Standard Macro Test Methods for ASTM E381 Steel Bars, Stumps, Ingots and Forgings

Developed by the American Testing and Materials Authority (ASTM), the ASTM E381 standard describes a test method for macro inspection of metallic materials. The full name of the standard is as follows: ASTM E381 Steel rods, logs, ingots and forgings are the standard macro test method.

This standard is used in the steel industry and is a simple test method that provides information about the relative homogeneity of the sample. This method uses the action of an acid or other abrasive to improve the macrostructural properties of a properly prepared sample. The tests carried out under this standard give the following results:

• Differences in structure such as grain size, branching structure and column structure
• Changes in chemical composition such as separation, core and banding
• Presence of discontinuities such as tours, seams, cracks, porosity, explosions, pipes and washers

If macro tests and examinations are to be carried out in accordance with the requirements of the contract, order or standard, forging, billet, ingots and similar, and the production will be made according to the results, the manufacturer and buyer companies must agree to:

• Production phase where the tests will be carried out
• Number and locations of the sections to be tested and examined
• Required surface preparation before etching of the sample
• Etching reagent, temperature and etching time, and
• Type, size, number, location and management of the conditions to be considered harmful

During the test, several different etching reagents can be used depending on the type of examination to be performed. Steels react differently to etching reagents due to differences in chemical composition, production method, heat treatment and many other variables. It is practical to establish general standards for the acceptance or rejection of all conditions. It is not because some conditions have to be taken into account according to the part where it occurs.

Among the services provided by our organization within the framework of metallic testing services are ASTM E381 standard tests.