B09 - Metal Powders and Metal Powder Products

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 This test method allows the nondestructive measurement of the magnetic fraction of the binder phase in cemented carbide powder materials and sintered product, and may be used as an indirect measure of the carbon level in the material or product.  
5.2 Measurement of magnetic saturation provides a comparison of the relative fraction of magnetic binder phase, that is, cobalt, nickel, or iron, present in the material and can be used for acceptance of product to specification.  
5.3 Measurement of magnetic saturation can be used as a measure of the quality of powder material.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers the determination of magnetic saturation (Ms) of cemented carbide powder materials and sintered products using magnetic saturation induction test instrumentation.  
1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. An exception is the use of Gauss-cm3 per gram, which is a longstanding industry practice.  
1.3 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.  
1.4 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.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 Measurement of coercivity provides a relative comparison of carbide grain size, binder content, and possibly carbon deficiency for a given graded carbide material or product, and may be employed as a non-destructive measurement indicating deviation from a specified norm.  
5.2 This test method allows the non-destructive estimate of average carbide grain size in sintered cemented carbide hardmetals. It is appropriate for a wide range of compositions and tungsten carbide (WC) WC grain sizes, and can be used for acceptance of material or product to specification.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers the determination of magnetization coercivity (Hcs) of cemented carbide materials and products using coercive force instrumentation. It is patterned after ISO 3326.  
1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.3 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.  
1.4 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.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 Oil content values are generally contained in specifications for oil-impregnated PM bearings.  
5.2 The oil-impregnation efficiency provides an indication of how well the as-received parts had been impregnated.  
5.3 The desired self-lubricating performance of PM bearings requires a minimum amount of surface-connected porosity and satisfactory oil impregnation of the surface-connected porosity. A minimum oil content is specified.  
5.4 The results from these test methods may be used for quality control or compliance purposes.
SCOPE
1.1 This standard describes three related test methods that cover the measurement of physical properties of oil-impregnated powder metallurgy products.  
1.1.1 Determination of the volume percent of oil contained in the material.  
1.1.2 Determination of the efficiency of the oil-impregnation process.  
1.1.3 Determination of the percent surface-connected porosity by oil impregnation.  
1.2 Units—With the exception of the values for density and the mass used to determine density, for which the use of the gram per cubic centimetre (g/cm3) and gram (g) units is the long-standing industry practice, the values in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses after SI units are provided for information only and are not considered standard.  
1.3 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.  
1.4 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 specification covers ferrous metal injection molded (MIM) materials fabricated by mixing elemental or pre-alloyed metal powders with binders, injecting into a mold, debinding, and sintering with or without subsequent heat treatment. These materials are: low-alloy steel produced from admixtures of iron powder and other alloying elements such as nickel and molybdenum (MIM-2200 and MIM-2700); low-alloy steel produced from admixtures of iron powder and other alloying elements such as nickel, molybdenum, and carbon (MIM-4605); austenitic stainless steel produced from pre-alloyed powder or an admixture of powders (MIM-316L); precipitation hardening stainless steel produced from pre-alloyed powder or an admixture of powders (MIM-17-4 PH); and ferritic stainless steel produced from pre-alloyed powder or an admixture of powders (MIM-430L). Chemical analysis shall be performed for the elements copper, chromium, molybdenum, and nickel. The materials shall be subjected to tensile test and unnotched Charpy impact energy test.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers ferrous metal injection molded materials fabricated by mixing elemental or pre-alloyed metal powders with binders, injecting into a mold, debinding, and sintering, with or without subsequent heat treatment.  
1.2 This specification covers the following injection molded materials.  
1.2.1 Compositions:  
1.2.1.1 MIM-2200, low-alloy steel
1.2.1.2 MIM-2700, low-alloy steel
1.2.1.3 MIM-4605, low-alloy steel
1.2.1.4 MIM-4140, low-alloy steel
1.2.1.5 MIM-316L, austenitic stainless steel
1.2.1.6 MIM-17-4 PH, precipitation hardening stainless steel
1.2.1.7 MIM-420, martensitic stainless steel
1.2.1.8 MIM-430L, ferritic stainless steel
1.2.1.9 MIM-440, martensitic stainless steel
1.2.1.10 MIM-Cu, copper  
1.3 Chemical composition limits are specified in Table 1.  
1.4 With the exception of the values for density and the mass used to determine density, for which the use of the gram per cubic centimetre (g/cm3) and gram (g) units is the longstanding industry practice, the values in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses or in separate tables are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.  
1.5 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.  
1.6 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.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 Both suppliers and users of metals can benefit from knowledge of the skeletal density of these materials. Results of many intermediate and final processing steps are controlled by or related to skeletal density of the metal. In addition, the performance of many sintered or cast metal structures may be predicted from the skeletal density of the starting metal powder, for all or a portion of the finished piece.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers determination of skeletal density of metal powders. The test method specifies general procedures that are applicable to many commercial pycnometry instruments. The method provides specific sample outgassing procedures for listed materials. It includes additional general outgassing instructions for other metals. The ideal gas law forms the basis for all calculations.  
1.2 This test method does not include all existing procedures appropriate for outgassing metal materials. The included procedures provided acceptable results for samples analyzed during an interlaboratory study. The investigator shall determine the appropriateness of listed procedures.  
1.3 Units—With the exception of the values for density and the mass used to determine density, for which the use of the gram per cubic centimetre (g/cm3) and gram (g) units is the longstanding industry practice, the values in SI units are to be regarded as standard.  
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.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 The volume of a complex shaped PM part cannot be measured accurately using micrometers or calipers. Since density is mass per unit volume, a precise method for measuring the volume is needed. Archimedes’ principle may be used to calculate the volume of water displaced by an immersed object. For this to be applicable to PM materials that contain surface connected porosity, the surface pores are sealed by oil impregnation or some other means.  
5.2 The green density of compacted parts or test pieces is normally determined to assist during press set-up, or for quality control purposes. It is also used for determining the compressibility of base powders, mixed powders, and premixes.  
5.3 The sintered density of sintered PM parts and sintered PM test specimens is used as a quality control measure.  
5.4 The impregnated density of sintered bearings is normally measured for quality control purposes as bearings are generally supplied and used oil-impregnated.
SCOPE
1.1 This standard describes a method for measuring the density of powder metallurgy products that usually have surface-connected porosity.  
1.2 The density of impermeable PM materials, those materials that do not gain mass when immersed in water, may be determined using Test Method B311.  
1.3 The current method is applicable to green compacts, sintered parts, and green and sintered test specimens.  
1.4 With the exception of the values for density and the mass used to determine density, for which the use of the gram per cubic centimetre (g/cm3) and gram (g) units is the long-standing industry practice, the values in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses after SI units are provided for information only and are not considered standard.  
1.5 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.  
1.6 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.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 The microstructure of a cemented carbide affects the material's mechanical and physical properties. This guide is not intended to be used as a specification for carbide grades. Producers and users may use the microstructural information as a guide in developing their own specifications.
SCOPE
1.1 This guide covers apparatus and procedures for the metallographic identification of microstructures in cemented carbides.  
1.2 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. Precautions applying to use of hazardous laboratory chemicals should be observed for chemicals specified in Table 1.  
1.3 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.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 Dimensional Change When Compacting and Sintering Metal Powders:  
5.1.1 The dimensional change value obtained under specified conditions of compacting and sintering is a material characteristic inherent in the powder.  
5.1.2 The test is useful for quality control of the dimensional change of a metal powder mixture, to measure compositional and processing changes and to guide in the production of PM parts.  
5.1.3 The absolute dimensional change may be used to classify powders or differentiate one type or grade from another, to evaluate additions to a powder mixture or to measure process changes, and to guide in the design of tooling.  
5.1.4 The comparative dimensional change is mainly used as a quality control test to measure variations between a lot or shipment of metal powder and a reference powder of the same material composition.  
5.1.5 Factors known to affect size change are the base metal powder grade; type and lot; particle size distribution; level and types of additions to the base metal powder; amount and type of lubricant, green density, as well as processing conditions of the test specimen; heating rate; sintering time and temperature; sintering atmosphere; and cooling rate.  
5.2 Dimensional Change of Various PM Processing Steps:  
5.2.1 The general procedure of measuring the die or a test compact before and after a PM processing step, and calculating a percent dimensional change, is also adapted for use as an internal process evaluation test to quantify green expansion, repressing size change, heat treatment changes, or other changes in dimensions that result from a manufacturing operation.
SCOPE
1.1 This standard covers a test method that may be used to measure the sum of the changes in dimensions that occur when a metal powder is first compacted into a test specimen and then sintered.  
1.2 The dimensional change is determined by a quantitative laboratory procedure in which the arithmetic difference between the dimensions of a die cavity and the dimensions of a sintered test specimen produced from that die is calculated and expressed as a percent growth or shrinkage.  
1.3 With the exception of the values for density and the mass used to determine density, for which the use of the gram per cubic centimetre (g/cm3) and gram (g) units is the long-standing industry practice, the values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.  
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.

SCOPE
1.1 This terminology standard includes definitions that are helpful in the interpretation and application of powder metallurgy terms.  
1.2 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.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 The engineering function of many PM parts may require an exterior portion of the part to have a hardened layer. Where case hardening produces a distinct transition in the microstructure, metallographic estimation of the observed case depth may be used to check the depth to which the surface has been hardened.
SCOPE
1.1 A metallographic method is described for estimating the observed case depth of ferrous powder metallurgy (PM) parts. This method may be used for all types of hardened cases where there is a discernible difference between the microstructure of the hardened surface and that of the interior of the part.  
1.2 With the exception of the values for grit size for which the U.S. standard designation is the industry standard, the values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard.  
1.3 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.  
1.4 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.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
3.1 The surface roughness of PM parts is an important characteristic in relation to factors such as their load-bearing, wear, sealing, sliding, adhesion, electrical contact, and lubricant retention properties.  
3.2 Surface roughness may also be critical for component assembly or system performance. Dimensional fit and mating surface interaction may require certain surface roughness requirements to meet performance specifications.
SCOPE
1.1 These test methods cover measuring the surface roughness of powder metallurgy (PM) products at all stages of manufacturing from green compact to fully hardened finished component.  
1.2 These test methods provide the definition and schematic of some common surface roughness parameters (Ra, Rt, and RzISO)  
1.3 This standard specifies two different standardized procedures for measuring the surface roughness of PM parts.  
1.3.1 Method 1 uses a conical stylus and a Gaussian filter.  
1.3.2 Method 2 uses a chisel (knife) edge stylus.  
1.3.3 Each test method results in a different measure of surface roughness and the results are not directly comparable.  
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses after SI units are provided for information only and are not considered standard.  
1.5 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.  
1.6 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.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 This test method covers the evaluation of the tap density physical characteristic of metal powders and related compounds. The measured tap density bears a relationship to the mass of powder that will fill a fixed volume die cavity or other container in situations where the container is tapped, vibrated, or otherwise agitated. The degree of correlation between the results of this test method and the quality of powders in use will vary with each particular application and has not been fully determined.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method specifies a method for the determination of tap density (packed density) of metal powders and compounds, that is, the density of a powder that has been tapped, to settle contents, in a container under specified conditions.  
1.2 Units—With the exception of the values for density and the mass used to determine density, for which the use of the gram per cubic centimetre (g/cm3) and gram (g) units is the long-standing industry practice, the values in SI units are to be regarded as standard.  
1.3 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.  
1.4 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.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 The method of powder dispersion in a liquid has a significant effect on the results of a particle size distribution analysis. The analysis will show a too-coarse, unstable, or nonrepeatable distribution if the powder has not been dispersed adequately. It is therefore important that parties wishing to compare their analyses use the same dispersion technique.  
4.2 This guide provides ways of deriving dispersion techniques for a range of metal powders and compounds. It should be used by all parties performing liquid-dispersed particle size analysis of all of the materials covered by this guide (see 1.1, 1.2, and 4.1).  
4.3 Table 1 provides some dispersion procedures that have been found useful and consistent for the particular materials listed there. These are only suggested dispersion procedures; the procedures and dispersion checks of 7.1.2 – 7.1.4, or the more detailed method development procedures of Guide E3340, should still be used to verify adequate dispersion for each particular material and particle size range. (A) Stated ultrasonic power and duration times are given as an indication only. Specific conditions should be sought for the particular system in question during the method development phase.(B) Tween 21, chemically known as polyoxyethylene6 sorbitan monolaurate, is manufactured by Croda International PLC, and is available from various chemical suppliers.(C) Three to five drops Tween 21 in 30 to 50 mL water.  
4.4 This guide should be used in the preparation of powders for use in Test Methods B761 and B822 and other procedures that analyze metal powder particle size distributions in liquid-dispersed systems.
SCOPE
1.1 This guide covers the dispersion in liquids of metal powders and related compounds for subsequent use in particle size analysis instruments. This guide describes a general procedure for achieving and determining dispersion; it also lists procedures that have been found useful for certain materials.  
1.2 This guide does not include specific procedures for dry dispersion of particulate materials. It only indicates when liquid dispersion is not appropriate and dry dispersion must be utilized (see 7.1.2.1). For guidance on development of methods of dry dispersion, see Guide E3340.  
1.3 This guide is limited to metal powders and related metal compounds. However, the general procedure described herein may be used, with caution as to its significance, for other particulate materials, such as ceramics, pigments, minerals, etc.  
1.4 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.5 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.  
1.6 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.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 This test method enables the measurement of the volume of the apparent density cup to ensure that it complies with the specified volume of 25.00 cm3  ± 0.03 cm3  (cylindrical cup), or 16.39 cm3  ± 0.05 cm3  (square cup). Use of an out-of-specification cup will give erroneous apparent density values using the formulae in Test Methods B212, B329, and B417.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers a procedure for measuring the volume of the apparent density cups used in Test Methods B212, B329, and B417.  
1.2 The apparent density cup, particularly its rim, may become worn during use, and it is recommended that the volume of the cup be checked periodically (at least every 6 months) in order to ensure that it complies with the specified volume.  
1.3 Units—With the exception of the values for density and the mass used to determine density, for which the use of the gram per cubic centimetre (g/cm3) and gram (g) units is the long standing industry practice, the values in SI units are to be regarded as standard.  
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.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 The rate and uniformity of die cavity filling are related to flow properties, which thus influence production rates and uniformity of compacted parts.  
5.2 The ability of a powder to flow is a function of interparticle friction. As interparticle friction increases, flow is slowed. Some powders, often fine powders and lubricated powder mixtures, may not flow through the Hall funnel of Test Method B213. Nevertheless, if a larger orifice is provided, such as in the Carney funnel, a meaningful flow rate may be determined, providing specific information for certain applications.  
5.3 Test Method B213, using the Hall funnel, is the preferred method for determining the flowability of metal powders. The Carney funnel of these test methods should only be used when a powder will not flow through the Hall funnel. These test methods may also be used for comparison of several powders when some flow through the Hall funnel and some do not.  
5.4 Humidity and moisture content influence flow rate. Wet or moist powders may not flow through either the Hall or the Carney funnel.  
5.5 These test methods are based on flow of a specific mass of powder. If flow of a specific volume of powder is preferred, Test Method B855 may be used for powders that flow readily through the Hall funnel.  
5.6 These test methods may be part of the purchase agreement between powder suppliers and powder metallurgy (PM) part producers, or it can be an internal quality control test by either the supplier or the end user.
SCOPE
1.1 These test methods cover the determination of a flow rate, by use of the Carney funnel, of metal powders and powder mixtures that do not readily flow through the Hall funnel of Test Method B213.  
1.2 This is a non-destructive quantitative test performed in the laboratory.  
1.3 With the exception of the values for density and the mass used to determine density, for which the use of gram per cubic centimetre (g/cm3) and gram (g) units is the longstanding industry practice, the values in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only, and are not considered standard.  
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.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 This test method provides a guide for evaluation of an important physical characteristic of a powder known as the apparent density. The measured apparent density bears a relationship to the mass of powder that will fill a fixed volume die cavity. The degree of correlation between the results of this test and the performance of powders during use may vary with each particular application. Note, however, that the presence of moisture, oils, stearic acid, stearates, waxes, and the temperature of the powder mass may alter the physical characteristics of the powder.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers a procedure for determining the apparent density of non-free-flowing metal powders. It is designed for those metal powders that do not freely flow through the Hall flowmeter funnel.  
1.2 Units—With the exception of the values for density and the mass used to determine density, for which the use of the gram per cubic centimeter (g/cm3) and gram (g) units is the long-standing industry practice, the values in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.  
1.3 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.  
1.4 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.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 For PM materials containing less than two percent porosity, a density measurement may be used to determine if the part has been densified, either overall or in a critical region, to the degree required for the intended application. Density alone cannot be used for evaluating the degree of densification because chemical composition and heat treatment affect the pore-free density.  
5.2 For cemented carbides, a density measurement is normally used to determine if there is any significant deviation in composition of the carbide grade. For straight tungsten carbide-cobalt grades, the relationship is straightforward. For complex carbide grades (for example, grades containing tantalum carbide or titanium carbide, or both, in addition to tungsten carbide-cobalt), the situation is more complicated. If the measured density is beyond the specified limits, the composition is outside of the specified limits. A measured density within the specified limits does not ensure correct composition; compensation between two or more constituents could result in the expected density with the wrong composition. Density alone cannot be used for evaluating a cemented carbide grade.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers the determination of density for powder metallurgy (PM) materials containing less than two percent porosity and for cemented carbides. This test method is based on the water displacement method.  
Note 1: A test specimen that gains mass when immersed in water indicates the specimen contains surface-connected porosity. Unsealed surface porosity will absorb water and result in calculated density values higher than the true value. This test method is not applicable if this problem occurs, and Test Methods B962 should be used instead.  
1.2 Units—With the exception of the values for density and the mass used to determine density, for which the use of the gram per cubic centimetre (g/cm3) and gram (g) units is the long-standing industry practice, the values in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses after SI units are provided for information only and are not considered standard.  
1.3 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.  
1.4 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.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 The volumetric flow rate is a measure of the flow characteristics of a metal powder. Measuring flow by volume compared with flow per unit mass eliminates the variable of the powder density and relates to the production practice of die filling by volume.  
5.2 The ability of a powder to flow and pack is a function of interparticle friction. As the surface area increases, the amount of friction in a powder mass also increases. Consequently, the friction between particles increases, giving less efficient flow and packing.  
5.3 Knowledge of the volumetric flow rate permits the part producer to estimate the number of parts that can be compacted per hour.  
5.4 This test may be part of the purchase agreement between metal powder producers and powder metallurgy (PM) part producers, or it can be an internal quality control test for any company using metal powders.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers a laboratory procedure for the quantitative determination of the flow rate of a specific volume of a free-flowing metal powder or lubricated powder mixture.  
1.2 Units—With the exception of the values for mass, volume, and density, for which the use of the gram and the cubic centimetre unit is long-standing industry practice, the values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.  
1.3 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.  
1.4 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 specification covers powder metallurgy (PM) structural components fabricated from commercially pure (CP) (that is, unalloyed) titanium powder, pre-alloyed powders, and mixtures of elemental powders or mixtures of elemental powders and pre-alloyed powders. It addresses ordering information, materials and manufacture, chemical composition requirements, tensile requirements, physical properties, mechanical properties, dimensions, mass, permissible variations, sampling, inspection, and certification.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers powder metallurgy (PM) structural components fabricated from:  
1.1.1 Commercially pure (CP) (that is, unalloyed) titanium powder,  
1.1.2 Pre-alloyed powders.  
1.1.3 Mixtures of elemental powders or mixtures of elemental powders and pre-alloyed powders.  
1.2 This specification covers:  
1.2.1 Grade 1 PM—Unalloyed titanium,  
1.2.2 Grade 2 PM—Unalloyed titanium,  
1.2.3 Grade 3 PM—Unalloyed titanium,  
1.2.4 Grade 4 PM—Unalloyed titanium,  
1.2.5 Grade 5 PM—Titanium alloy (6 % aluminum, 4 % vanadium),  
1.2.6 Grade 9 PM—Titanium alloy (3 % aluminum, 2.5 % vanadium),  
1.2.7 Ti-6Al-4V PM Low Interstitial (LI),  
1.2.8 Ti-6Al-6V-2Sn PM.  
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
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.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 The oxygen content of a powder affects both its green and sintered properties.  
5.2 Hydrogen loss is a term widely used in the powder metallurgy industry even though the measurement represents an approximate oxygen content of the powder.  
5.3 Oxygen is the most common hydrogen-reducible constituent of metal powders, and this procedure may be used as a measure of oxygen, reducible under the test conditions, if other interfering elements are absent.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers the determination of the mass of hydrogen-reducible constituents in the following metal powders: cobalt, copper, iron, and tungsten.  
1.2 This test method is useful for cobalt, copper, and iron powders in the range from 0.05 to 3.0 % oxygen, and for tungsten powder in the range from 0.01 to 0.50 % oxygen.  
1.3 This test method does not measure the oxygen contained in oxides such as silicon oxide (SiO2), aluminum oxide (Al2O3), magnesium oxide (MgO), calcium oxide (CaO), titanium dioxide (TiO2), etc. that are not reduced by hydrogen at the test temperatures.  
1.4 For total oxygen content, vacuum or inert gas fusion methods are available (see Test Methods E1019).  
1.5 Untis—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard.  
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.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 The particle size distribution of a metal powder affects its behavior in PM processing and other applications of these materials. The test method may be part of the purchase agreement between powder supplier and user, or it may be an internal quality control test for either.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers the dry sieve analysis of metal powders, using sieves with openings ranging from 45 to 850 micrometres.  
1.2 This test method is based on a particular type of mechanical sieve shaker (see 5.2). Other types of sieve shakers are also available, but their precision and reproducibility have not been determined.  
1.3 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses after SI units are provided for information only and are not considered standard.  
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.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
3.1 Rockwell hardness testing is one of the more important methods used to evaluate cemented carbides. For compositional groups of cemented carbides, hardness is an indication of wear resistance and toughness. Lower hardness grades usually indicate less wear resistance but greater toughness. For a specific grade of cemented carbide, hardness is an indication of the metallurgical quality of the material. In no case is Rockwell hardness testing the only test method to be considered in evaluating cemented carbides.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers the hardness testing of cemented carbides by use of a Rockwell hardness tester performing tests in the Rockwell HRA scale (regular scale, diamond indenter, 10 kgf (98.07 N) preliminary test force, and 60 kgf (588.4 N) total test force) in the range of Rockwell 80 HRA and above. Also covered are the procedures for the testing and selection of diamond indenters, the management and traceability of the four levels of standardized test blocks, and the making and calibration of Primary, Secondary, and Working standardized test blocks.  
1.2 The Rockwell hardness tester is a convenient and reliable means of measuring the hardness of cemented carbides. A hardness value is obtained easily, but it is subject to considerable error unless certain precautions are observed.  
1.3 The latest version of Test Methods E18 shall be followed, except where otherwise indicated in this test method.  
1.4 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard except that force and length values associated with the Rockwell hardness testers will comply with E18 with force values specified as N (kgf) and indenter length values specified as mm.  
1.5 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.  
1.6 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.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 Test specimens are used to determine the engineering properties of PM materials, for example, tensile strength, ductility, impact energy, etc.; property data that are essential to the successful use of PM material standards. Processing PM test specimens under production conditions is the most efficient method by which to obtain reliable PM material property data since in most cases it is impractical or impossible to cut test bars from sintered parts.  
5.2 The performance characteristics of metal powders, for example, compressibility, green strength and dimensional changes associated with processing are evaluated using PM test specimens under controlled conditions. The data obtained are important to both metal powder producers and PM parts manufacturers.  
5.3 PM test specimens play a significant role in industrial quality assurance programs. They are used to compare properties of a new lot of metal powder with an established lot in an acceptance test and are used in the part manufacturing process to establish and adjust production variables.  
5.4 In those instances where it is required to present equivalent property data for a production lot of PM parts, standard test specimens compacted from the production powder mix to the same green density can be processed with the production PM parts and then tested to obtain this information.  
5.5 Material property testing performed for industrial or academic research and development projects uses standard PM test specimens so the test results obtained can be compared with previous work or published data.  
5.6 Powder metallurgy test specimens may have multiple uses. The dimensions and tolerances given in this standard are nominal in many cases. The user is cautioned to make certain that the dimensions of the test specimen are in agreement with the requirements of the specific test method to be used.
SCOPE
1.1 These standard practices cover the specifications for those uniaxially compacted test specimens that are used in ASTM standards, the procedures for producing and preparing these test specimens, and reference the applicable standards.  
1.2 Basic tool design and engineering information regarding the tooling that is required to compact the test specimens and machining blanks are contained in the annexes.  
1.3 This standard is intended to be a comprehensive one-source document that can be referenced by ASTM test methods that utilize PM test specimens and in ASTM PM material specifications that contain the engineering data obtained from these test specimens.  
1.4 These practices are not applicable to metal powder test specimens that are produced by other processes such as cold isostatic pressing (CIP), hot isostatic pressing (HIP), powder forging (PF) or metal injection molding (MIM). They do not pertain to cemented carbide materials.  
1.5 Detailed information on PM presses, compacting tooling and sintering furnaces, their design, manufacture and use are not within the scope of these practices.  
1.6 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.  
1.7 This standard may involve hazardous materials, operations, and equipment. 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.  
1.8 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.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 Both suppliers and users of metals can benefit from knowledge of the surface area of these materials. Results of many intermediate and final processing steps are controlled by, or related to, specific surface area of the metal. The performance of many sintered or cast metal structures may be predicted from the specific surface area of the starting metal powder, or all or a portion of the finished piece.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers determination of surface area of metal powders. The test method specifies general procedures that are applicable to many commercial physical adsorption instruments. The method provides specific sample outgassing procedures for listed materials. It includes additional general outgassing instructions for other metals. The multipoint equation of Brunauer, Emmett, and Teller (BET),2 along with the single point approximation of the BET equation, forms the basis for all calculations.  
1.2 This test method does not include all existing procedures appropriate for outgassing metallic materials. The procedures included provided acceptable results for samples analyzed during interlaboratory testing. The investigator shall determine the appropriateness of listed procedures.  
1.3 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.3.1 State all numerical values in terms of SI units, unless specific instrumentation software reports surface area using alternate units. In this case, present both reported and equivalent SI units in the final written report. Many instruments report surface area as m2/g, instead of using correct SI units (m2/kg).  
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.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 Cemented carbide materials may contain small voids that, depending on the application, may affect the performance of the product. To assist users in specifying the maximum acceptable level of porosity, this test method illustrates a broad range of porosity levels for each of three porosity types. This test method is not intended to be used as a specification, but the levels shown here may be cited in specifications written by producers and users of cemented carbides.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method specifies procedures for the metallographic determination of apparent porosity in cemented carbides.  
Note 1: The term “apparent porosity” is construed to mean all microstructures observed on a properly prepared, unetched surface, including structures resulting from uncombined carbon, non-metallic inclusions, etc., as well as true, inherent porosity.  
1.2 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.  
1.3 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.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 This test method provides a guide for evaluation of an important physical characteristic of a powder known as the apparent density. The measured apparent density bears a relationship to the mass of powder that will fill a fixed volume die cavity. The degree of correlation between the results of this test and the performance of powders during use may vary with each particular application. Note, however, that the presence of moisture, oils, stearic acid, stearates, waxes, and the temperature of the powder mass may alter the physical characteristics of the powder.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method describes a procedure for determining the apparent density of free-flowing metal powders, and mixed powders; and is suitable for only those powders that will flow unaided through the specified Hall Flowmeter funnel.  
1.2 Units—With the exception of the values for mass, volume, and density, for which the use of the gram and the cubic centimetre units is the long-standing industry practice, the values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.  
1.3 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.  
1.4 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.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 The property KIcSR determined by this test method is believed to characterize the resistance of a cemented carbide to fracture in a neutral environment in the presence of a sharp crack under severe tensile constraint, such that the state of stress near the crack front approaches tri-tensile plane strain, and the crack-tip plastic region is small compared with the crack size and specimen dimensions in the constraint direction. A KIcSR value is believed to represent a lower limiting value of fracture toughness. This value may be used to estimate the relation between failure stress and defect size when the conditions of high constraint described above would be expected. Background information concerning the basis for development of this test method in terms of linear elastic fracture mechanics may be found in Refs (1-7).3  
5.2 This test method can serve the following purposes:  
5.2.1 To establish, in quantitative terms significant to service performance, the effects of fabrication variables on the fracture toughness of new or existing materials, and  
5.2.2 To establish the suitability of a material for a specific application for which the stress conditions are prescribed and for which maximum flaw sizes can be established with confidence.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers the determination of the fracture toughness of cemented carbides (KIcSR) by testing slotted short rod or short bar specimens.  
1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.  
1.3 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.  
1.4 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 specification covers stainless steel powder metallurgy (PM) structural components with minimum densities that are fabricated from prealloyed powder consisting primarily of iron, chromium, nickel, molybdenum, and boron2 and are intended for use in corrosive service. Structural components shall be made by cold pressing and sintering prealloyed powder. The chemical composition; physical properties such as density; and mechanical properties such as tensile strength, elongation and hardness; are detailed.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers stainless steel powder metallurgy (PM) structural components with a 7.7-g/cm3 minimum density that are fabricated from prealloyed powder consisting primarily of iron, chromium, nickel, molybdenum, and boron2 and are intended for use in corrosive service.  
1.2 With the exception of the values for density and the mass used to determine density, for which the use of the gram per cubic centimetre (g/cm3) and gram (g) units is the longstanding industry practice, the values in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.  
1.3 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 specification covers the powder forged ferrous materials fabricated by hot densification of atomized prealloyed or iron powders and intended for use as structural parts. The strcutural parts shall be made by hot forging of powder metallurgy preforms in confined dies with or without subsequent heat treatment. The materials shall conform to the required chemical composition for nickel, molybdenum, manganese, copper, chromium, sulfur, silicon, phosphorus, carbon, and oxygen. The mechanical properties such as yield strength, elongation, Rockwell hardness, impact energy, compressive yield strength and fatigue shal be determined using the tensile test method, Charpy V-notch impact energy test method, and hardness test method. The materials shall conform to the required surface finger oxide penetration, interparticle oxide networks, decarburization depth, and nonmetallic inclusion level.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers powder forged ferrous materials fabricated by hot densification of atomized prealloyed or iron powders and intended for use as structural parts.  
1.2 This specification covers powder forged parts made from the following materials:  
1.2.1 Compositions:  
1.2.1.1 PF-10XX Carbon Steel (produced from atomized iron powder and graphite powder),
1.2.1.2 PF-10CXX Copper-Carbon Steel (produced from atomized iron powder, copper and graphite powders),
1.2.1.3 PF-11XX Carbon Steel with manganese sulfide for enhanced machinability (produced from atomized iron powder, manganese sulfide, and graphite powders),
1.2.1.4 PF-11CXX, PF-1130CXX, and PF-1135CXX Copper-Carbon Steels with manganese sulfide for enhanced machinability (produced from atomized iron powder, copper, manganese sulfide, and graphite powders),
1.2.1.5 PF-42XX Nickel-Molybdenum Steel (produced from prealloyed atomized iron-nickel-molybdenum powder and graphite powder),
1.2.1.6 PF-46XX Nickel-Molybdenum Steel (produced from prealloyed atomized iron-nickel-molybdenum powder and graphite powder),
1.2.1.7 PF-44XX Molybdenum Steel (produced from prealloyed atomized iron-molybdenum powder and graphite powder), and
1.2.1.8 PF-49XX Molybdenum Steel (produced from prealloyed atomized iron-molybdenum powder and graphite powder).  
Note 1: Alloy composition designations are modifications of the AISI-SAE nomenclature. For example: 10CXX designates a plain carbon steel containing copper and XX amount of carbon. Compositional limits of alloy and impurity elements may be different from the AISI-SAE limits. Chemical composition limits are specified in Section 6.
Note 2: XX designates the forged carbon content, in hundredths of a percent, that is specified by the purchaser for the application. For a given specified carbon content, the permissible limits shall be as specified in 6.2.
Note 3: The old acronym for powder forging P/F has been replaced by PF throughout the document. The change in the prefix for the material designations is just to match the currently approved acronym for powder forging. No change has been made to the material specification and performance characteristics for the various powder forged materials.  
1.2.2 Grades:  
1.2.2.1 Grade A—Density equivalent to a maximum of 0.5 % porosity. The minimum density of those sections of the powder forged part so designated by the applicable part drawing shall not be less than the value specified in Table 1.  
1.2.2.2 Grade B—Density equivalent to a maximum of 1.5 % porosity. The minimum density of those sections of the powder forged part so designated by the applicable part drawing shall not be less than the value specified in Table 1.  
1.3 Units—The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system are not necessarily exact equivalents; therefore, to ensure conformance with the standard, each system shall be used independently of the other, and values from the two systems shall not be ...

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 This test method is useful to both producers and purchasers of powders, as outlined in 1.1 and 1.2, in determining particle size distribution for product specifications, manufacturing control, development, and research.  
4.2 Users should be aware that sample concentrations used in this test method may not be what is considered ideal by some authorities, and that the range of this test method extends into the region where Brownian movement could be a factor in conventional sedimentation. Within the range of this test method, neither the sample concentration nor Brownian movement are believed to be significant.  
4.3 Reported particle size measurement is a function of both the actual particle dimension and shape factor as well as the particular physical or chemical properties being measured. Caution is required when comparing data from instruments operating on different physical or chemical parameters or with different particle size measurement ranges. Sample acquisition, handling, and preparation can also affect reported particle size results.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers the determination of particle size distributions of metal powders. Experience has shown that this test method is satisfactory for the analysis of elemental tungsten, tungsten carbide, molybdenum, and tantalum powders, all with an as-supplied estimated average particle size of 6 μm or less, as determined by Test Method B330. Other metal powders (for example, elemental metals, carbides, and nitrides) may be analyzed using this test method with caution as to significance until actual satisfactory experience is developed (see 7.2). The procedure covers the determination of particle size distribution of the powder in the following two conditions:  
1.1.1 As the powder is supplied (as-supplied), and  
1.1.2 After the powder has been deagglomerated by rod milling as described in Practice B859.  
1.2 This test method is applicable to particles of uniform density and composition having a particle size distribution range of 0.1 up to 100 μm.  
1.2.1 However, the relationship between size and sedimentation velocity used in this test method assumes that particles sediment within the laminar flow regime. This requires that the particles sediment with a Reynolds number of 0.3 or less. Particle size distribution analysis for particles settling with a larger Reynolds number may be incorrect due to turbulent flow. Some materials covered by this test method may settle with Reynolds number greater than 0.3 if particles greater than 25 μm are present. The user of this test method should calculate the Reynolds number of the largest particle expected to be present in order to judge the quality of obtained results. Reynolds number (Re) can be calculated using the flowing equation
   where
   D  =  the diameter of the largest particle expected to be present,   ρ  =  the particle density,   ρ0  =  the suspending liquid density,   g  =  the acceleration due to gravity, and   η  =   is the suspending liquid viscosity.  
A table of the largest particles that can be analyzed with Reynolds number of 0.3 or less in water at 35°C is given for a number of metals in Table 1. A column of the Reynolds number calculated for a 30–μm particle sedimenting in the same liquid system is given for each material also.  
1.3 Units—With the exception of the values for density and the mass used to determine density, for which the use of the gram per cubic centimetre (g/cm3) and gram (g) units is the longstanding industry practice, the values in SI units are to be regarded as standard.  
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. Specific hazard information is given in Section 7.  
1.5 ...

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 The microstructure and grain growth of cemented tungsten carbides affect the material's mechanical and physical properties. The grain size and distribution will affect the material's wear resistance and fracture toughness. Abnormally large grains as compared to the background may introduce an area of weakness in a sintered part.  
5.2 This test method may be used in acceptance testing of cemented tungsten carbide materials or the tungsten carbide powder used in their manufacture. The specified grain size used for the E-Rating is to be agreed upon between purchaser and supplier.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method describes a procedure for measuring abnormally large grains and the frequency of those grains in cemented tungsten carbides (hardmetals).  
1.2 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.  
1.3 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.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 The apparent density is an important measure of a material characteristic of the powder that is useful to the powder producers and powder users in determining quality and lot to lot consistency.  
5.2 This test method is applicable to free-flowing and non-free-flowing metal powders, lubricated powder mixtures and metal compounds.  
5.3 The apparent density of a lubricated metal powder mixture may be different when a quantity settles after falling into the die cavity during automated compacting compared with the value obtained from a measurement taken in the laboratory under controlled test conditions.  
5.4 This test method simulates the action of the feed shoe on a powder compacting press and gives an apparent density value that closely approximates the apparent density of the powder in the die cavity after the production filling operation.  
5.5 Knowledge of this apparent density value for the final lubricated production powder mixture is very helpful to the powder metallurgy (PM) parts fabricator to set the compression ratios for fixed fill die cavity tooling.  
5.6 The values of apparent density obtained on metal powders with this test method are approximately 0.2 g/cm3 higher than those obtained using the Hall Funnel, Test Method B212, the Carney Funnel, Test Method B417; or the Scott Volumeter, Test Method B329.  
5.7 This test method may be part of a purchase agreement between the powder producer and PM parts producer, or it may be an internal quality control test for either party.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers a quantitative laboratory procedure for determining the apparent density of both free-flowing and non-free-flowing metal powders, lubricated metal powder mixtures, and powder compounds.  
1.2 Units—With the exception of the values for mass, volume, and density, for which the use of the gram and the cubic centimetre units is the long-standing industry practice, the values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.  
1.3 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.  
1.4 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.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 Refractory metal powders, such as tungsten and molybdenum, are usually produced by hydrogen reduction at high temperatures. Thus, they usually contain numerous large, strongly-sintered agglomerates. Many of the manufacturing processes using these powders involve a milling step or some similar treatment or depend on the individual particulate size, not on the agglomerate size.3 Thus, a knowledge of the individual particulate size distribution, not the agglomerate size distribution, is usually desired from a particle size analysis of these powders. This practice provides a procedure for breaking down agglomerates into their constituent particles (de-agglomeration), without excessive fracture of the individual particles. The procedure is often referred to as laboratory milling or rod milling.  
4.2 The laboratory milling conditions specified in this guide have been in use since 1965, initially as part of a particle size analysis test method. This guide was first published as a separate, stand-alone standard in 1995 because of its applicability in preparing powder samples for analysis by other methods as well (for example, Test Methods B761 and B822). Information on the development and establishment of the milling conditions here specified can be found in the footnoted reference.4  
4.3 The milling procedure described in this practice does not necessarily break down only agglomerates without fracturing individual particles; some particle fracture may occur in certain powders. However, use of this practice does  provide consistent particle size analysis results that have been found to relate well to powder behavior in numerous manufacturing processes.  
4.4 This practice shall be used for the de-agglomeration of the refractory metal powders and compounds listed in 1.2, when an evaluation of the individual particulate size distribution is required from the subsequent particle size analysis. It shall not be used when the agglomerate (as-is or as-supplied) size distr...
SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers the de-agglomeration of refractory metal powders and their compounds in preparation for particle size analysis.  
1.2 Experience has shown that this practice is satisfactory for the de-agglomeration of elemental tungsten, molybdenum, rhenium, and tantalum metal powders, and tungsten carbide. Other metal powders (for example, elemental metals, carbides, and nitrides) may be prepared for particle size analysis using this practice with caution as to effectiveness until actual satisfactory experience is developed.  
1.3 Units—With the exception of the values for mass, for which the use of the gram (g) unit is the long-standing industry practice, the values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measure are included in this standard.  
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. For specific precautionary statements, see Note 2.  
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 specification covers sintered aluminium structural parts made primarily from aluminum powders to which controlled amounts of master alloys or elemental copper, magnesium, and silicon have been added by blending. Structural parts shall be made by molding and sintering metal powders to produce finished parts conforming to the requirements of this specification. Chemical composition of copper, magnesium, and silicon content, as well as the density of the material shall conform to the requirements specified. Tests for the determination of the mechanical properties such as ultimate tensile strength, tensile yield strength, elongation and apparent Rockwell hardness of the material shall be performed.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers aluminum powder metallurgy structural parts made using admixed materials.  
1.2 This specification covers a material designation code that includes the chemical composition of the material, its guaranteed minimum 0.2 % offset yield strength or ultimate tensile strength, and the temper condition of the material.  
1.3 Units—With the exception of density values for which the g/cm3 unit is the industry standard, property values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. Values in SI units result from conversion, are only for information, and are not considered standard.  
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 specification covers the standard requirements for porous metallic sleeve, flange, thrust, and spherical iron-base bearings that are produced from mixed metal powder metallurgy technology and then impregnated with oil to supply operating lubrication. Porous iron-base bearings shall be produced by compaction of a mixture of elemental iron powder and copper, tin, pre-alloyed bronze or graphite powders and sintering in a furnace having a protective atmosphere at a specified time and temperature cycle. The interconnected or open porosity in the bearings shall be filled to the required volume either by an extended soaking in hot oil or preferably by a vacuum impregnation operation with lubricating oil which is a high-grade turbine oil with antifoaming additives and containing corrosion and oxidation inhibitors. Each of the iron-base bearing material shall conform to the chemical composition requirements for iron, carbon, graphite, copper, and tin as shall be determined by chemical analysis. The physical properties for each of the bearing material shall be within the prescribed wet density, oil content, and impregnation efficiency limits. The radial crushing strength and bearing breaking load of the oil-impregnated bearing material determined on a plain sleeve bearing or a test specimen prepared from a flange or spherical bearing shall also meet the minimum and maximum mechanical strength values.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers the requirements for porous iron-base metallic sleeve, flange, thrust, and spherical bearings that are produced from metal powders utilizing powder metallurgy (PM) technology and then impregnated with oil to supply operating lubrication.  
1.2 Listed are the chemical, physical, and mechanical specifications for those standardized ferrous PM materials that have been developed specifically for the manufacture of self-lubricating bearings.  
1.3 This specification is a companion to Specification B438 that covers the requirements for porous oil-impregnated bronze-base bearings.  
1.4 Typical applications for self-lubricating iron-base PM bearings are discussed in Appendix X1.  
1.5 Commercial bearing dimensional tolerance data are shown in Appendix X2, while engineering information regarding installation and operating parameters of PM bearings is included in Appendix X3. Additional useful information on self-lubricating bearings can be found in MPIF Standard 35 (Bearings), ISO 5755, and the technical literature.2  
1.6 Units—With the exception of the values for density and the mass used to determine density, for which the use of the gram per cubic centimetre (g/cm3) and gram (g) units is the long-standing practice of the PM industry, the values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not to be regarded as standard.  
1.7 The following safety hazards caveat pertains only to the test methods described in this specification. 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.  
1.8 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.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 The radial crushing strength test is a destructive procedure used to determine a material strength characteristic of PM bearings and hollow cylindrical test specimens. These data can be used to grade, classify, and evaluate the materials.  
5.2 The PM bearing Specifications B438 and B439 require the use of this test method as an acceptance test for the strength of oil-impregnated sintered bearings.  
5.3 This test method may be used by powder producers and parts manufacturers as a lot acceptance test for metal powders and lubricated powder mixtures intended for the production of porous parts.  
5.4 Companies in the PM industry use this test as a manufacturing control test because it is appropriate for production practices.  
5.5 Radial crushing strength is a property of the PM material but is not a design value. However, experience has shown that the radial crushing strength of a material is approximately twice the ultimate tensile strength.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers the equipment and laboratory procedure for the determination of the radial crushing strength of materials using either a plain powder metallurgy (PM) bearing or a thin-walled hollow cylindrical test specimen. This is a destructive test that produces quantitative results.  
1.2 Limitations:  
1.2.1 The principle of this procedure is based on the material being tested having minimal ductility. The permanent deflection of the cylinder during the test should not exceed 10 % of the outside diameter.  
1.2.2 The radial crushing strength test results should be used only as a guide if the test specimen has a wall thickness that is greater than one-third of the outside diameter. These test results should then only be used for comparison with data from the test specimens of like materials and similar dimensions.  
1.3 Units—With the exception of the values for density and the mass used to determine density, for which the use of the gram per cubic centimetre (g/cm3) and gram (g) units are the industry standard, the values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.  
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.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 The engineering function of many PM parts may require an exterior portion of the part to have a specified case depth and microindentation hardness. Measurement of effective case depth is used to determine the depth to which the microindentation hardness of the exterior portion of a part has been increased over that of the interior of the part.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers a procedure for determination of the effective case depth of powder metallurgy (PM) parts.  
1.2 A microindentation hardness traverse procedure is described to determine effective case depth. This test method may be used to determine the effective case depth for all types of hardened cases.  
1.3 The procedure for determining the microindentation hardness of powder metallurgy materials, as described in Test Method B933, shall be followed.  
1.4 Units—With the exception of the unit for density, for which the grams per cubic centimeter unit is the long-standing industry practice, the values in SI units are to be regarded as standard.  
1.5 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.  
1.6 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 specification covers sintered bronze, oil-impregnated bearings made primarily from elemental copper, tin, lead, and graphite powders. This specification covers the following variables: Grades (available in three bronze base compositions identifiable by different graphite contents and one leaded bronze grade) and Type (Grades 1 and 2 are available in four types described by specific density ranges. Grade 3 is available in two types and Grade 4 is available in one type). Sintered bronze bearings shall be made by molding or briquetting metal powder mixtures to the proper density. The material shall conform to the required chemical composition for copper, tin, graphite, iron, lead, zinc, nickel, and antimony. The density of bearings supplied impregnated with lubricant shall be within the prescribed limits. Oil content of bearings shall not be less than the prescribed value for each grade and type of material. The material of different grades and types shall conform to the prescribed radial crushing strength requirements. An acceptance specification for the minimum bearing breaking load may be established for any specific standard oil-impregnated bearing. Chemical analysis shall be made for each representative sample of chips, which may be obtained by milling, drilling, filing, or crushing a bearing with clean dry tools without lubrication.
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1.1 This specification covers porous metallic sleeve, flange, thrust, and spherical bronze-base bearings that are produced from mixed metal powders utilizing powder metallurgy (PM) technology and then impregnated with oil to supply operating lubrication.  
1.2 Included are the specifications for the chemical, physical, and mechanical requirements of those bronze-base PM materials that have been developed and standardized specifically for use in the manufacture of these self-lubricating bearings.  
1.3 This specification is applicable to the purchase of bronze-base bearings (oil-impregnated) that were formerly covered by military specifications and are intended for government or military applications. Those additional government requirements that only apply to military bearings are listed in the Supplementary Requirements section of this specification.  
1.4 This specification accompanies Specification B439 that covers the requirements for Iron-Base Powder Metallurgy (PM) Bearings, (Oil-Impregnated).  
1.5 Typical applications for bronze-base bearings are listed in Appendix X1.  
1.6 Bearing dimensional tolerance data are shown in Appendix X2, while engineering information regarding installation and operating parameters of PM bearings is included in Appendix X3. Additional useful information on self-lubricating bearings can be found in MPIF Standard 35, ISO 5755 and the technical literature.2  
1.7 With the exception of the values for density and the mass used to determine density, for which the use of the gram per cubic centimetre (g/cm3) and gram (g) units is the industry standard, the values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.  
1.8 The following safety hazards caveat pertains only to the test methods described in this specification. 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.  
1.9 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.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
3.1 This test method is used as a means of determining the quality of cemented carbide grade powders by measuring their sintered strength. It is performed on test specimens prepared to specified shape, dimensions, and surface finish; test specimens may be prepared from finished parts if size permits. There is no known standard material for this test method. The transverse rupture strength of cemented carbides is not a design value.  
3.1.1 Most commercial cemented carbides have mechanical behavior that is best classified as brittle (negligible ductility). Fracture strengths are dependent on internal or surface flaws. Examples of incoherent internal flaws are macropores, Type B porosity (see Test Method B276), and inclusions of foreign particles. Such flaws are randomly distributed spatially and in size within the sintered material. This imparts a statistical nature to any transverse rupture strength measurement.  
3.1.2 The stress distribution in a beam in three-point loading is non-uniform. It increases linearly along the span to a maximum at the center, and varies linearly through any section from compression on the top to tension on the bottom. The maximum tensile stress therefore occurs at center span in the bottom most fibers of the sample, and is defined as the transverse rupture strength at failure. Failure is initiated at a random flaw site, which is most probably not coincident with the maximum stress. This imparts an additional statistical nature to transverse rupture strength measurements.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method2 covers the determination of the transverse rupture strength of cemented carbides.  
1.2 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as the standard. The SI values in parentheses are provided for information only.  
1.3 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.  
1.4 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.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 Specifications and test methods for metal powders and metal powder products require the sampling, testing, and performance evaluation of small samples taken from large quantities of powder. The sampling procedure is equally as important as the testing and evaluation; the sampling methods used must include every precaution to ensure that the samples obtained will show the true nature and condition of the large powder quantity that they represent.  
4.2 The primary objective of any sampling procedure is to obtain a small quantity of material that is truly representative of the larger amount from which it is taken, a condition that is readily comprehended but difficult to define, quantify, and prove. Certain criteria are desirable to meet this condition:3  
4.2.1 Every sampling increment should have a non-zero probability of being selected.  
4.2.2 All increments should have an equal probability of being selected.  
4.2.3 The sampling procedure should not alter the material (for example, by changing the particle size or chemical composition).  
4.3 Sampling a moving powder helps to satisfy these criteria; therefore, Practice 1A should be used whenever possible to obtain the composite sample. Similarly, Practice 2 should be used to obtain the test portions; use of a spinning riffler is preferred when possible and practicable.  
4.4 Although not always meeting all the criteria of 4.2.1 – 4.2.3, the other sampling practices described in this standard are based on time-proven experience in the PM industry in sampling granular metal powders. These practices have been shown to produce samples that give reliable and representative evaluation data.  
4.5 Since many tests are performed using very small amounts of powder meant to represent much larger quantities, it is most important that the test portions be obtained in a standardized manner. The practices described here take into account the possibility of segregation of the metal powder during and after filling of ...
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1.1 These practices cover sampling methods used to collect a small quantity of metal powder that is as representative of the entire starting material as possible, and detail the procedures that are recommended for reducing this quantity into smaller test portions on which chemical, physical, and mechanical property data may be determined.  
1.2 Several sampling practices are described, depending on their applicability to the conditions of storage and transport of the sampled powders:  
1.2.1 Practice 1A (Described in Section 6)—Applicable to sampling moving powders, as when being transferred from one container to another or to a process stream; or when falling from a conveyor; or in a moving process stream. This is the preferred practice for obtaining the several increments that are combined to form the gross sample.  
1.2.2 Practice 1B (Described in Section 7)—Applicable to sampling powders that have already been packaged for transport, as in a bag or drum. A hollow tubular slot sampler is the recommended way to sample these packaged powders to obtain the increments (7.1.1). Alternatively, when other methods are not possible or available, a procedure specified here (7.1.2) may be used to randomly scoop samples from the powder, using a scoop of specified material and configuration.  
1.2.3 Practice 2 (Described in Section 8)—Applicable to obtaining test portions from the composite sample. For larger quantities of powder, a chute splitter is generally used, while a spinning riffler is used for smaller quantities.  
1.3 These practices apply to particulate materials or mixtures of particulates with particle sizes generally less than one millimetre and include mixtures containing lubricant, with or without other non-metallic additives, that are ready for compacting.  
1.4 These practices do not cover the sampling of flake powders or pastes. For procedures on the sampling and testing of flake metal powders and pastes, ...

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 Microindentation hardness testing provides a measure of the hardness of the microstructural constituents of a porous material. It indicates the hardness the material would have if there were no pores present and the material was tested using macroindentation hardness methods. Loads are limited to a maximum of 200 gf to reduce the likelihood of interference from the porosity.  
5.2 Microindentation hardness tests allow the evaluation of specific phases, microstructural constituents, and regions or gradients too small for macroindentation hardness testing.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers the determination of the microindentation hardness of powder metallurgy (PM) materials. The test method differs from the approach used for pore-free materials in terms of the precautions required to deal with the porosity.  
1.2 This procedure covers tests made with the Knoop or Vickers indenters under loads in the range from 1 to 200 gf.  
1.3 Automated testing is not generally suitable for use with porous PM materials, because acceptable indentations require avoiding placing indentations in the immediate vicinity of a pore, a condition not guaranteed with automated placement of the indentations. Any automated testing shall allow for review of indentations post-test to reject any distorted or unusually large indentations in accordance with 9.4.  
1.4 A method for converting the directly measured indentation lengths to other hardness scales, for example, HRC is described in Appendix X1.  
1.5 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.  
1.6 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.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 These test methods provide procedures for determining the envelope-specific surface area of powders, from which is calculated an “average” particle diameter, assuming the particles are monosize, smooth surface, nonporous, spherical particles. For this reason, values obtained by these test methods will be reported as an average particle size or Fisher Number. The degree of correlation between the results of these test methods and the quality of powders in use will vary with each particular application and has not been fully determined.  
4.2 These test methods are generally applicable to all metal powders and related compounds, including carbides, nitrides, and oxides, for particles having diameters between 0.2 and 75 μm (MIC SAS) or between 0.5 and 50 μm (FSSS). They should not be used for powders composed of particles whose shape is too far from equiaxed - that is, flakes or fibers. In these cases, it is permissible to use the test methods described only by agreement between the parties concerned. These test methods shall not be used for mixtures of different powders, nor for powders containing binders or lubricants. When the powder contains agglomerates, the measured surface area may be affected by the degree of agglomeration. Methods of de-agglomeration such as that specified in Practice B859 may be used if agreed upon between the parties concerned.  
4.3 When an “average” particle size of powders is determined either the MIC SAS or the FSSS, it should be clearly kept in mind that this average size is derived from the determination of the specific surface area of the powder using a relationship that is true only for powders of uniform size and spherical shape. Thus, the results of these methods are only estimates of average particle size.
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1.1 These test methods use air permeability to determine an envelope-specific surface area and its associated average equivalent spherical diameter (from 0.2 to 75μm) of metal powders and related compounds. The powders may be analyzed in their “as-supplied” (shipped, received, or processed) condition or after they have been de-agglomerated or milled by a laboratory procedure (“lab milled”) such as that specified in Practice B859. The values obtained are not intended to be absolute but are generally useful on a relative basis for control purposes.  
1.2 Units—With the exception of the values for density and the mass used to determine density, for which the use of the gram per cubic centimetre (g/cm3) and gram (g) units is the longstanding industry practice; and the units for pressure, cm H2O - also long-standing practice; the values in SI units are to be regarded as standard.  
1.3 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.  
1.4 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.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 The ability of sintered powder metallurgy stainless steel parts/specimens to resist corrosion when immersed in sodium chloride solution is important to their end use. Causes of unacceptable corrosion may be incorrect alloy, contamination of the parts by iron or some other corrosion-promoting material or improper sintering of the parts (for example, undesirable carbide and nitride formations caused by poor lubricant burnoff or improper sintering atmosphere).  
5.2 This standard may be part of a purchase agreement between the PM parts producer and the purchaser of the parts (Method 1). It may also be used to optimize part or specimen production parameters (Method 2).
SCOPE
1.1 These test methods cover a procedure for evaluating the ability of sintered PM stainless steel parts/specimens to resist corrosion when immersed in a sodium chloride (NaCl) solution.  
1.2 Corrosion resistance is evaluated by one of two methods. In Method 1, the stainless steel parts/specimens are examined periodically and the time to the first appearance of staining or rust is used to indicate the end point. In Method 2, continued exposure to the sodium chloride solution is used to monitor the extent of corrosion as a function of time.  
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
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.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 This test method allows the determination of the chemical composition of powdered and sintered tungsten-based hardmetals. This test method is not applicable to material which will not oxidize readily at high temperatures in air, such as tungsten/copper, tungsten/silver alloys, or tungsten/cobalt-ruthenium alloys.  
5.2 This test method specified lithium-borate compounds for the glass fusion material. However, numerous other choices are available. These include other lithium-borate compounds, sodium carbonate and borate mixtures, and others. The methodology specified here is still applicable as long as the same fusion mixture is used for both standards and specimens.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method describes a procedure for the determination of the concentration, generally reported as mass percent, of the metallic constituents of tungsten-based alloys and hardmetals utilizing wavelength dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (XRF). This test method incorporates the preparation of standards using reagent grade metallic oxides, lithium-borate compounds, and fusion techniques. This test method details techniques for preparing representative specimens of both powder and sintered tungsten-based material. This test method is accurate for a wide range of compositions, and can be used for acceptance of material to grade specifications.  
1.2 This test method is applicable to mixtures of tungsten or tungsten carbide with additions of refractory metal carbides and binder metals. Table 1 lists the most common elemental constituents and their concentration range. Note that many of these occur as metallic carbides.    
1.3 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.  
1.4 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.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 The purpose of this test method is to determine the amount of gangue, refractory, inert, etc. materials, that may adversely affect compacting tools and sintered properties of components formed from copper and iron powders.  
4.2 The insoluble matter consists of those nonmetallic substances that do not dissolve in the mineral acid used to dissolve the metal. In copper powder, which is treated with nitric acid, the acid-insoluble matter includes silica, insoluble silicates, alumina, clays, and other refractory materials that may be introduced either as impurities in the raw material or from the furnace lining, fuel, etc.; lead sulfate may also be present. In iron powder, which is treated with hydrochloric acid, the insoluble matter may include carbides in addition to the substances listed above. The test method excludes insoluble material that is volatile at the ignition temperature specified.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method2 covers the determination of the mineral-acid-insoluble matter content of copper and iron powders in amounts under 1.0 %.  
1.2 Units—With the exception of the values for density and the mass used to determine density, for which the use of the gram per cubic centimetre (g/cm3) and gram (g) units is the longstanding industry practice, the values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard.  
1.3 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.  
1.4 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.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 Reported particle size measurement is a function of both the actual particle dimension and shape factor as well as the particular physical or chemical properties being measured. Caution is required when comparing data from instruments operating on different physical or chemical parameters or with different particle size measurement ranges. Sample acquisition, handling, and preparation can also affect reported particle size results.  
5.1.1 It is important to recognize that the results obtained by this test method, or any other method for particle size determination using different physical principles, may disagree. The results are strongly influenced by the physical principles employed by each method of particle size analysis. The results of any particle sizing method should be used only in a relative sense; they should not be regarded as absolute when comparing results obtained by other methods.  
5.2 Light scattering theory has been available for many years for use in the determination of particle size. Several manufacturers of testing equipment now have units based on these principles. Although each type of testing equipment uses the same basic principles for light scattering as a function of particle size, different assumptions pertinent to application of the theory, and different models for converting light measurements to particle size, may lead to different results for each instrument. Therefore, the use of this test method cannot guarantee directly comparable results from different types of instruments.  
5.3 Knowledge of the particle size distribution of metal powders is useful in predicting the powder-processing behavior and ultimate performance of powder metallurgy parts. Particle size distribution is related closely to the flowability, moldability, compressibility, and die-filling characteristics of a powder, as well as to the final structure and properties of finished powder metallurgy (P/M) parts.  
5.4 This test method is useful to both suppli...
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1.1 This test method covers the determination of the particle size distribution by light scattering, reported as volume percent, of particulate materials including metals and compounds.  
1.2 This test method applies to analyses with both aqueous and nonaqueous dispersions. In addition, analysis can be performed with a gaseous dispersion for materials that are hygroscopic or react with a liquid carrier.  
1.3 This test method is applicable to the measurement of particulate materials in the range of 0.4 to 2000 μm, or a subset of that range, as applicable to the particle size distribution being measured.  
1.4 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.5 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.  
1.6 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.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 This test method is used to measure the strength of sintered, including post-treated, specimens. Transverse rupture strength is not a design value. For many sintered materials, transverse rupture strength is approximately twice the ultimate tensile strength.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers determination of the transverse rupture strength of sintered, including post-treated, powder metallurgy test specimens by subjecting them to a uniformly increasing transverse force under controlled conditions. The term “transverse rupture strength” as used herein, defines the stress, calculated from the flexure formula required to break a specimen as a simple beam supported near the ends and applying the force midway between the fixed line center of the supports.  
1.2 Limitations—The transverse rupture test is only applicable to relatively brittle materials. In cases where a ductile specimen is being tested and the permanent deflection as a result of testing exceeds 0.02 in. (0.5 mm), the test results may be questionable.  
1.3 Test Method B406 should be consulted for determining the transverse rupture strength of cemented carbides.  
1.4 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.  
1.5 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.  
1.6 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.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 The compressibility value obtained by this test is a measure of a material characteristic of the powder.  
5.2 The test method is useful in research and development projects, as a quality control test in the evaluation and manufacturing control of metal powder production, and as an acceptance test for shipment of metal powder lots.  
5.3 In PM production operations, the test is helpful in determining pressing and tooling requirements for high density parts.  
5.4 Results may be affected by test conditions such as the type, amount, and method of lubrication, dwell time during compaction, and die material. The compressibility values may not necessarily agree with results obtained under production conditions.
SCOPE
1.1 This laboratory test method covers the determination of the compressibility of metal powders and metal powder mixtures as measured by the extent to which a test portion can be densified under controlled conditions in a specified die.  
1.2 Units—With the exception of the values for density and mass, for which the use of gram per cubic centermetre (g/cm3) and gram (g) units is the longstanding industry practice, the values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.  
1.3 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.  
1.4 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.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 The performance and quality of steam-treated materials depends upon the surface cleanliness of the material prior to steam treatment and the adequacy of the processing. Steam treatment can be used as a decorative coating, producing a blue-gray to a blue-black appearance. It can reduce the susceptibility of ferrous PM materials to further oxidation and corrosion, thus providing better shelf life. More significantly, improvements in apparent hardness, compressive strength, wear characteristics, and some mechanical properties (see Appendix X1) can be observed due to steam treatment. The hardness of magnetite (Fe3O4) formed during steam treatment is typically equivalent to 50 HRC, and when present in sintered materials, their wear resistance can be improved significantly. Steam treatment is also used to seal parts or provide a base material for additional coatings. Steam treated ferrous PM materials are used in many industries, including automotive, marine, home appliances, and lawn and garden applications.
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1.1 This guide is intended as an aid in establishing and maintaining a procedure for the steam treatment, also referred to as steam blackening, of sintered ferrous PM materials and the appropriate use and evaluation of these materials. Additional information concerning the effect of this process on ferrous PM material properties is contained in Appendix X1.  
1.2 Units—With the exception of the values for density and the mass used to determine density, for which the use of the gram per cubic centimetre (g/cm3) and gram (g) units is the longstanding industry practice, the values in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.  
1.3 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.  
1.4 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.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 The presence of surface finger-oxide penetration and interparticle oxide networks are two of the properties used to evaluate powder forged steel parts for proper processing. Maximum acceptable depths of penetration of surface finger-oxide penetration and acceptable concentrations of subsurface interparticle oxide networks depend on the component and its service environment.  
5.2 Results of tests may be used to qualify parts for shipment.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers a metallographic method for determining the maximum depth of surface finger-oxide penetration and the concentration of subsurface interparticle oxide networks in critical areas of powder forged steel parts.  
1.2 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.3 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.  
1.4 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.