ASTM E408-13 (2025) PDF

Full title and description

ASTM E408-13 — Standard Test Methods for Total Normal Emittance of Surfaces Using Inspection‑Meter Techniques. This standard specifies inspection‑meter (portable and desktop) test methods for determining the total normal emittance (εN) of surfaces, useful for rapid, nondestructive measurements on large surfaces or small samples and for production control.

Abstract

These test methods define procedures and instrument types for determining total normal emittance by comparing specimen radiance to a blackbody reference (near‑normal incidence). The standard describes several test‑method approaches (including direct radiance and relative reflectance techniques), limitations, and intended applications for production and quality control of surface radiative properties.

General information

• Status: E408-13 was published in 2013 and reapproved/revised in later catalog entries; it is shown in standards catalogues as reapproved 2019 with revision activity noted for 2025 (see revision history).
• Publication date: Original/current designation E408-13 — effective June 1, 2013 (E408-13).
• Publisher: ASTM International (Committee E21 — Space Simulation and Applications of Space Technology).
• ICS / categories: 17.040.20 — Properties of surfaces (surface radiative properties / emittance).
• Edition / version: E408-13 (with reapproval noted 2019 and catalog references to a 2025 revision).
• Number of pages: Approximately 5 pages (short test methods publication).

Scope

The standard covers determination of total normal emittance (εN) of surfaces using inspection‑meter instruments. It applies where rapid, nondestructive emittance measurements are needed on large surfaces or small samples, and it is particularly intended for production control and applications where a portable or bench inspection‑meter is appropriate. The document summarizes instrument types and the principles of test methods A, B, and C used to obtain total normal emittance.

Key topics and requirements

• Definitions and physical basis of total normal emittance (εN) and its relation to spectral emittance and radiance.
• Descriptions of inspection‑meter instrument types and measurement principles (direct radiance, relative reflectance, and spectral reflectance conversion to total emittance).
• Procedure outlines for rapid, nondestructive measurement on large surfaces and small samples.
• Considerations for reference measurements, calibration practices, and limitations of inspection‑meter techniques.
• Notes on applicability to production control and the need for appropriate safety and health practices when using the standard.

Typical use and users

Used by materials engineers, quality and production control technicians, surface‑coating manufacturers, thermal control engineers (including aerospace / spacecraft thermal specialists), and test laboratories performing rapid emittance checks. Typical applications include thermal control surface verification, coating acceptance testing, and on‑site inspection where laboratory emissivity chambers are impractical.

Related standards

Closely related ASTM standards and guides address spectral emittance measurements, laboratory emissivity test methods, and space/thermal control material test methods. Relevant committee cross‑references appear under ASTM Committee E21 publications and related ASTM test methods for radiative properties and space materials testing.

Keywords

emittance, emissivity, normal emittance, inspection‑meter, portable emissometer, radiative properties, surface properties, thermal control, production control, ASTM E408.

FAQ

Q: What is this standard?

A: ASTM E408-13 is a short test methods standard describing inspection‑meter techniques for measuring the total normal emittance (εN) of surfaces using portable or desktop instruments.

Q: What does it cover?

A: It covers test methods and instrument approaches (radiant energy and reflectance techniques) to obtain total normal emittance, guidance on measurement practice, and notes on intended applications such as production control and nondestructive surface checks.

Q: Who typically uses it?

A: Materials and thermal engineers, quality/control technicians, coating manufacturers, spacecraft thermal engineers, and test laboratories performing in‑field or rapid emittance checks.

Q: Is it current or superseded?

A: The E408-13 designation is the 2013 edition; it was reapproved in later catalog listings (2019 reapproval) and catalog metadata shows revision activity for 2025. Users should check the ASTM catalog or contact ASTM International for the definitive current status and the text of any 2025 revision.

Q: Is it part of a series?

A: E408 is part of ASTM Committee E21’s suite of space simulation and surface/property test methods; it replaces earlier E408 editions and is cross‑referenced by other ASTM guides and test methods addressing radiative and thermal properties.

Q: What are the key keywords?

A: Emittance, emissivity, inspection‑meter, emissometer, radiative properties, surface properties, production control, thermal control.