set.
calibrations and examinations.
4.3.4 Machined blocks with ⁄32-in. [2.4-mm] diameter flat-
bottom holes at depths from the entry surface of ⁄8 in. [3 mm],
5. Personnel Requirements
1 1 3 3
⁄2 in. [13 mm], or ⁄2 t and ⁄4 in. [19 mm], or ⁄4 t (where t =
thickness of the block) shall be used to establish the DAC for 5.1 Personnel performing ultrasonic examination in accor-
the dual element search units (see Fig. 2). dance with this practice shall be qualified and certified in
A609/A609M − 12 (2018)
NOTE 1—Entrant surface shall be 250 µin. [6.3 µm] or finer.
NOTE 2—The ⁄32-in. [2.4-mm] flat-bottom hole must be flat within 0.002 in. [0.05 mm]. Diameter must be within +0.005 in. [0.13 mm] of the required
diameter. Hole axis must be perpendicular to the block and within an angle of 0°, 30 min.
NOTE 3—Hole shall be plugged following checking for ultrasonic response.
in. [mm] in. [mm]
1 1
⁄8 [3] 1 ⁄4 [32]
1 1
⁄4 [6] 1 ⁄2 [38]
1 3
⁄2 [13] 1 ⁄4 [44]
⁄4 [19.0] 2 [50]
1 [25] 10 [254]
FIG. 2 Ultrasonic Standard Reference Block for Dual-Search Unit Calibration
accordance with a written procedure conforming to Recom- 8.2 Using the set of reference blocks spanning the thickness
mended Practice No. SNT-TC-1A or another national standard
of the casting being inspected and overlays or electronic
acceptable to both the purchaser and the supplier.
markers, note the flat-bottom hole indication height for each of
the applicable blocks on the instrument screen. Draw a curve
6. Casting Conditions
through these marks on the screen or on suitable graph paper.
6.1 Castings shall receive at least an austenitizing heat
The maximum signal amplitude for the test blocks used shall
treatment before being ultrasonically examined.
peak at approximately three-fourths of the screen height above
the sweep by use of the attenuator. This curve shall be referred
6.2 Test surfaces of castings shall be free of material that
will interfere with the ultrasonic examination. They may be as to as the 100 % distance amplitude correction (DAC) curve. If
cast, blasted, ground, or machined. the attenuation of ultrasound in the casting thickness being
examined is such that the system’s dynamic range is exceeded,
6.3 The ultrasonic examination shall be conducted prior to
segmented DAC curves are permitted.
machining that prevents an effective examination of the cast-
ing.
8.3 The casting examination surface will normally be
rougher than that of the test blocks; consequently, employ a
7. Test Conditions
transfer mechanism to provide approximate compensation. In
7.1 To ensure complete coverage of the specified casting
order to accomplish this, first select a region of the casting that
section, each pass of the search unit shall overlap by at least
has parallel walls and a surface condition representative of the
10 % of the width of the transducer.
rest of the casting as a transfer point. Next, select the test block
7.2 The rate of scanning shall not exceed 6 in./s [150 mm/s].
whose overall length, C (Fig. 1), most closely matches the
reflection amplitude through the block length. Place the search
7.3 The ultrasonic beam shall be introduced perpendicular
unit on the casting at the transfer point and adjust the
to the examination surface.
instrument gain until the back reflection amplitude through the
8. Procedure
casting matches that through the test block. Using this transfer
technique, the examination sensitivity in the casting may be
8.1 Adjust the instrument controls to position the first back
expected to be within 630 % or less of that given by the test
reflection for the thickness to be tested at least one-half of the
distance across the instrument screen. blocks.
A609/A609M − 12 (2018)
TABLE 2 Rejection Level
8.4 Do not change those instrument controls and the test
frequency set during calibration, except the attenuator or
NOTE 1—The areas in the table refer to the surface area on the casting
calibrated gain control, during acceptance examination of a
over which a continuous indication exceeding the amplitude reference line
or a continuous loss of back reflection of 75 % or greater is maintained.
given thickness of the casting. Make a periodic calibration
during the inspection by checking the amplitude of response
NOTE 2—Areas shall be measured from the center of the search unit.
from the ⁄4-in. [6.4-mm] diameter flat-bottom hole in the test
NOTE 3—In certain castings, because of very long test distances or
block utilized for the transfer.
curvature of the test surface, the casting surface area over which a given
discontinuity is detected may be considerably larger or smaller than the
NOTE 2—The attenuator or calibrated gain control may be used to
change the signal amplitude during examination to permit small amplitude actual area of the discontinuity in the casting; in such cases, a graphic plot
that incorporates a consideration of beam spread should be used for
signals to be more readily detected. Signal evaluation is made by returning
the attenuator or calibrated gain control to its original setting. realistic evaluation of the discontinuity.
2 2
Area, in. [cm ]
8.5 During examination of areas of the casting having
Ultrasonic Testing Length, max,
(see 10.2.1 and
parallel walls, recheck areas showing 75 % or greater loss of Quality Level in. [mm]
10.2.2)
back reflection to determine whether loss of back reflection is
1 0.8 [5] 1.5 [40]
due to poor contact, insufficient couplant, misoriented
2 1.5 [10] 2.2 [55]
3 3 [20] 3.0 [75]
discontinuity, etc. If the reason for loss of back reflection is not
4 5 [30] 3.9 [100]
evident, consider the area questionable and investigate further.
5 8 [50] 4.8 [120]
6 12 [80] 6.0 [150]
9. Report
7 16 [100] 6.9 [175]
9.1 The manufacturer’s report of final ultrasonic examina-
tion shall contain the following data and shall be furnished to
the purchaser:
...
This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: A609/A609M − 12 A609/A609M − 12 (Reapproved 2018)
Standard Practice for
Castings, Carbon, Low-Alloy, and Martensitic Stainless
Steel, Ultrasonic Examination Thereof
This standard is issued under the fixed designation A609/A609M; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year
of original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval.
A superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.
1. Scope*
1.1 This practice covers the standards and procedures for the pulse-echo ultrasonic examination of heat-treated carbon,
low-alloy, and martensitic stainless steel castings.
1.2 This practice is to be used whenever the inquiry, contract, order, or specification states that castings are to be subjected to
ultrasonic examination in accordance with Practice A609A609/A609M/A 609M.
1.3 This practice contains two procedures. Procedure A is the original A609/A609M practice and requires calibration using a
series of test blocks containing flat bottomed flat-bottomed holes. It also provides supplementary requirements for angle beam
testing. Procedure B requires calibration using a back wall reflection from a series of solid calibration blocks.
NOTE 1—Ultrasonic examination and radiography are not directly comparable. This examination technique is intended to complement Guide
E94E94/E94M in the detection of discontinuities.
1.4 Supplementary requirements of an optional nature are provided for use at the option of the purchaser. The supplementary
requirements shall apply only when specified individually by the purchaser in the purchase order or contract.
1.5 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each
system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the
two systems may result in non-conformancenonconformance with the standard.
1.5.1 Within the text, the SI units are shown in brackets.
1.5.2 This practice is expressed in both inch-pound units and SI units; however, unless the purchase order or contract specifies
the applicable M specification M-specification designation (SI units), the inch-pound units shall apply.
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility
of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety safety, health, and healthenvironmental practices and determine the
applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.7 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization
established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued
by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
A217/A217M Specification for Steel Castings, Martensitic Stainless and Alloy, for Pressure-Containing Parts, Suitable for
High-Temperature Service
E94E94/E94M Guide for Radiographic Examination Using Industrial Radiographic Film
E317 Practice for Evaluating Performance Characteristics of Ultrasonic Pulse-Echo Testing Instruments and Systems without the
Use of Electronic Measurement Instruments
This practice is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee A01 on Steel, Stainless Steel and Related Alloys and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee A01.18
on Castings.
Current edition approved May 1, 2012March 1, 2018. Published June 2012March 2018. Originally approved in 1970. Last previous edition approved in 20072012 as
A609/A609M – 91 (2007).A609/A609M – 12. DOI: 10.1520/A0609_A0609M-12.10.1520/A0609_A0609M-12R18.
For ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code applications, see related Specification SA-609 of Section II of that Code.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
A609/A609M − 12 (2018)
2.2 Other Document:
SNT-TC-1A Recommended Practice for Non-DestructiveNondestructive Testing Personnel Qualification and Certification
3. Ordering Information
3.1 The inquiry and order should specify which procedure is to be used. If a procedure is not specified, Procedure A shall be
used.
3.2 The purchaser shall furnish the following information:
3.2.1 Quality levels for the entire casting or portions thereof,
3.2.2 Sections of castings requiring longitudinal-beam longitudinal beam examination,
3.2.3 Sections of castings requiring dual element examination,
3.2.4 Sections of castings requiring supplementary examination, using the angle-beam angle beam procedure described in
Supplementary Requirement S1 in order to achieve more complete examination, and
3.2.5 Any requirements additional to the provisions of this practice.
PROCEDURE A—FLAT-BOTTOMED A – FLAT-BOTTOMED HOLE CALIBRATION PROCEDURE
4. Apparatus
4.1 Electronic Apparatus:
4.1.1 An ultrasonic, pulsed, reflection type of instrument that is capable of generating, receiving, and amplifying frequencies
of at least 0.5 to 5 MHz.
4.1.2 The ultrasonic instrument shall provide linear presentation (within 65 %) for at least 75 % of the screen height (sweep
line to top of screen). Linearity shall be determined in accordance with Practice E317 or equivalent electronic means.
4.1.3 The electronic apparatus shall contain a signal attenuator or calibrated gain control that shall be accurate over its useful
range to 610 % of the nominal attenuation or gain ratio to allow measurement of signals beyond the linear range of the instrument.
4.2 Search Units:
4.2.1 Longitudinal Wave, internally grounded, having a ½ ⁄2 to 1 in. 1-in. [13 to 25 mm] 25-mm] diameter or 1-in. [25-mm]
square piezo-electric elements. Based on the signals-to-noise ratio of the response pattern of the casting, a frequency in the range
from 0.5 to 5 MHz shall be used. The background noise shall not exceed 25 % of the distance amplitude correction curve (DAC).
Transducers shall be utilized at their rated frequencies.
4.2.2 Dual-Element, Dual Element, 5-MHz, ½ ⁄2 by 1-in. 1 in. [13 by 25-mm], 25 mm], 12° included angle search units are
recommended for sections 1 in. [25 mm] and under.
4.2.3 Other frequencies and sizes of search units may be used for evaluating and pinpointing indications.
4.3 Reference Blocks:
4.3.1 Reference blocks containing flat-bottom holes shall be used to establish test sensitivity in accordance with 8.2.
4.3.2 Reference blocks shall be made from cast steels that give an acoustic response similar to the castings being examined.
4.3.3 The design of reference blocks shall be in accordance with Fig. 1, and the basic set shall consist of those blocks listed
in Table 1. When section thicknesses over 15 in. [380-mm][380 mm] are to be inspected, an additional block of the maximum test
thickness shall be made to supplement the basic set.
3 1 1
4.3.4 Machined blocks with ⁄32-in. [2.4-mm] diameter flat-bottom holes at depths from the entry surface of ⁄8 in. [3 mm], ⁄2
1 3 3
in. [13 mm], or ⁄2 t and ⁄4 in. [19 mm], or ⁄4 t (where t = thickness of the block) shall be used to establish the DAC for the
dual-element dual element search units (see Fig. 2).
4.3.5 Each reference block shall be permanently identified along the side of the block indicating the material and the block
identification.
4.4 Couplant—A suitable couplant having good wetting characteristics shall be used between the search unit and examination
surface. The same couplant shall be used for calibrations and examinations.
5. Personnel Requirements
5.1 Personnel performing ultrasonic examination in accordance with this practice shall be qualified and certified in accordance
with a written procedure conforming to Recommended Practice No. SNT-TC-1A or another national standard acceptable to both
the purchaser and the supplier.
6. Casting Conditions
6.1 Castings shall receive at least an austenitizing heat treatment before being ultrasonically examined.
Available from American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT), P.O. Box 28518, 1711 Arlingate Ln., Columbus, OH 43228-0518, http://www.asnt.org.
A609/A609M − 12 (2018)
NOTE 1—Opposite ends of reference block shall be flat and parallel within 0.001 in. [0.025 mm].
NOTE 2—Bottom of flat-bottom hole shall be flat within 0.002-in. [0.051 mm]0.002 in. [0.051 mm] and the finished diameter shall be ⁄4 + 0.002 in.
[6.4 + 0.050].
NOTE 3—Hole shall be straight and perpendicular to entry surface within 0°, 30 min and located within ⁄32 in. [0.80 mm] of longitudinal axis.
1 1
NOTE 4—Counter bore shall be ⁄2 in. [15.0 mm] diameter by ⁄8 in. [5 mm] [5 mm] deep.
FIG. 1 Ultrasonic Standard Reference Block
TABLE 1 Dimensions and Identification of Reference Blocks in
the Basic Set (See Fig. 1)
Overall Width or Block
Metal
Hole Diameter
Distance Length Diameter Identifi-
in ⁄64 ths, in.
A
(C), in. (D), min, cation
(B), in.
[mm]
[mm]
[mm] in. [mm] Number
16 [6.4] 1 [25] 1 ⁄4 [45] 2 [50] 16-0100
16 [6.4] 2 [50] 2 ⁄4 [70] 2 [50] 16-0200
16 [6.4] 3 [75] 3 ⁄4 [95] 2 [50] 16-0300
16 [6.4] 6 [150] 6 ⁄4 [170] 3 [75] 16-0600
16 [6.4] 10 [255] 10 ⁄4 [275] 4 [100] 16-1000
B
16 [6.4] B B + ⁄4 [B + 20] 5 [125] 16-B00
A
Tolerance ± ⁄8 in. [3 mm].
B
Additional supplemental blocks for testing thickness greater than 10 in. [250
mm], [250 mm], see 4.3.3.
6.2 Test surfaces of castings shall be free of material that will interfere with the ultrasonic examination. They may be as cast,
blasted, ground, or machined.
6.3 The ultrasonic examination shall be conducted prior to machining that prevents an effective examination of the casting.
7. Test Conditions
7.1 To assureensure complete coverage of the specified casting section, each pass of the search unit shall overlap by at least
10 % of the width of the transducer.
7.2 The rate of scanning shall not exceed 6 in./s [150 mm/s].
7.3 The ultrasonic beam shall be introduced perpendicular to the examination surface.
8. Procedure
8.1 Adjust the instrument controls to position the first back reflection for the thickness to be tested at least one half one-half
of the distance across the instrument screen.
A609/A609M − 12 (2018)
NOTE 1—Entrant surface shall be 250 μin. [6.3 μm] or finer.
NOTE 2—The ⁄32-in. [2.4 mm] [2.4-mm] flat-bottom hole must be flat within 0.002 in. [0.05 mm]. Diameter must be within +0.005 in. [0.13 mm] of
the required diameter. Hole axis must be perpendicular to the block and within an angle of 0°, 30 min.
NOTE 3—Hole shall be plugged following checking for ultrasonic response.
in. [mm] in. [mm]
1 1
⁄8 [3] 1 ⁄4 [32]
1 1
⁄4 [6] 1 ⁄2 [38]
1 3
⁄2 [13] 1 ⁄4 [44]
⁄4 [19.0] 2 [50]
1 [25] 10 [254]
FIG. 2 Ultrasonic Standard Reference Block for Dual-Search Unit Calibration
8.2 Using the set of reference blocks spanning the thickness of the casting being inspected and overlays or electronic markers,
note the flat-bottom hole indication height for each of the applicable blocks on the instrument screen. Draw a curve through these
marks on the screen or on suitable graph paper. The maximum signal amplitude for the test blocks used shall peak at approximately
three-fourths of the screen height above the sweep by use of the attenuator. This curve shall be referred to as the 100 % distance
amplitude correction (DAC) curve. If the attenuation of ultrasound in the casting thickness being examined is such that the
system’s dynamic range is exceeded, segmented DAC curves are permitted.
8.3 The casting examination surface will normally be rougher than that of the test blocks; consequently, employ a transfer
mechanism to provide approximate compensation. In order to accomplish this, first select a region of the casting that has parallel
walls and a surface condition representative of the rest of the casting as a transfer point. Next, select the test block whose overall
length, C (Fig. 1), most closely matches the reflection amplitude through the block length. Place the search unit on the casting at
the transfer point and adjust the instrument gain until the back reflection amplitude through the casting matches that through the
test block. Using this transfer technique, the examination sensitivity in the casting may be expected to be within 630 % or less
of that given by the test blocks.
8.4 Do not change those instrument controls and the test frequency set during calibration, except the attenuator,attenuator or
calibrated gain control, during acceptance examination of a given thickness of the casting. Make a periodic calibration during the
inspection by checking the amplitude of response from the ⁄4-in. [6.4-mm] diameter flat-bottom hole in the test block utilized for
the transfer.
NOTE 2—The attenuator or calibrated gain control may be used to change the signal amplitude during examination to permit small amplitude signals
to be more readily detected. Signal evaluation is made by returning the attenuator or calibrated gain control to its original setting.
8.5 During examination of areas of the casting having parallel walls, recheck areas showing 75 % or greater loss of back
reflection to determine whether loss of back reflection is due to poor contact, insufficient couplant, misoriented discontinuity, etc.
If the reason for loss of back reflection is not evident, consider the area questionable and further investigate.investigate further.
9. Report
9.1 The manufacturer’s report of final ultrasonic examination shall contain the following data and shall be furnished to the
purchaser:
9.1.1 The total number, location, amplitude, and area when possible to delineate boundaries by monitoring the movement of the
center of the search unit of all indications equal to or greater than 100 % of the DAC,
A609/A609M − 12 (2018)
9.1.2 Questionable areas from 8.5 that, upon further investigation, are dete
...
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