ASTM A960/A960M-23

Standard Specification for Common Requirements for Wrought Steel Piping Fittings

ABSTRACT
This specification covers the common requirements that shall apply to wrought steel piping fittings. The material shall consist of forgings, bars, plates, and seamless or welded tubular products. Ferritic steels shall be fully killed. Hollow cylindrically shaped parts up to and including NPS 4 may be machined from bar or seamless tubular material. Elbows, return bends, tees, and header tees shall not be machined directly from bar stock. The following procedures shall be done for heat treatment: full annealing, solution annealing, isothermal annealing, normalizing, tempering and post-weld heat treatment, stress relieving, and quench and temper. Chemical analysis, heat analysis, and product analysis shall also be done. The chemical requirements shall conform to the required compositions of carbon, manganese, phosphorus, sulfur, silicon, nickel, chromium, molybdenum, vanadium, columbium, titanium, aluminum, lead, and copper. The following tests shall be done for the mechanical requirements: tension, hardness, impact, and hydrostatic tests.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers a group of common requirements that shall apply to wrought steel piping fittings covered in any of the following individual product specifications or any other ASTM specification that invokes this specification or portions thereof:    
Title of Specification  
ASTM
Designation  
Specification for Piping Fittings of Wrought
Carbon Steel and Alloy Steel for Moderate and
High Temperature Service  
A234/A234M    
Specification for Wrought Austenitic Stainless
Steel Piping Fittings  
A403/A403M    
Specification for Piping Fittings of Wrought Carbon
Steel and Alloy Steel for Low-Temperature Service  
A420/A420M    
Specification for Wrought-Carbon Steel Butt-Welding
Piping Fittings with Improved Notch Toughness  
A758/A758M    
Specification for As-Welded Wrought Austenitic
Stainless Steel Fittings for General Corrosive
Service at Low and Moderate Temperatures  
A774/A774M    
Specification for Wrought Ferritic, Ferritic/Austenitic,
and Martensitic Stainless Steel Piping Fittings  
A815/A815M    
Specification for Heat-Treated Carbon Steel
Fittings for Low-Temperature and Corrosive Service  
A858/A858M    
Specification for Wrought High-Strength
Ferritic Steel Butt-Welding Fittings  
A860/A860M  
1.2 In case of conflict between a requirement of the individual product specification and a requirement of this general requirement specification, the requirements of the individual product specification shall prevail over those of this specification.  
1.3 By mutual agreement between the purchaser and the supplier, additional requirements may be specified (See 4.1.8). The acceptance of any such additional requirements shall be dependent on negotiations with the supplier and must be included in the order as agreed upon by the purchaser and supplier.  
1.4 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. Within the text and the tables, the SI units are shown in brackets. 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-conformance with the specification. The inch-pound units shall apply unless the “M” designation [SI] of the product specification is specified in the order.  
1.5 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.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 30-Apr-2023
• ICS: 23.040.40 - Metal fittings
• ICS: 77.140.20 - Stainless steels
• Technical Committee: A01 - Steel, Stainless Steel and Related Alloys
• Drafting Committee: A01.22 - Steel Forgings and Wrought Fittings for Piping Applications and Bolting Materials for Piping and Special Purpose Applications

Relations

• Refers: ASTM A815/A815M-24 - Standard Specification for Wrought Ferritic, Ferritic/Austenitic, and Martensitic Stainless Steel Piping Fittings
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2024
• Refers: ASTM A370-24 - Standard Test Methods and Definitions for Mechanical Testing of Steel Products
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2024
• Refers: ASTM A774/A774M-24 - Standard Specification for As-Welded Wrought Austenitic Stainless Steel Fittings for General Corrosive Service at Low and Moderate Temperatures
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2024
• Refers: ASTM A941-24 - Standard Terminology Relating to Steel, Stainless Steel, Related Alloys, and Ferroalloys
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2024
• Refers: ASTM A388/A388M-23 - Standard Practice for Ultrasonic Examination of Steel Forgings
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2023
• Refers: ASTM A858/A858M-19 - Standard Specification for Heat-Treated Carbon Steel Fittings for Low-Temperature and Corrosive Service
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2019
• Refers: ASTM A774/A774M-14(2019) - Standard Specification for As-Welded Wrought Austenitic Stainless Steel Fittings for General Corrosive Service at Low and Moderate Temperatures
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2019
• Refers: ASTM A758/A758M-14(2019) - Standard Specification for Wrought-Carbon Steel Butt-Welding Piping Fittings with Improved Notch Toughness
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2019
• Refers: ASTM A420/A420M-19a - Standard Specification for Piping Fittings of Wrought Carbon Steel and Alloy Steel for Low-Temperature Service
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2019
• Refers: ASTM A700-14(2019) - Standard Guide for Packaging, Marking, and Loading Methods for Steel Products for Shipment
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2019
• Refers: ASTM A403/A403M-19a - Standard Specification for Wrought Austenitic Stainless Steel Piping Fittings
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2019
• Refers: ASTM E1916-11(2019) - Standard Guide for Identification of Mixed Lots of Metals
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2019
• Refers: ASTM A420/A420M-19 - Standard Specification for Piping Fittings of Wrought Carbon Steel and Alloy Steel for Low-Temperature Service
• Effective Date: 01-Sep-2019
• Refers: ASTM A370-19 - Standard Test Methods and Definitions for Mechanical Testing of Steel Products
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2019
• Refers: ASTM A403/A403M-19 - Standard Specification for Wrought Austenitic Stainless Steel Piping Fittings
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2019

Overview

ASTM A960/A960M-23 is the standard specification published by ASTM International for establishing the common requirements that apply to wrought steel piping fittings. This specification provides a framework for the manufacture, heat treatment, chemical composition, mechanical properties, testing, marking, and certification of steel pipe fittings. It is referenced by a wide range of ASTM standards covering piping fittings for various applications, such as moderate and high-temperature service, low-temperature service, improved notch toughness, and resistance to corrosion.

This standard ensures consistency and quality in the production of steel piping fittings, enabling manufacturers and end-users across industries to maintain reliable and compatible components for piping and pressure-containing systems.

Key Topics

• Material Types: Covers forgings, bars, plates, and both seamless and welded tubular products. Ferritic steels must be fully killed. Certain small-diameter hollow shaped parts (up to NPS 4) may be machined from bar or seamless tubing, but elbows, tees, and similar fittings may not be machined directly from bar stock.
• Heat Treatment: Specifies procedures such as annealing, solution annealing, isothermal annealing, normalizing, tempering, post-weld heat treatment, stress relieving, and quench and temper to achieve desired physical properties.
• Chemical Analysis: Outlines requirements for chemical composition including elements like carbon, manganese, phosphorus, sulfur, silicon, nickel, chromium, molybdenum, vanadium, titanium, aluminum, lead, and copper. Analysis is carried out to ensure conformance with specific requirements in referenced product standards.
• Mechanical Testing: Fittings must undergo tension, hardness, impact, and hydrostatic tests to verify mechanical performance. Sampling methods and limits are detailed, ensuring representative testing.
• Surface and Repair: Details requirements for surface finish, corrosion protection, examination of discontinuities, and permissible methods for surface repair, including welding by qualified personnel.
• Marking & Certification: Stipulates clear marking requirements for identification and traceability, including product specification, grade, size, and more. Certification and test reports must accompany each batch as proof of compliance.
• Ordering and Supplementary Requirements: Provides guidelines for specifying purchase orders and allows for additional requirements or supplementary testing by mutual agreement.

Applications

ASTM A960/A960M-23 is widely used in industries where steel piping systems play a critical role, including:

• Oil & Gas: For production, transportation, and refining facilities requiring reliable steel pipe fittings in various environments.
• Power Generation: Used in both fossil-fuel and nuclear plants where piping must endure high pressures and temperatures.
• Chemical Processing: Ensures fittings resist corrosion and maintain integrity under aggressive chemicals and varying temperatures.
• Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering: Used in vessels and offshore platforms for systems that require robust and durable fittings.
• Construction and HVAC: In large building projects, fittings compliant with ASTM A960/A960M are critical for plumbing, heating, ventilation, and fire protection systems.
• General Manufacturing: Any industry using piping networks for steam, fluids, or gases benefits from standardization and compatibility ensured by this specification.

Related Standards

ASTM A960/A960M-23 serves as a baseline for various product standards. Key referenced specifications include:

• ASTM A234/A234M: Wrought carbon steel and alloy steel fittings for moderate and high temperature
• ASTM A403/A403M: Wrought austenitic stainless steel fittings
• ASTM A420/A420M: Wrought carbon and alloy steel fittings for low temperature service
• ASTM A774/A774M: As-welded austenitic stainless steel fittings for corrosive service
• ASTM A815/A815M: Wrought ferritic, ferritic/austenitic, and martensitic stainless fittings
• ASTM A860/A860M: Wrought high-strength ferritic steel butt-welding fittings

In addition, the standard interfaces with ASME B16.9 and B16.11 for dimensional standards, MSS-SP-25 for marking, and essential ASTM and ASME standards on testing and qualification. This broad referencing ensures that fittings manufactured to ASTM A960/A960M-23 are compatible and meet global expectations for quality, safety, and performance.

Keywords: ASTM A960, steel piping fittings, wrought steel, mechanical properties, heat treatment, chemical analysis, hydrostatic test, ferritic steel, alloy steel, stainless steel fittings, pressure vessel service, oil and gas piping, industrial piping standards.

Standards Content (Sample)

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: A960/A960M − 23
Standard Specification for
Common Requirements for Wrought Steel Piping Fittings
This standard is issued under the fixed designation A960/A960M; 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.
1. Scope* in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore each
system shall be used independently of the other. Combining
1.1 This specification covers a group of common require-
values from the two systems may result in non-conformance
ments that shall apply to wrought steel piping fittings covered
with the specification. The inch-pound units shall apply unless
in any of the following individual product specifications or any
the “M” designation [SI] of the product specification is
other ASTM specification that invokes this specification or
specified in the order.
portions thereof:
1.5 This international standard was developed in accor-
Title of Specification ASTM
Designation
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
Specification for Piping Fittings of Wrought A234/A234M
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Carbon Steel and Alloy Steel for Moderate and
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
High Temperature Service
Specification for Wrought Austenitic Stainless A403/A403M
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
Steel Piping Fittings
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Specification for Piping Fittings of Wrought Carbon A420/A420M
Steel and Alloy Steel for Low-Temperature Service
2. Referenced Documents
Specification for Wrought-Carbon Steel Butt-Welding A758/A758M
Piping Fittings with Improved Notch Toughness
2.1 ASTM Standards:
Specification for As-Welded Wrought Austenitic A774/A774M
Stainless Steel Fittings for General Corrosive
A29/A29M Specification for General Requirements for Steel
Service at Low and Moderate Temperatures
Bars, Carbon and Alloy, Hot-Wrought
Specification for Wrought Ferritic, Ferritic/Austenitic, A815/A815M
A234/A234M Specification for Piping Fittings of Wrought
and Martensitic Stainless Steel Piping Fittings
Specification for Heat-Treated Carbon Steel A858/A858M
Carbon Steel and Alloy Steel for Moderate and High
Fittings for Low-Temperature and Corrosive Service
Temperature Service
Specification for Wrought High-Strength A860/A860M
A262 Practices for Detecting Susceptibility to Intergranular
Ferritic Steel Butt-Welding Fittings
Attack in Austenitic Stainless Steels
1.2 In case of conflict between a requirement of the indi-
A370 Test Methods and Definitions for Mechanical Testing
vidual product specification and a requirement of this general
of Steel Products
requirement specification, the requirements of the individual
A388/A388M Practice for Ultrasonic Examination of Steel
product specification shall prevail over those of this specifica-
Forgings
tion.
A403/A403M Specification for Wrought Austenitic Stainless
1.3 By mutual agreement between the purchaser and the
Steel Piping Fittings
supplier, additional requirements may be specified (See 4.1.8).
A420/A420M Specification for Piping Fittings of Wrought
The acceptance of any such additional requirements shall be
Carbon Steel and Alloy Steel for Low-Temperature Ser-
dependent on negotiations with the supplier and must be
vice
included in the order as agreed upon by the purchaser and
A700 Guide for Packaging, Marking, and Loading Methods
supplier.
for Steel Products for Shipment
A751 Test Methods and Practices for Chemical Analysis of
1.4 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units
are to be regarded separately as standard. Within the text and Steel Products
A758/A758M Specification for Wrought-Carbon Steel Butt-
the tables, the SI units are shown in brackets. The values stated
Welding Piping Fittings with Improved Notch Toughness
A763 Practices for Detecting Susceptibility to Intergranular
Attack in Ferritic Stainless Steels
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee A01 on Steel,
Stainless Steel and Related Alloys and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee
A01.22 on Steel Forgings and Wrought Fittings for Piping Applications and Bolting
Materials for Piping and Special Purpose Applications. For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Current edition approved May 1, 2023. Published May 2023. Originally contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
approved in 1996. Last previous edition approved in 2020 as A960/A960M – 20. Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
DOI: 10.1520/A0960_A0960M-23. 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
A960/A960M − 23
A774/A774M Specification for As-Welded Wrought Auste- 3.1.2 certifying organization—the company or association
nitic Stainless Steel Fittings for General Corrosive Service responsible for the conformance of, the marking of, and the
at Low and Moderate Temperatures certification of the product to the specification requirements.
A815/A815M Specification for Wrought Ferritic, Ferritic/
3.1.3 fitting—a component for non-bolted joints used in
Austenitic, and Martensitic Stainless Steel Piping Fittings
piping systems and pressure vessels.
A858/A858M Specification for Heat-Treated Carbon Steel
3.1.4 flange—a component for bolted joints used in piping
Fittings for Low-Temperature and Corrosive Service
systems and pressure vessels.
A860/A860M Specification for Wrought High-Strength Fer-
3.1.5 forging—the product of a substantially compressive
ritic Steel Butt-Welding Fittings
hot or cold plastic working operation that consolidates the
A941 Terminology Relating to Steel, Stainless Steel, Related
material and produces the required shape.
Alloys, and Ferroalloys
A967/A967M Specification for Chemical Passivation Treat-
3.1.5.1 Discussion—The plastic working must be performed
ments for Stainless Steel Parts
by a forging machine, such as a hammer, press, or ring rolling
A1058 Test Methods for Mechanical Testing of Steel
machine and must deform the material to produce an essen-
Products—Metric
tially wrought structure throughout the material cross section.
E165/E165M Practice for Liquid Penetrant Testing for Gen-
3.1.6 longitudinal axis—an axis along the lengthwise direc-
eral Industry
tion of the part, bar, pipe or tubing parallel to the direction of
E213 Practice for Ultrasonic Testing of Metal Pipe and
the greatest extension of the steel during rolling, extruding or
Tubing
forging.
E709 Guide for Magnetic Particle Testing
3.2 Definitions—For definitions of other terms used in this
E1916 Guide for Identification of Mixed Lots of Metals
specification, refer to Terminology A941.
2.2 Manufacturer’s Standardization Society Standards:
MSS-SP-25 The Standard Marking System of Valves,
4. Ordering Information
Fittings, Flanges and Unions
4.1 It is the purchaser’s responsibility to specify in the
MSS-SP-43 Standard Practice for Light Weight Stainless
purchase order all ordering information necessary to purchase
Steel Butt-Welding Fittings
the needed material. Examples of such information include but
MSS-SP-75 Specification for High Test Wrought Butt-
are not limited to the following:
Welding Fittings
4.1.1 Quantity,
MSS-SP-79 Socket Welding Reducer Inserts
4.1.2 Description of fitting and nominal dimensions (stan-
MSS-SP-83 Class 3000 Steel Pipe Unions, Socket Welding
dard or special),
and Threaded
4.1.3 Steel composition by grade and class designation,
MSS-SP-95 Swage(d) Nipples and Bull Plugs
4.1.4 Construction, seamless or welded (unless seamless or
MSS-SP-97 Integrally Reinforced Forged Branch Outlet
welded construction is specified by the purchaser, either may
Fittings—Socket Welding, Threaded and Buttwelding
be furnished at the option of the supplier),
Ends
4.1.5 Specification number (including the year/date of
2.3 American Society of Nondestructive Testing:
issue),
SNT-TC-1A Recommended Practice for Nondestructive
4.1.6 Choice of testing track from the options listed in Test
Testing Personnel Qualification and Certification
Methods A1058 when material is ordered to an M suffix (SI
2.4 ASME Standards:
units) product standard. If the choice of test track is not
B16.9 Steel Butt-Welding Fittings
specified in the order, then the default ASTM track shall be
B16.11 Forged Steel Fittings, Socket Welding and Threaded
used as noted in Test Methods A1058.
Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code Section IX
4.1.7 Supplementary requirements, and
4.1.8 Additional requirements.
3. Terminology
5. Material
3.1 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.1.1 bar—a solid section that is long in relationship to its
5.1 The material for fittings shall consist of forgings, bars,
cross sectional dimensions, with a relatively constant cross
plates and seamless or welded tubular products.
section throughout its length. (See Specification A29/A29M
5.2 The steel shall conform to the chemical requirements of
for definitions relating to the production of hot wrought and
the individual product specification and may be made from any
cold finished bars.)
process.
5.3 Ferritic steels shall be fully killed.
Available from Manufacturers Standardization Society of the Valve and Fittings
5.4 If secondary melting is employed, the heat shall be
Industry (MSS), 127 Park St., NE, Vienna, VA 22180-4602, http://www.mss-
defined as all ingots remelted from a primary heat.
hq.com.
Available from American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT), P.O. Box
28518, 1711 Arlingate Ln., Columbus, OH 43228-0518, http://www.asnt.org. 6. Manufacture
Available from American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), ASME
6.1 Forging or shaping operations may be performed by any
International Headquarters, Two Park Ave., New York, NY 10016-5990, http://
www.asme.org. of the methods included in the individual product specification.
A960/A960M − 23
6.2 Parts up to and including NPS 4 may be machined from those elements specified in the individual product specification.
bar or seamless tubular material provided the longitudinal axis If secondary melting processes are employed, the heat analysis
of the part is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the bar or shall be obtained from one remelted ingot of each primary
tubular material. Elbows, return bends, tees and header tees melt. The chemical analysis thus determined shall conform to
shall not be machined directly from bar stock. the requirements of the individual product specification. Note
that the product analysis (check analysis) tolerances are not to
6.3 Fittings, after forming at an elevated temperature, shall
be applied to the heat analysis requirements.
be cooled to a temperature below the critical range under
8.2.1 For steels ordered under product specifications refer-
suitable conditions to prevent injury by cooling too rapidly.
encing this specification of general requirements, the steel shall
6.4 All classes of fittings shall have the welders, welding
not contain an unspecified element, other than nitrogen for
operators, and welding procedures qualified under the provi-
stainless steels, for the ordered grade to the extent that the steel
sion of Section IX of the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel
conforms to the requirements of another grade for which that
Code except that welds from the original pipe manufacturer
element is a specified element having a required minimum
made without the addition of filler metal do not require such
content. For this requirement, a grade is defined as an alloy
qualification.
described individually and identified by its own UNS or grade
designation in a table of chemical requirements within any
7. Heat Treatment
specification listed within the scope as being covered by this
7.1 Fittings requiring heat treatment shall be treated as
specification.
specified in the individual product specification using the
8.3 Product Analysis—If a product analysis is performed it
following procedures:
shall be in accordance with Test Methods, Practices, and
7.1.1 Annealing—Fittings shall be uniformly reheated to a
Terminology A751. The chemical composition thus determined
temperature above the transformation range and, after holding
shall conform to limits of the product specification, within the
for a sufficient time at this temperature, cooled slowly to a
permissible variations of Table 1 of this specification.
temperature below the transformation range.
8.3.1 Limits on formula calculations involving elemental
7.1.2 Solution Annealing (or Solution Treat or Treatment)—
contents shall apply only to the heat analysis, unless agreed
Fittings shall be heated to a temperature that causes the
upon between supplier and purchaser. Where limits on formula
carbides to go into solution and then quenched in water or
calculations involving elemental contents apply to product
rapidly cooled by other means to prevent reprecipitation.
analysis by such agreement, permissible variations in the
7.1.3 Isothermal Annealing—Isothermal annealing shall
formula calculation results beyond the limits for the heat
consist of austenitizing a ferrous alloy and then cooling to and
analysis shall also be agreed upon between supplier and
holding within the range of temperature at which the austenite
transforms to a relatively soft ferrite-carbide aggregate. purchaser. Examples of such formula calculations include, but
are not limited to, the following: carbon equivalent CE = C +
7.1.4 Normalizing—Fittings shall be uniformly reheated to a
temperature above the transformation range and subsequently Mn/6 + (Cr + Mo + V) / 5 + (Ni + Cu) / 15; J factor = (Mn +
Si) × (P + Sn) × 10 ; or requirements for specific elemental
cooled in air at room temperature.
balance or sufficiency, typically related to Ti, Nb, or Al and
7.1.5 Tempering and Post-Weld Heat Treatment—Fittings
interstitials C and N, such as Nb = 5 × C minimum.
shall be reheated to the prescribed temperature below the
transformation range, held at temperature for the greater of ⁄2
9. Mechanical Requirements
h or 1 h/in. [25.4 mm] of thickness at the thickest section and
cooled in still air.
9.1 Method of Mechanical Test—All tests shall be con-
7.1.6 Stress Relieving—Fittings shall be uniformly heated to
ducted in accordance with Test Methods and Definitions A370
the selected stress relieving temperature, held long enough to
if the inch-pound units are specified or Test Methods A1058 if
reduce stresses and then cooled at a rate that will result in the
the M suffix (SI Units) standard is specified.
properties required for the material grade and minimize the
9.2 The test specimen shall represent all material from the
development of new residual stresses. The temperature shall
same heat and heat treatment load whose maximum thick-
not vary from the selected temperature by more than 6 25 °F
nesses do not exceed the thickness of the test specimen or
[6 14 °C].
blank by more than ⁄4 in. [6 mm].
7.1.7 Quench and Temper—Fittings shall be fully austen-
itized and immediately quenched in a suitable liquid medium.
9.3 One tension test at room temperature shall be made in
The quenched fittings shall be reheated to a minimum tempera-
accordance with 9.2 from each heat in each heat treatment load.
ture of 1100 °F [590 °C] and cooled in still air.
9.3.1 If heat treatment is performed in either a continuous or
batch type furnace controlled within 6 25 °F [6 14 °C] of the
8. Chemical Requirements
required heat treatment temperature and equipped with record-
8.1 Chemical Analysis—Samples for chemical analysis and
ing pyrometers so that complete records of heat treatment are
methods of analysis shall be in accordance with Test Methods,
available, and if the same heat treating cycles are used on the
Practices and Terminology A751 for Chemical Analysis of
material represented by the tension test, then one tension test
Steel Products.
from each heat shall be required, instead of one tension test
8.2 Heat Analysis—An analysis of each heat of steel shall be from each heat in each heat treatment load in accordance with
made by the manufacturer to determine the percentages of 9.2.
A960/A960M − 23
A
TABLE 1 Product Analysis Tolerances
9.4 Retest—When a retest is permitted by the product
Element Tolerance Over the
specification, it shall be performed on twice the number of
Limit or Maximum of
Maximum Limit or
Specified Range, Wt % representative specimens that were originally nonconforming.
Under the Minimum Limit
When any retest specimen does not conform to the product
Carbon to 0.010, incl 0.002
over 0.010 to 0.030, incl 0.005
specification requirements for the characteristic in question, the
over 0.030 to 0.20, icl 0.01
lot represented by that specimen shall be rejected or reworked
over 0.20 to 0.80, incl 0.02
in accordance with Section 14.
Manganese to 1.00, incl 0.03
over 1.00 to 3.00, incl 0.04
9.4.1 If the results of the tension test do not conform to the
over 3.00 to 6.00, incl 0.05
requirements specified in the product specification, retests are
over 6.00 to 10.00, incl 0.06
Phosphorous to 0.040, incl 0.005 permitted as outlined in the test methods specified herein. If the
over 0.040 to 0.20, incl 0.010
results of any tension test specimen are less than specified
Sulfur to 0.040, incl 0.005
because a flaw becomes evident in the test specimen during
over 0.040 to 0.20, incl 0.010
testing, a retest shall be allowed provided that the defect is not
over 0.20 to 0.50, incl 0.020
Silicon to 1.00, incl 0.05
attributable to ruptures, cracks, or flakes in the steel.
over 1.00 to 3.00, incl 0.10
9.4.2 If the average impact energy value meets the product
over 3.00 to 7.00, incl 0.15
specification requirements, but one energy value is below the
Chromium 0.90 and under 0.03
over 0.90 to 2.10, incl 0.05
specified minimum value for individual specimens, a retest is
over 2.10 to 4.00, incl 0.07
permitted. The retest shall be conducted in accordance with the
over 4.00 to 10.00, incl 0.10
over 10.00 to 15.00, incl 0.15 test methods specified herein.
over 15.00 to 20.00, incl 0.20
9.5 For the purpose of determining conformance to the
over 20.00 to 30.00, incl 0.25
Nickel to 1.00, incl 0.03
product specification requirements, specimens shall be ob-
over 1.00 to 5.00, incl 0.07
tained from a finished product, or from production material that
over 5.00 to 10.00, incl 0.10
is in the same condition of working and heat treatment as the
over 10.00 to 20.00, incl 0.15
over 20.00 to 30.00, incl 0.20
production material.
over 30.00 to 40.00, incl 0.25
Molybdenum to 0.20, incl 0.01
10. Hardness Requirements
over 0.20 to 0.60, incl 0.03
over 0.60 to 2.00, incl 0.05
10.1 The part shall conform to the hardness requirements
over 2.00 to 7.00, incl 0.10
prescribed in the product specification.
Titanium to 1.15, incl 0.05
Niobium (Columbium) to 0.14, incl 0.02
10.2 Sampling for hardness testing shall conform to the
over 0.14 to 5.50 0.05
Tantalum to 0.10 incl 0.02 product specification.
Copper to 0.50, incl 0.03
over 0.50 to 1.00, incl 0.05
11. Tensile Requirements
over 1.00 to 5.00, incl 0.10
B
Cobalt 0.05 to 0.25, incl 0.01
11.1 The part shall conform to the tensile property require-
0.25 to 5.00, incl 0.07
ments prescribed in the product specification.
Nitrogen to 0.02, incl 0.005
over 0.02 to 0.19, incl 0.01
11.2 Sampling for tensile testing shall conform to the
over 0.19 to 0.25 0.02
product specification.
over 0.25 to 0.35 0.03
over 0.35 to 0.45 0.04
11.3 When the dimensions of the material to be tested will
over 0.45 0.05
Aluminum to 0.15, incl –0.005 permit, the tension test specimens shall be machined to the
+0.01
form and dimensions of the standard 2-in. gauge length tension
over 0.15 to 0.50, incl 0.05
test specimens described in Test Methods and Definitions A370
over 0.50 to 0.80, incl 0.07
Vanadium to 0.10 incl 0.01 if inch-pound units are specified or the standard 62.5 mm
over 0.10 to 0.25, incl 0.02
gauge length tension test specimens described in the applicable
over 0.25 to 0.50, incl 0.03
track of Test Methods A1058 if SI units are specified.
minimum value specified, 0.01
under minimum limit only 11.3.1 In the case of small sections, which will not permit
Cerium to 0.20, incl 0.01
taking the standard test specimen described in 11.3, the subsize
Selenium to 0.35, incl 0.001
round or strip specimen shall be machined as described in the
Tungsten to 0.50, incl 0.02
over 0.50 to 1.00, incl 0.03
test methods being used. The tension test specimen shall be as
over 1.00 to 2.00, incl 0.05
large as feasible.
over 2.00 to 4.00, incl 0.06
Lead to 0.35, incl 0.03
12. Impact Requirements
Zirconium to 0.01, incl 0.005
Boron to 0.015 incl 0.0005
C
12.1 The part shall conform to the impact requirements
Tin to 0.010, incl
C
Arsenic to 0.010, incl
prescribed in the product specification.
C
Antimony to 0.003, incl
12.2 Sampling for impact testing shall conform to the
A
This table does not apply to heat analysis.
B
product specification.
Product analysis limits for cobalt under 0.05 % have not been established and the
producer should be consulted for those limits.
C 12.3 Notched-bar impact specimens shall be simple-beam,
No over tolerance allowed.
Charpy-type A with a V-notch in accordance with Test Methods
A960/A960M − 23
and Definitions A370 if the inch-pound units are specified or 15.3 Fittings supplied under this specification shall be
Test Methods A1058 if the M suffix (SI Units) standard is examined visually. Selected typical surface discontinuities
specified. Standard specimens 10 by 10 mm in cross section shall be explored for depth. Unless otherwise specified in the
shall be used unless the material to be tested is of insufficient purchase order, the following shall apply.
thickness, in which case the largest obtainable standard subsize 15.3.1 Fittings conforming to ASME B16.9, MSS-SP-43,
impact specimens shall be used. When the size or shape of the and MSS-SP-95 shall be free of surface discontinuities that
finished fittings is insufficient to permit obtaining the smallest penetrate more than 5 % of the specified nominal wall
standard subsize impact specimens, an impact test by the fitting thickness, except as defined in 15.3.3 and 15.3.4. Fittings
manufacturer will not be required. conforming to ASME B16.11, MSS-SP-79, MSS-SP-83, and
MSS-SP-97 shall be free of surface discontinuities that pen-
13. Hydrostatic Test Requirements
etrate more than 5 % of the actual wall thickness at the point of
interest, or ⁄16 in. [1.6 mm], whichever is less, except as
13.1 Parts manufactured under this specification shall be
defined in 15.3.4. Fittings conforming to MSS-SP-75 shall be
capable of passing a hydrostatic test compatible with the rating
free of surface discontinuities that penetrate more than 6 ⁄2 %
of the specified matching pipe of equivalent material. Such a
of the specified nominal wall thickness.
test shall be conducted only when specified in the purchase
order or when the hydrostatic test Supplementary Requirement 15.3.2 Surface discontinuities deeper than 5 % of the speci-
is invoked by the purchaser. fied nominal or actual wall thickness as applicable, except as
defined in 15.3.3 and 15.3.4, shall be removed by the manu-
14. Rework
facturer by machining or grinding to sound metal, and the
repaired areas shall blend smoothly into the contour of the
14.1 When one or more representative test specimens or
finished fitting. Surface discontinuities on fittings conforming
retest specimens do not conform to the requirements specified
to MSS-SP-75 shall be removed or repaired in accordance with
in the product specification for the tested characteristic, the lot
the requirements of that standard. Except for fittings conform-
of material represented by the test specimen may be reworked
ing to MSS-SP-75, the wall thickness at all points shall be at
according to the following requirements.
least the specified minimum wall thickness, or 87 ⁄2 % of the
14.1.1 If previously tested in the untreated condition, the
specified nominal wall thickness and the diameters shall be
product may be reworked by heat treatment, and subsequently
within the limits specified in the applicable dimensional
retested, in accordance with the product specification.
standards.
14.1.2 If previously tested in the heat treated condition, the
product may be reworked by reheat treatm
...

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: A960/A960M − 20 A960/A960M − 23
Standard Specification for
Common Requirements for Wrought Steel Piping Fittings
This standard is issued under the fixed designation A960/A960M; 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.
1. Scope*
1.1 This specification covers a group of common requirements that shall apply to wrought steel piping fittings covered in any of
the following individual product specifications or any other ASTM specification that invokes this specification or portions thereof:
Title of Specification ASTM
Designation
Specification for Piping Fittings of Wrought A234/A234M
Carbon Steel and Alloy Steel for Moderate and
High Temperature Service
Specification for Wrought Austenitic Stainless A403/A403M
Steel Piping Fittings
Specification for Piping Fittings of Wrought Carbon A420/A420M
Steel and Alloy Steel for Low-Temperature Service
Specification for Wrought-Carbon Steel Butt-Welding A758/A758M
Piping Fittings with Improved Notch Toughness
Specification for As-Welded Wrought Austenitic A774/A774M
Stainless Steel Fittings for General Corrosive
Service at Low and Moderate Temperatures
Specification for Wrought Ferritic, Ferritic/Austenitic, A815/A815M
and Martensitic Stainless Steel Piping Fittings
Specification for Heat-Treated Carbon Steel A858/A858M
Fittings for Low-Temperature and Corrosive Service
Specification for Wrought High-Strength A860/A860M
Ferritic Steel Butt-Welding Fittings
1.2 In case of conflict between a requirement of the individual product specification and a requirement of this general requirement
specification, the requirements of the individual product specification shall prevail over those of this specification.
1.3 By mutual agreement between the purchaser and the supplier, additional requirements may be specified (See 4.1.8). The
acceptance of any such additional requirements shall be dependent on negotiations with the supplier and must be included in the
order as agreed upon by the purchaser and supplier.
1.4 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. Within the text and the tables,
the SI units are shown in brackets. 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-conformance with the specification.
The inch-pound units shall apply unless the “M” designation [SI] of the product specification is specified in the order.
1.5 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.
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee A01 on Steel, Stainless Steel and Related Alloys and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee A01.22
on Steel Forgings and Wrought Fittings for Piping Applications and Bolting Materials for Piping and Special Purpose Applications.
Current edition approved March 1, 2020May 1, 2023. Published March 2020May 2023. Originally approved in 1996. Last previous edition approved in 20192020 as
A960/A960M – 19a.A960/A960M – 20. DOI: 10.1520/A0960_A0960M-20.10.1520/A0960_A0960M-23.
*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
A960/A960M − 23
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
A29/A29M Specification for General Requirements for Steel Bars, Carbon and Alloy, Hot-Wrought
A234/A234M Specification for Piping Fittings of Wrought Carbon Steel and Alloy Steel for Moderate and High Temperature
Service
A262 Practices for Detecting Susceptibility to Intergranular Attack in Austenitic Stainless Steels
A370 Test Methods and Definitions for Mechanical Testing of Steel Products
A388/A388M Practice for Ultrasonic Examination of Steel Forgings
A403/A403M Specification for Wrought Austenitic Stainless Steel Piping Fittings
A420/A420M Specification for Piping Fittings of Wrought Carbon Steel and Alloy Steel for Low-Temperature Service
A700 Guide for Packaging, Marking, and Loading Methods for Steel Products for Shipment
A751 Test Methods and Practices for Chemical Analysis of Steel Products
A758/A758M Specification for Wrought-Carbon Steel Butt-Welding Piping Fittings with Improved Notch Toughness
A763 Practices for Detecting Susceptibility to Intergranular Attack in Ferritic Stainless Steels
A774/A774M Specification for As-Welded Wrought Austenitic Stainless Steel Fittings for General Corrosive Service at Low and
Moderate Temperatures
A815/A815M Specification for Wrought Ferritic, Ferritic/Austenitic, and Martensitic Stainless Steel Piping Fittings
A858/A858M Specification for Heat-Treated Carbon Steel Fittings for Low-Temperature and Corrosive Service
A860/A860M Specification for Wrought High-Strength Ferritic Steel Butt-Welding Fittings
A941 Terminology Relating to Steel, Stainless Steel, Related Alloys, and Ferroalloys
A967/A967M Specification for Chemical Passivation Treatments for Stainless Steel Parts
A1058 Test Methods for Mechanical Testing of Steel Products—Metric
E165/E165M Practice for Liquid Penetrant Testing for General Industry
E213 Practice for Ultrasonic Testing of Metal Pipe and Tubing
E709 Guide for Magnetic Particle Testing
E1916 Guide for Identification of Mixed Lots of Metals
2.2 Manufacturer’s Standardization Society Standards:
MSS-SP-25 The Standard Marking System of Valves, Fittings, Flanges and Unions
MSS-SP-43 Standard Practice for Light Weight Stainless Steel Butt-Welding Fittings
MSS-SP-75 Specification for High Test Wrought Butt-Welding Fittings
MSS-SP-79 Socket Welding Reducer Inserts
MSS-SP-83 Class 3000 Steel Pipe Unions, Socket Welding and Threaded
MSS-SP-95 Swage(d) Nipples and Bull Plugs
MSS-SP-97 Integrally Reinforced Forged Branch Outlet Fittings—Socket Welding, Threaded and Buttwelding Ends
2.3 American Society of Nondestructive Testing:
SNT-TC-1A Recommended Practice for Nondestructive Testing Personnel Qualification and Certification
2.4 ASME Standards:
B16.9 Steel Butt-Welding Fittings
B16.11 Forged Steel Fittings, Socket Welding and Threaded
Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code Section IX
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.1.1 bar—a solid section that is long in relationship to its cross sectional dimensions, with a relatively constant cross section
throughout its length. (See Specification A29/A29M for definitions relating to the production of hot wrought and cold finished
bars.)
3.1.2 certifying organization—the company or association responsible for the conformance of, the marking of, and the certification
of the product to the specification requirements.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
Available from Manufacturers Standardization Society of the Valve and Fittings Industry (MSS), 127 Park St., NE, Vienna, VA 22180-4602, http://www.mss-hq.com.
Available from American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT), P.O. Box 28518, 1711 Arlingate Ln., Columbus, OH 43228-0518, http://www.asnt.org.
Available from American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), ASME International Headquarters, Two Park Ave., New York, NY 10016-5990, http://
www.asme.org.
A960/A960M − 23
3.1.3 fitting—a component for non-bolted joints used in piping systems and pressure vessels.
3.1.4 flange—a component for bolted joints used in piping systems and pressure vessels.
3.1.5 forging—the product of a substantially compressive hot or cold plastic working operation that consolidates the material and
produces the required shape.
3.1.5 Discussion—forging—The plastic working must be performed by a forging machine, such as a hammer, press, or ring rolling
machine and must deform the material to produce an essentially wrought structure throughout the material cross section. the
product of a substantially compressive hot or cold plastic working operation that consolidates the material and produces the
required shape.
3.1.5.1 Discussion—
The plastic working must be performed by a forging machine, such as a hammer, press, or ring rolling machine and must deform
the material to produce an essentially wrought structure throughout the material cross section.
3.1.6 longitudinal axis—an axis along the lengthwise direction of the part, bar, pipe or tubing parallel to the direction of the
greatest extension of the steel during rolling, extruding or forging.
3.2 Definitions—For definitions of other terms used in this specification, refer to Terminology A941.
4. Ordering Information
4.1 It is the purchaser’s responsibility to specify in the purchase order all ordering information necessary to purchase the needed
material. Examples of such information include but are not limited to the following:
4.1.1 Quantity,
4.1.2 Description of fitting and nominal dimensions (standard or special),
4.1.3 Steel composition by grade and class designation,
4.1.4 Construction, seamless or welded (unless seamless or welded construction is specified by the purchaser, either may be
furnished at the option of the supplier),
4.1.5 Specification number (including the year/date of issue),
4.1.6 Choice of testing track from the options listed in Test Methods A1058 when material is ordered to an M suffix (SI units)
product standard. If the choice of test track is not specified in the order, then the default ASTM track shall be used as noted in Test
Methods A1058.
4.1.7 Supplementary requirements, and
4.1.8 Additional requirements.
5. Material
5.1 The material for fittings shall consist of forgings, bars, plates and seamless or welded tubular products.
5.2 The steel shall conform to the chemical requirements of the individual product specification and may be made from any
process.
5.3 Ferritic steels shall be fully killed.
5.4 If secondary melting is employed, the heat shall be defined as all ingots remelted from a primary heat.
A960/A960M − 23
6. Manufacture
6.1 Forging or shaping operations may be performed by any of the methods included in the individual product specification.
6.2 Cylindrically shaped parts Parts up to and including NPS 4 may be machined from bar or seamless tubular material provided
the axial lengthlongitudinal axis of the part is approximately parallel to the axial length of the fitting. longitudinal axis of the bar
or tubular material. Elbows, return bends, tees and header tees shall not be machined directly from bar stock.
6.3 Fittings, after forming at an elevated temperature, shall be cooled to a temperature below the critical range under suitable
conditions to prevent injury by cooling too rapidly.
6.4 All classes of fittings shall have the welders, welding operators, and welding procedures qualified under the provision of
Section IX of the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code except that welds from the original pipe manufacturer made without the
addition of filler metal do not require such qualification.
7. Heat Treatment
7.1 Fittings requiring heat treatment shall be treated as specified in the individual product specification using the following
procedures:
7.1.1 Annealing—Fittings shall be uniformly reheated to a temperature above the transformation range and, after holding for a
sufficient time at this temperature, cooled slowly to a temperature below the transformation range.
7.1.2 Solution Annealing (or Solution Treat or Treatment)—Fittings shall be heated to a temperature that causes the carbides to
go into solution and then quenched in water or rapidly cooled by other means to prevent reprecipitation.
7.1.3 Isothermal Annealing—Isothermal annealing shall consist of austenitizing a ferrous alloy and then cooling to and holding
within the range of temperature at which the austenite transforms to a relatively soft ferrite-carbide aggregate.
7.1.4 Normalizing—Fittings shall be uniformly reheated to a temperature above the transformation range and subsequently cooled
in air at room temperature.
7.1.5 Tempering and Post-Weld Heat Treatment—Fittings shall be reheated to the prescribed temperature below the transformation
range, held at temperature for the greater of ⁄2 h or 1 h/in. [25.4 mm] of thickness at the thickest section and cooled in still air.
7.1.6 Stress Relieving—Fittings shall be uniformly heated to the selected stress relieving temperature, held long enough to reduce
stresses and then cooled at a rate that will result in the properties required for the material grade and minimize the development
of new residual stresses. The temperature shall not vary from the selected temperature by more than 6 25 °F [6 14 °C].
7.1.7 Quench and Temper—Fittings shall be fully austenitized and immediately quenched in a suitable liquid medium. The
quenched fittings shall be reheated to a minimum temperature of 1100 °F [590 °C] and cooled in still air.
8. Chemical Requirements
8.1 Chemical Analysis—Samples for chemical analysis and methods of analysis shall be in accordance with Test Methods,
Practices and Terminology A751 for Chemical Analysis of Steel Products.
8.2 Heat Analysis—An analysis of each heat of steel shall be made by the manufacturer to determine the percentages of those
elements specified in the individual product specification. If secondary melting processes are employed, the heat analysis shall be
obtained from one remelted ingot of each primary melt. The chemical analysis thus determined shall conform to the requirements
of the individual product specification. Note that the product analysis (check analysis) tolerances are not to be applied to the heat
analysis requirements.
8.2.1 For steels ordered under product specifications referencing this specification of general requirements, the steel shall not
contain an unspecified element, other than nitrogen for stainless steels, for the ordered grade to the extent that the steel conforms
to the requirements of another grade for which that element is a specified element having a required minimum content. For this
A960/A960M − 23
requirement, a grade is defined as an alloy described individually and identified by its own UNS or grade designation in a table
of chemical requirements within any specification listed within the scope as being covered by this specification.
8.3 Product Analysis—If a product analysis is performed it shall be in accordance with Test Methods, Practices, and Terminology
A751. The chemical composition thus determined shall conform to limits of the product specification, within the permissible
variations of Table 1 of this specification.
8.3.1 Limits on formula calculations involving elemental contents shall apply only to the heat analysis, unless agreed upon
between supplier and purchaser. Where limits on formula calculations involving elemental contents apply to product analysis by
such agreement, permissible variations in the formula calculation results beyond the limits for the heat analysis shall also be agreed
upon between supplier and purchaser. Examples of such formula calculations include, but are not limited to, the following: carbon
equivalent CE = C + Mn/6 + (Cr + Mo + V) / 5 + (Ni + Cu) / 15; J factor = (Mn + Si) × (P + Sn) × 10 ; or requirements for specific
elemental balance or sufficiency, typically related to Ti, Nb, or Al and interstitials C and N, such as Nb = 5 × C minimum.
9. Mechanical Requirements
9.1 Method of Mechanical Test—All tests shall be conducted in accordance with Test Methods and Definitions A370 if the
inch-pound units are specified or Test Methods A1058 if the M suffix (SI Units) standard is specified.
9.2 The test specimen shall represent all material from the same heat and heat treatment load whose maximum thicknesses do not
exceed the thickness of the test specimen or blank by more than ⁄4 in. [6 mm].
9.3 One tension test at room temperature shall be made in accordance with 9.2 from each heat in each heat treatment load.
9.3.1 If heat treatment is performed in either a continuous or batch type furnace controlled within 6 25 °F [6 14 °C] of the
required heat treatment temperature and equipped with recording pyrometers so that complete records of heat treatment are
available, and if the same heat treating cycles are used on the material represented by the tension test, then one tension test from
each heat shall be required, instead of one tension test from each heat in each heat treatment load in accordance with 9.2.
9.4 Retest—When a retest is permitted by the product specification, it shall be performed on twice the number of representative
specimens that were originally nonconforming. When any retest specimen does not conform to the product specification
requirements for the characteristic in question, the lot represented by that specimen shall be rejected or reworked in accordance
with Section 14.
9.4.1 If the results of the tension test do not conform to the requirements specified in the product specification, retests are permitted
as outlined in the test methods specified herein. If the results of any tension test specimen are less than specified because a flaw
becomes evident in the test specimen during testing, a retest shall be allowed provided that the defect is not attributable to ruptures,
cracks, or flakes in the steel.
9.4.2 If the average impact energy value meets the product specification requirements, but one energy value is below the specified
minimum value for individual specimens, a retest is permitted. The retest shall be conducted in accordance with the test methods
specified herein.
9.5 For the purpose of determining conformance to the product specification requirements, specimens shall be obtained from a
finished product, or from production material that is in the same condition of working and heat treatment as the production
material.
10. Hardness Requirements
10.1 The part shall conform to the hardness requirements prescribed in the product specification.
10.2 Sampling for hardness testing shall conform to the product specification.
11. Tensile Requirements
11.1 The part shall conform to the tensile property requirements prescribed in the product specification.
A960/A960M − 23
A
TABLE 1 Product Analysis Tolerances
Element Tolerance Over the
Limit or Maximum of
Maximum Limit or
Specified Range, Wt %
Under the Minimum Limit
Carbon to 0.010, incl 0.002
over 0.010 to 0.030, incl 0.005
over 0.030 to 0.20, icl 0.01
over 0.20 to 0.80, incl 0.02
Manganese to 1.00, incl 0.03
over 1.00 to 3.00, incl 0.04
over 3.00 to 6.00, incl 0.05
over 6.00 to 10.00, incl 0.06
Phosphorous to 0.040, incl 0.005
over 0.040 to 0.20, incl 0.010
Sulfur to 0.040, incl 0.005
over 0.040 to 0.20, incl 0.010
over 0.20 to 0.50, incl 0.020
Silicon to 1.00, incl 0.05
over 1.00 to 3.00, incl 0.10
over 3.00 to 7.00, incl 0.15
Chromium 0.90 and under 0.03
over 0.90 to 2.10, incl 0.05
over 2.10 to 4.00, incl 0.07
over 4.00 to 10.00, incl 0.10
over 10.00 to 15.00, incl 0.15
over 15.00 to 20.00, incl 0.20
over 20.00 to 30.00, incl 0.25
Nickel to 1.00, incl 0.03
over 1.00 to 5.00, incl 0.07
over 5.00 to 10.00, incl 0.10
over 10.00 to 20.00, incl 0.15
over 20.00 to 30.00, incl 0.20
over 30.00 to 40.00, incl 0.25
Molybdenum to 0.20, incl 0.01
over 0.20 to 0.60, incl 0.03
over 0.60 to 2.00, incl 0.05
over 2.00 to 7.00, incl 0.10
Titanium to 1.15, incl 0.05
Niobium (Columbium) to 0.14, incl 0.02
over 0.14 to 5.50 0.05
Tantalum to 0.10 incl 0.02
Copper to 0.50, incl 0.03
over 0.50 to 1.00, incl 0.05
over 1.00 to 5.00, incl 0.10
B
Cobalt 0.05 to 0.25, incl 0.01
0.25 to 5.00, incl 0.07
Nitrogen to 0.02, incl 0.005
over 0.02 to 0.19, incl 0.01
over 0.19 to 0.25 0.02
over 0.25 to 0.35 0.03
over 0.35 to 0.45 0.04
over 0.45 0.05
Aluminum to 0.15, incl –0.005
+0.01
over 0.15 to 0.50, incl 0.05
over 0.50 to 0.80, incl 0.07
Vanadium to 0.10 incl 0.01
over 0.10 to 0.25, incl 0.02
over 0.25 to 0.50, incl 0.03
minimum value specified, 0.01
under minimum limit only
Cerium to 0.20, incl 0.01
Selenium to 0.35, incl 0.001
Tungsten to 0.50, incl 0.02
over 0.50 to 1.00, incl 0.03
over 1.00 to 2.00, incl 0.05
over 2.00 to 4.00, incl 0.06
Lead to 0.35, incl 0.03
Zirconium to 0.01, incl 0.005
Boron to 0.015 incl 0.0005
C
Tin to 0.010, incl
C
Arsenic to 0.010, incl
C
Antimony to 0.003, incl
A
This table does not apply to heat analysis.
B
Product analysis limits for cobalt under 0.05 % have not been established and the
producer should be consulted for those limits.
A960/A960M − 23
C
No over tolerance allowed.
11.2 Sampling for tensile testing shall conform to the product specification.
11.3 When the dimensions of the material to be tested will permit, the tension test specimens shall be machined to the form and
dimensions of the standard 2-in. gauge length tension test specimens described in Test Methods and Definitions A370 if inch-pound
units are specified or the standard 62.5 mm gauge length tension test specimens described in the applicable track of Test Methods
A1058 if SI units are specified.
11.3.1 In the case of small sections, which will not permit taking the standard test specimen described in 11.3, the subsize round
or strip specimen shall be machined as described in the test methods being used. The tension test specimen shall be as large as
feasible.
12. Impact Requirements
12.1 The part shall conform to the impact requirements prescribed in the product specification.
12.2 Sampling for impact testing shall conform to the product specification.
12.3 Notched-bar impact specimens shall be simple-beam, Charpy-type A with a V-notch in accordance with Test Methods and
Definitions A370 if the inch-pound units are specified or Test Methods A1058 if the M suffix (SI Units) standard is specified.
Standard specimens 10 by 10 mm in cross section shall be used unless the material to be tested is of insufficient thickness, in which
case the largest obtainable standard subsize impact specimens shall be used. When the size or shape of the finished fittings is
insufficient to permit obtaining the smallest standard subsize impact specimens, an impact test by the fitting manufacturer will not
be required.
13. Hydrostatic Test Requirements
13.1 Parts manufactured under this specification shall be capable of passing a hydrostatic test compatible with the rating of the
specified matching pipe of equivalent material. Such a test shall be conducted only when specified in the purchase order or when
the hydrostatic test Supplementary Requirement is invoked by the purchaser.
14. Rework
14.1 When one or more representative test specimens or retest specimens do not conform to the requirements specified in the
product specification for the tested characteristic, the lot of material represented by the test specimen may be reworked according
to the following requirements.
14.1.1 If previously tested in the untreated condition, the product may be reworked by heat treatment, and subsequently retested,
in accordance with the product specification.
14.1.2 If previously tested in the heat treated condition, the product may be reworked by reheat treatment, and subsequently
retested, in accordance with the product specification.
15. Surface Finish, Appearance, and Corrosion Protection
15.1 The parts shall conform to the dimensions, tolerances and finish as specified in the purchaser’s order and to the individual
ASTM product specification.
15.2 The finished parts shall be cleaned to remove all scale and processing compounds prior to the final surface examination. The
cleaning process shall not injure the surface finish, material properties, or the metallurgical structure.
15.2.1 The surface finish shall allow the detection of imperfections that can be disclosed by visual inspection.
15.2.2 The cleaned parts shall be protected to prevent recontamination.
A960/A960M − 23
15.2.2.1 Exterior and interior surfaces of carbon, low, and intermediate alloy steel fittings shall have a corrosion protective coating.
Unless otherwise specified by the purchaser, the type of surface protection shall be at the option of the manufacturer.
15.2.2.2 Stainless steel and nickel alloy fittings need not be coated. Unmachined surfaces of stainless steel fittings shall be
passivated by exposure to an acid bath, or electropolished.
15.2.3 Protective coatings on parts subsequently subjected to socket welds or butt welds shall be suitable for welding without
removal of the coating. Threaded fittings shall be capable of installation without the removal of the coating.
15.2.4 When specified in the purchase order, parts may be furnished in the as-formed condition.
15.3 Fittings supplied under this specification shall be examined visually. Selected typical surface discontinuities shall be explored
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