Standard Practice for Sampling Wrought Nonferrous Metals and Alloys for Determination of Chemical Composition

ABSTRACT
This practice covers the sampling, for the determination of chemical composition of nonferrous metals and alloys that have been reduced to their final form by mechanical working; that is, by such means as rolling, drawing, and extruding. The portion selection, sample preparation, sampling details, sample size and storage, and resampling are also detailed.
SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers the sampling, for the determination of chemical composition (Note 1), of nonferrous metals and alloys that have been reduced to their final form by mechanical working; that is, by such means as rolling, drawing, and extruding.  
1.1.1 Refer to Practice E255 for copper and copper alloys.  
Note 1: The selection of correct portions of material and the preparation of a representative sample from such portions are necessary prerequisites to every analysis, the analysis being of no value unless the sample actually represents the average composition of the material from which it was selected.  
1.2 In special cases, when agreed upon by the purchaser and the manufacturer, the heat analysis may be accepted as representative of the composition of the finished product. In such cases, the identity of each heat of metal should be maintained through each stage of the manufacturing process to the final form. This method of sampling is not intended to apply under these conditions.  
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.  
1.4 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.  
1.5 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
31-May-2023

Relations

Effective Date
01-Jan-2020
Effective Date
15-May-2019
Effective Date
15-May-2016
Effective Date
01-Jul-2015
Effective Date
15-May-2015
Effective Date
15-Aug-2014
Effective Date
01-Apr-2014
Effective Date
15-Feb-2014
Effective Date
01-Dec-2013
Effective Date
15-Sep-2011
Effective Date
15-Jun-2011
Effective Date
15-Jan-2011
Effective Date
01-Jul-2010
Effective Date
15-Jan-2010
Effective Date
15-Jan-2010

Overview

ASTM E55-23 is a standard practice developed by ASTM International for the sampling of wrought nonferrous metals and alloys to determine their chemical composition. This practice is focused on materials that have reached their final form through mechanical working processes such as rolling, drawing, and extruding. Accurate and representative sampling is essential for reliable chemical analysis, which is critical for both quality assurance and regulatory compliance in various manufacturing and engineering sectors.

Key Topics

  • Selection of Portions: Guidance on the random selection of representative pieces from lots or shipments to ensure that analyses reflect the true average composition of the material.
  • Sample Preparation: Procedures for preparing samples from various product forms, such as sheets, rods, bars, tubes, and thin materials. Emphasis is placed on practices that minimize alteration or contamination of the sample.
  • Details of Sampling: Instructions for cleaning tools and portions, avoiding contamination, and regulating cutting processes to prevent oxidation or sample degradation.
  • Sample Size and Storage: Recommendations for the amount of material to collect and proper storage methods to protect samples from oxidation and contamination. The standard suggests creating three identical samples for the seller, purchaser, and an umpire, if needed.
  • Resampling Protocol: Outlines steps to follow if either party questions the validity of the results, including resampling in the presence of all stakeholders.
  • Units of Measurement: Specifies that SI units are standard, with other units provided for information only.

Applications

This practice is widely used across industries where precise chemical composition of nonferrous metals and alloys is critical, such as:

  • Aerospace and Automotive Manufacturing: Ensuring that nonferrous alloys meet strict performance and safety criteria.
  • Metallurgical Laboratories: Providing standardized procedures for sample collection prior to chemical analysis.
  • Quality Control: Supporting the traceability and verification of metal batches, reducing the risk of out-of-specification products.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Assisting manufacturers and suppliers in meeting international and customer-specific standards for material composition.
  • Research & Development: Guaranteeing representative samples for accurate experimental results in the development of new alloy formulations.

Related Standards

  • ASTM E255: Provides specific sampling guidance for copper and copper alloys.
  • ASTM E135: Offers terminology and definitions relating to analytical chemistry for metals, ores, and related materials.

Additional referenced standards may relate to the analytical methods used post-sampling or to product-specific requirements.

Practical Value

Using ASTM E55-23 ensures that nonferrous metal samples accurately represent the original lot or batch, supporting reliable chemical composition analysis. This standard helps minimize waste while maximizing sampling accuracy, reduces risk of contamination, and provides clear instructions for sample collection, preparation, storage, and dispute resolution. Adhering to this internationally recognized standard promotes consistency in laboratory practices, supports contractual requirements between buyers and sellers, and helps avoid costly errors or misinterpretations of metal quality.

Keywords

ASTM E55, sampling wrought nonferrous metals, nonferrous alloys, chemical composition, metal analysis, sample preparation, quality control, standard practice for sampling metals.

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Frequently Asked Questions

ASTM E55-23 is a standard published by ASTM International. Its full title is "Standard Practice for Sampling Wrought Nonferrous Metals and Alloys for Determination of Chemical Composition". This standard covers: ABSTRACT This practice covers the sampling, for the determination of chemical composition of nonferrous metals and alloys that have been reduced to their final form by mechanical working; that is, by such means as rolling, drawing, and extruding. The portion selection, sample preparation, sampling details, sample size and storage, and resampling are also detailed. SCOPE 1.1 This practice covers the sampling, for the determination of chemical composition (Note 1), of nonferrous metals and alloys that have been reduced to their final form by mechanical working; that is, by such means as rolling, drawing, and extruding. 1.1.1 Refer to Practice E255 for copper and copper alloys. Note 1: The selection of correct portions of material and the preparation of a representative sample from such portions are necessary prerequisites to every analysis, the analysis being of no value unless the sample actually represents the average composition of the material from which it was selected. 1.2 In special cases, when agreed upon by the purchaser and the manufacturer, the heat analysis may be accepted as representative of the composition of the finished product. In such cases, the identity of each heat of metal should be maintained through each stage of the manufacturing process to the final form. This method of sampling is not intended to apply under these conditions. 1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only. 1.4 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. 1.5 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.

ABSTRACT This practice covers the sampling, for the determination of chemical composition of nonferrous metals and alloys that have been reduced to their final form by mechanical working; that is, by such means as rolling, drawing, and extruding. The portion selection, sample preparation, sampling details, sample size and storage, and resampling are also detailed. SCOPE 1.1 This practice covers the sampling, for the determination of chemical composition (Note 1), of nonferrous metals and alloys that have been reduced to their final form by mechanical working; that is, by such means as rolling, drawing, and extruding. 1.1.1 Refer to Practice E255 for copper and copper alloys. Note 1: The selection of correct portions of material and the preparation of a representative sample from such portions are necessary prerequisites to every analysis, the analysis being of no value unless the sample actually represents the average composition of the material from which it was selected. 1.2 In special cases, when agreed upon by the purchaser and the manufacturer, the heat analysis may be accepted as representative of the composition of the finished product. In such cases, the identity of each heat of metal should be maintained through each stage of the manufacturing process to the final form. This method of sampling is not intended to apply under these conditions. 1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only. 1.4 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. 1.5 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.

ASTM E55-23 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 77.040.30 - Chemical analysis of metals. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.

ASTM E55-23 has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to ASTM E135-20, ASTM E135-19, ASTM E135-16, ASTM E135-15a, ASTM E135-15, ASTM E135-14b, ASTM E135-14a, ASTM E135-14, ASTM E135-13a, ASTM E135-11b, ASTM E135-11a, ASTM E135-11, ASTM E135-10b, ASTM E135-10, ASTM E135-10a. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.

ASTM E55-23 is available in PDF format for immediate download after purchase. The document can be added to your cart and obtained through the secure checkout process. Digital delivery ensures instant access to the complete standard document.

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: E55 − 23
Standard Practice for
Sampling Wrought Nonferrous Metals and Alloys for
Determination of Chemical Composition
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E55; 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 2. Referenced Documents
1.1 This practice covers the sampling, for the determination 2.1 ASTM Standards:
of chemical composition (Note 1), of nonferrous metals and E135 Terminology Relating to Analytical Chemistry for
alloys that have been reduced to their final form by mechanical Metals, Ores, and Related Materials
working; that is, by such means as rolling, drawing, and E255 Practice for Sampling Copper and Copper Alloys for
extruding. the Determination of Chemical Composition (Withdrawn
1.1.1 Refer to Practice E255 for copper and copper alloys. 2023)
NOTE 1—The selection of correct portions of material and the prepa-
3. Terminology
ration of a representative sample from such portions are necessary
prerequisites to every analysis, the analysis being of no value unless the
3.1 For definitions of terms used in this practice, see
sample actually represents the average composition of the material from
Terminology E135.
which it was selected.
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
1.2 In special cases, when agreed upon by the purchaser and
3.2.1 portion, n—the term “portion” is used in this practice
the manufacturer, the heat analysis may be accepted as repre-
to designate the selected pieces of material from which the
sentative of the composition of the finished product. In such
sample is prepared.
cases, the identity of each heat of metal should be maintained
3.2.2 sample, n—the term “sample” is used in this practice
through each stage of the manufacturing process to the final
form. This method of sampling is not intended to apply under to designate the final form of the material submitted for
analysis (drillings, millings, etc.). A representative sample is
these conditions.
defined as a small part containing the same ingredients in the
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as
same proportions as they occur in the original lot or lots of
standard. The values given in parentheses are for information
material.
only.
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the
4. Selection of Portion
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
4.1 A portion representative of the total shipment or order
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
shall be selected at random for the final sample. These portions
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
shall be so taken that minimum wastage of material is incurred,
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
consistent with the required accuracy in sampling.
1.5 This international standard was developed in accor-
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
4.2 Quantities of material withdrawn for sampling shall
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
comply with the requirements of the ASTM standard covering
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
that particular material.
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
4.3 When portions are to be withdrawn from finished
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
material, it is recommended that arrangements be made for
This practice is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E01 on Analytical
Chemistry for Metals, Ores, and Related Materials and is the direct responsibility of For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Subcommittee E01.05 on Cu, Pb, Zn, Cd, Sn, Be, Precious Metals, their Alloys, and contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
Related Metals. Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
Current edition approved June 1, 2023. Published June 2023. Originally the ASTM website.
ɛ1 3
approved in 1946. Last previous edition approved in 2022 as E55 – 11 (2022) . The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on
DOI: 10.1520/E0055-23. www.astm.org.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
E55 − 23
excess length or amount of material to provide the necessary by grinding or other convenient means at approximately right
samples for inspection purposes. angles to the cutting edge. The spacing of the grooves may vary
depending upon the tool and would have to be determined for
4.4 Broken tension test specimens may be used conve-
each application. The grooves in adjacent cutting edges should
niently in place of specially selected portions when such
be staggered.
practice is agreeable to the purchaser.
6.4 Lubricants are not required in the sampling of the
5. Preparation of Sample
majority of wrought metals and alloys. With certain refractory
5.1 Samples of material too thin to be handled conveniently alloys, lubrication may be necessary either to avoid excessive
oxidation of the sample, to reduce power requirements, or to
for machining (drilling, milling, etc.) may be prepared by
clipping. Usually clippings would be limited to material save labor and time. However, the use and choice of a
satisfactory lubricant should be by mutual agreement between
thinner than 1.02 mm (0.040 in.). Drillings, sawings, or
millings shall be taken from mat
...


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.
´1
Designation: E55 − 11 (Reapproved 2022) E55 − 23
Standard Practice for
Sampling Wrought Nonferrous Metals and Alloys for
Determination of Chemical Composition
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E55; 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.
ε NOTE—Editorial changes were made throughout in December 2022.
1. Scope
1.1 This practice covers the sampling, for the determination of chemical composition (Note 1), of nonferrous metals and alloys
that have been reduced to their final form by mechanical working; that is, by such means as rolling, drawing, and extruding.
1.1.1 Refer to Practice E255 for copper and copper alloys.
NOTE 1—The selection of correct portions of material and the preparation of a representative sample from such portions are necessary prerequisites to
every analysis, the analysis being of no value unless the sample actually represents the average composition of the material from which it was selected.
1.2 In special cases, when agreed upon by the purchaser and the manufacturer, the heat analysis may be accepted as representative
of the composition of the finished product. In such cases, the identity of each heat of metal should be maintained through each
stage of the manufacturing process to the final form. This method of sampling is not intended to apply under these conditions.
1.3 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.
1.4 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.
1.5 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.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
E135 Terminology Relating to Analytical Chemistry for Metals, Ores, and Related Materials
E255 Practice for Sampling Copper and Copper Alloys for the Determination of Chemical Composition (Withdrawn 2023)
This practice is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E01 on Analytical Chemistry for Metals, Ores, and Related Materials and is the direct responsibility of
Subcommittee E01.05 on Cu, Pb, Zn, Cd, Sn, Be, Precious Metals, their Alloys, and Related Metals.
Current edition approved Nov. 1, 2022June 1, 2023. Published December 2022June 2023. Originally approved in 1946. Last previous edition approved in 20172022 as
ɛ1
E55 – 11 (2022) (2017). DOI: 10.1520/E0055-11R22E01. DOI: 10.1520/E0055-23.
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.
The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on www.astm.org.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
E55 − 23
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions—For definitions of terms used in this practice, see Terminology E135.
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.2.1 portion, n—thisthe term “portion” is used in this practice to designate the selected pieces of material from which the sample
is prepared.
3.2.2 sample, n—thisthe term “sample” is used in this practice to designate the final form of the material submitted for analysis
(drillings, millings, etc.). A representative sample is defined as a small part containing the same ingredients in the same proportions
as they occur in the original lot or lots of material.
4. Selection of Portion
4.1 A portion representative of the total shipment or order shall be selected at random for the final sample. These portions shall
be so taken that minimum wastage of material is incurred, consistent with the required accuracy in sampling.
4.2 Quantities of material withdrawn for sampling shall comply with the requirements of the ASTM standard covering that
particular material.
4.3 When portions are to be withdrawn from finished material, it is recommended that arrangements be made for excess length
or amount of material to provide the necessary samples for inspection purposes.
4.4 Broken tension test specimens may be used conveniently in place of specially selected portions when such practice is agreeable
to the purchaser.
5. Preparation of Sample
5.1 Samples of material too thin to be handled conveniently for machining (drilling, milling, etc.) may be prepared by clipping.
Usually,Usually clippings would be limited to material thinner than 1.02 mm (0.040 in.). Drillings, sawings, or millings shall be
taken from material of heavier gage.
5.2 Rods, bars, plates, shapes, tubes, and pipes shall be sampled by milling the entire cross-section or by drilling entirely through
the material at several points along thetheir length. Sheets and strips may be folded once or more, by bringing the ends together
and closing the bend; the portion may then be milled on the inside sheared edges or drilled entirely through the flat surface. For
the lighter gages, several portions may be taken and stacked together before folding.
5.3 Equal weightsmass of drillings, millings, sawings, or c
...

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