This test method deals with the procedures for the standard practice of performing contact, pulse-echo ultrasonic examination of austenitic steel forgings by the straight and angle beam techniques. This practice does not cover the ultrasonic examination of nonmagnetic retaining ring forgings. The instrument used for this test method shall be the electronic pulsed reflection type. Prior to examination, specimens shall be heat treated and machined to a rectangular, parallel, or concentric surface configuration, and its surface shall be free of extraneous material such as loose scale, paint, and dirt. Calibration of the apparatus shall be done by either the single-block method or distance-amplitude curve method. Choice of method to be employed shall be determined by the test metal distance involved. Quality levels for acceptance, established by the type and amount of indication present, are detailed thoroughly.

1.1 This practice covers the standards and procedures for the contact, pulse-echo ultrasonic examination of austenitic steel forgings by the straight or angle beam techniques, or both.

1.2 This practice shall be used whenever the inquiry, proposal, contract, order, or specification states that austenitic steel forgings are to be subject to ultrasonic examination in accordance with Practice A 745/A 745M. Ultrasonic examination of nonmagnetic retaining ring forgings should be made to Practice A 531/A 531M, not to this practice.

1.3 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard.

1.4 This practice and the applicable material specifications are expressed in both inch-pound units and SI units. However, unless the order specifies the applicable “M” specification designation [SI units], the material shall be furnished to inch-pound units.

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 and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.