ASTM A1038-19 PDF

Full title and description

Standard Test Method for Portable Hardness Testing by the Ultrasonic Contact Impedance (UCI) Method — a procedure for obtaining comparative hardness values on metallic materials using a portable ultrasonic contact‑impedance device with a Vickers diamond indenter; results are converted into common hardness scales (for example HV and HRC) and reported in SI units.

Abstract

This standard specifies the Ultrasonic Contact Impedance (UCI) portable hardness test technique, covering the measurement principle, equipment, calibration, test procedure, limitations (surface‑only measurement) and reporting of comparative hardness values. The method is intended for small or difficult‑to‑access locations and produces surface hardness values that are not representative of subsurface conditions.

General information

• Status: Active.
• Publication date: 01 October 2019 (designated A1038‑19).
• Publisher: ASTM International.
• ICS / categories: 19.100 — Non‑destructive testing / Portable hardness testing.
• Edition / version: A1038‑19 (current revision from 2019; replaces A1038‑17).
• Number of pages: 8 pages.

Scope

This test method covers the determination of comparative hardness values by applying the Ultrasonic Contact Impedance (UCI) method. Values are stated in SI units (informational inch‑pound units may be provided in notes). The method is for surface (superficial) hardness measurements on metallic materials using a Vickers diamond indenter and is applicable where portable, localized testing is required; it does not provide information about subsurface properties.

Key topics and requirements

• Principle of the Ultrasonic Contact Impedance (UCI) hardness measurement and instrumentation (portable UCI probe with Vickers diamond indenter).
• Calibration procedures and reference blocks to ensure conversion to common hardness scales (e.g., HV, HRC).
• Test method: specimen preparation, positioning, loading, dwell/measurement procedure, number of readings and averaging.
• Reporting requirements: units (SI), converted hardness scales, conditions and limitations of the measurement.
• Limitations and significance: measurement is superficial, location‑dependent, and not indicative of subsurface hardness.
• Safety and user responsibility: users must establish appropriate safety and environmental practices prior to use.

Typical use and users

Used for portable hardness checks on in‑service components, maintenance inspections, hard‑to‑reach areas (gear flanks, roots), quality control of manufactured parts, and field verification of heat‑treatment results. Typical users include NDT technicians, metallurgists, quality engineers, maintenance personnel, and inspection bodies.

Related standards

Revises ASTM A1038‑17. Commonly referenced alongside other hardness standards and test methods such as ASTM E18 (Rockwell hardness), ASTM E92 (Vickers hardness test), ASTM E384 (microindentation hardness), and international instrumented indentation standards where appropriate; also related to general NDT practice standards in the 19.100 ICS category.

Keywords

Ultrasonic Contact Impedance, UCI, portable hardness testing, superficial hardness, Vickers indenter, hardness conversion, non‑destructive testing, ASTM A1038, field hardness measurement.

FAQ

Q: What is this standard?

A: ASTM A1038‑19 is the ASTM Standard Test Method for Portable Hardness Testing by the Ultrasonic Contact Impedance (UCI) Method, providing procedures for portable surface hardness measurements.

Q: What does it cover?

A: It covers the UCI measurement principle, equipment requirements, calibration, test procedure, reporting, and limitations (surface‑only measurements reported in SI units and converted to common hardness scales).

Q: Who typically uses it?

A: NDT technicians, metallurgists, quality and production engineers, maintenance and inspection personnel who need portable, localized hardness checks on components and assemblies.

Q: Is it current or superseded?

A: As of its publication date (01 October 2019) A1038‑19 is the current active edition; it superseded A1038‑17. Users should confirm the current status with ASTM International for any amendments after 2019.

Q: Is it part of a series?

A: It is a standalone ASTM test method within the metallurgy and non‑destructive testing portfolio (ASTM committee A01 and subcommittee A01.13) and is commonly used in conjunction with other hardness and NDT standards.

Q: What are the key keywords?

A: Ultrasonic Contact Impedance, UCI, portable hardness, superficial hardness, Vickers indenter, hardness conversion, ASTM A1038.