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.

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