AEROSPACE AMS2175 REV.

A
MATERIAL Issued 2003-07
SPECIFICATION Revised 2010-06

Superseding AMS2175

Castings, Classification and Inspection of

RATIONALE

AMS2175A results from a Five Year Review and update of this specification.

1. SCOPE

1.1 Purpose

This specification establishes nondestructive testing methods, sampling frequency, and acceptance criteria for the
inspection of metal castings.

1.2 Application

This specification has been used typically for structural castings, but usage is not limited to such applications.

1.2.1 Casting Methods

This specification is intended to apply to all casting methods except high pressure die castings. See 8.2.

1.2.2 Casting Alloys

This specification is intended to apply to all casting alloys covered in Tables 6 through 14. Other alloys may be inspected
to this standard as described in 3.4.3.2 using criteria specified by the cognizant engineering organization.

1.3 Classification

Castings that are inspected in accordance with this specification are designated by classes and applicable grades. The
"Casting Class" governs the frequency of inspection (See 3.1 and 4.3), while the "Casting Grade" controls the acceptance
criteria. See 3.1 and 3.4.

1.3.1 Classes

Class 1 - A casting, the single failure of which would endanger the lives of operating personnel, or cause the loss of a
missile, aircraft, or other vehicle.
Class 2 - A casting, the single failure of which would result in a significant operational penalty. In the case of missiles,
aircraft, and other vehicles, this includes loss of major components, unintentional release or inability to release
armament stores, or failure of weapon installation components.
Class 3 - Castings not included in Class 1 or Class 2 and having a margin of safety of 200 percent or less.
Class 4 - Castings not included in Class 1 or Class 2 and having a margin of safety greater than 200 percent.

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SAE AMS2175A Page 2 of 20

1.3.2 Grades

Castings, or sections of a casting, shall be of the following grades:

Grade A - The highest quality grade of casting, or area of a casting, with minimum allowable discontinuities and very
difficult to produce except in local areas.
Grade B - The second highest quality grade of casting, or area of a casting, which allows slightly more discontinuities
than Grade A, and difficult to produce, except in local areas.
Grade C - A high quality grade of casting, or area of a casting, that can be consistently produced.
Grade D - The lowest quality grade of a casting, or area of a casting, that is easily produced and is used primarily for low
stress or noncritical areas adjacent to the higher graded areas.

2. APPLICABLE DOCUMENTS

The issue of the following documents in effect on the date of the purchase order forms a part of this specification to the
extent specified herein. The supplier may work to a subsequent revision of a document unless a specific document issue
is specified. When the referenced document has been cancelled and no superseding document has been specified, the
last published issue of that document shall apply.

2.1 ASTM Publications

Available from ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, P.O. Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959,
Tel: 610-832-9585, www.astm.org.

ASTM E 155 Reference Radiographs for Inspection of Aluminum and Magnesium Castings

ASTM E 186 Reference Radiographs for Heavy-Walled (2 to 4.5-in. (51 to 114-mm)) Steel Castings

ASTM E 192 Reference Radiographs of Investment Steel Castings for Aerospace Applications

ASTM E 272 Reference Radiographs of High-Strength Copper-Base and Nickel-Copper Alloy Castings

ASTM E 280 Reference Radiographs for Heavy-Walled (4.5 to 12-in. (114 to 305-mm)) Steel Castings

ASTM E 310 Reference Radiographs for Tin Bronze Castings

ASTM E 446 Reference Radiographs for Steel Castings up to 2 in. (51 mm) in Thickness

ASTM E 1255 Radioscopy

ASTM E 1320 Reference Radiographs for Titanium Castings

ASTM E 1417 Liquid Penetrant Testing

ASTM E 1444 Magnetic Particle Testing

ASTM E 1742 Radiographic Examination

ASTM E 2033 Computed Radiology (Photostimulable Luminescence Method)

ASTM E 2104 Radiographic Examination of Advanced Aero and Turbine Materials and Components

ASTM E 2422 Digital Reference Images for Inspection of Aluminum Castings

SAE AMS2175A Page 3 of 20

2.2 NAS Publications

Available from Aerospace Industries Association, 1000 Wilson Boulevard, Suite 1700, Arlington, VA 22209-3928,
Tel: 703-358-1000, www.aia-aerospace.org.

NAS 410 Certification and Qualification of Nondestructive Test Personnel

3. TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS

3.1 Classification of Castings

3.1.1 Determination of Classes and Grades

The cognizant engineering organization shall establish the class and grade(s) for each casting design in accordance with
1.3). If the grade of casting is not specified on the drawing or other contractual document, Grade C shall apply, except for
Class 4 castings, where Grade D shall apply. Sections of a casting may be of varying grades depending on the applied
stresses to that portion of the casting. Particular attention should be given to areas that contain, or will eventually contain,
stress risers after machining (such as sharp internal corners, holes, or notches).

3.1.1.1 Class 1 Casting Requirements

All areas of Class 1 castings shall be of a quality equivalent to, or higher quality grade than, Grade C, except that all
highly stressed areas of a Class 1 casting shall be of a quality equivalent to, or higher quality grade than, Grade B.

3.2 Inspection Sequence

It is the responsibility of the supplier to perform and comply with appropriate inspections as necessary and in the proper
sequence during processing to assure freedom from harmful discontinuities in the final product. The intent of inspections
during processing is to detect discontinuities that would be detrimental to the final product at the earliest stage in
processing so as to minimize the cost of rejected or scrapped castings. The sequence for penetrant, magnetic particle,
and radiographic inspections shall be as specified in ASTM E 1417, ASTM E 1444, and ASTM E 1742, respectively, or as
otherwise specified by the cognizant engineering organization.

3.3 Personnel Qualification

Personnel performing penetrant, magnetic particle or radiographic inspections shall be qualified and certified in
accordance with NAS 410 for the applicable method and technique.

3.4 Inspection Methods and Acceptance Criteria

3.4.1 Visual Inspection

Visual inspection shall be performed in areas with ambient lighting that is not less than 75 foot-candles.

3.4.1.1 Surface Characteristics

Castings shall be free of foreign materials, and shall not contain cracks, hot tears, cold shuts, and negative core seams
(also called parting line below flush). In addition, castings shall conform to the criteria specified on the engineering
drawing, specification, or agreed upon observational standards. See 8.3.

3.4.1.2 Surface Roughness

Surface roughness shall conform to the engineering drawing requirements. Surface roughness requirements specified on
the engineering drawing (e.g., 63 Ra, 125 RMS, etc.) do not preclude the presence of acceptable liquid penetrant or
magnetic particle indications. Visual and tactile comparison with commercially available observational standards may be
used to determine conformance to surface roughness requirements.
SAE AMS2175A Page 4 of 20

3.4.1.3 Gate, Riser, and Parting Line Projections

If allowance limits for gate, riser, or parting line projections are not specified on the engineering drawing or casting
(material) specification, then the maximum limit for gates, risers and parting lines shall be in accordance with Table 3.

3.4.1.4 Surface Pits and Raised Metal

Allowable surface pits and raised metal (also called positive metal), other than gates, risers and parting lines, that are not
specifically controlled by the engineering drawing or agreed-upon observational standards shall be allowed as specified in
3.4.1.4.1 and 3.4.1.4.2.

3.4.1.4.1 For sand castings, surface pits are acceptable if they have smooth, rounded contours and do not cause the
casting to fall outside the dimensional requirements of the engineering drawing. Raised metal that has a
jagged or irregular surface, or which causes the casting to fall outside of the dimensional requirements of the
engineering drawing, shall be removed or blended to conform to the dimensional and surface roughness
requirements of the engineering drawing.

3.4.1.4.2 For investment and permanent mold castings, random raised metal shall be limited to a height of 0.015 to
0.030 inch (0.38 to 0.76 mm) in an area 0.125 x 0.125 inch (3.2 x 3.2 mm) and no more than 1 per square
inch (650 mm2). Random surface pits shall be limited to 0.030 to 0.060 inch (0.76 to 1.5 mm) in diameter and
0.030 inch (0.76 mm) in depth and no more than 1 per square inch (650 mm2). Surface pits less than
0.030 inch (0.76 mm) deep or raised metal less than 0.015 inch (0.38 mm) in height may be present.

3.4.2 Magnetic Particle and Penetrant Inspection

3.4.2.1 Inspection Method for Ferromagnetic Materials

The method for inspection of ferromagnetic materials shall be in accordance with ASTM E 1444. When approved by
cognizant engineering organization, penetrant inspection may be performed in lieu of magnetic particle inspection (e.g.,
casting size or complex shape prevent adequate magnetic particle inspection). All precipitation hardening stainless steels
shall be penetrant inspected in accordance with 3.4.2.2, unless otherwise specified by the cognizant engineering
organization.

3.4.2.2 Inspection Method for Nonferromagnetic Materials

The method for inspection of nonferromagentic materials shall be in accordance with ASTM E 1417. The cognizant
engineering organization may specify the sensitivity level of the penetrant materials to be used. If no sensitivity level is
specified, the inspection facility shall use Sensitivity Level 1 or higher level.

3.4.2.3 Magnetic Particle and Penetrant Acceptance Criteria

If the magnetic particle or penetrant acceptance criteria are not specified, the surface quality shall conform to Table 4.

3.4.3 Radiographic Inspection

3.4.3.1 Radiographic Inspection Method

The method for inspection shall be in accordance with ASTM E 1742, or when specified, in accordance with
ASTM E 2104. The use of nonfilm radiographic techniques (i.e., radioscopy, digital radiography, etc.) is permitted
provided the method used is sufficiently sensitive to resolve the required radiographic quality level. Non-film inspection
shall be conducted in accordance with ASTM E 1255 or ASTM E 2033; however, prior approval shall be obtained from the
cognizant engineering organization on the detailed inspection, evaluation, documentation, and quality control procedures.
SAE AMS2175A Page 5 of 20

3.4.3.2 Radiographic Reference Standards

Radiographic standards shall be as required in ASTM E 155, ASTM E 186, ASTM E 192, ASTM E 272, ASTM E 280,
ASTM E 310, ASTM E 446, and ASTM E 1320. For alloy types where reference radiographs are specifically covered, the
reference radiographic shall be of the same alloy family as the casting. For alloys not specifically included in the alloy
family covered by the ASTM reference radiographic standards, the cognizant engineering organization shall either specify
an ASTM standard representative of the quality required, or develop its own radiographic standards containing details
comparable to an ASTM standard.

3.4.3.3 Radiographic Acceptance Criteria

The cognizant engineering organization shall specify the radiographic grade(s) for Class 1, 2 and 3 casting designs.
Radiographic grade(s) may be specified for Class 4 castings. Castings shall meet the requirements for the applicable
grade(s) as shown in Tables 6 through 14, unless other criteria are specified by the cognizant engineering organization.
The maximum permissible radiographic severity levels for graded titanium castings shall be specified by the cognizant
engineering organization. Suggested standards for graded titanium castings are shown in Table 15, but designers should
list each requirement on the design documentation and avoid callout of AMS2175 Table 15 because these values may be
updated in future revisions.

4. QUALITY ASSURANCE PROVISIONS

4.1 Responsibility for Inspection

The supplier of castings shall supply all samples for the specified tests and shall be responsible for the performance of all
required tests. All testing shall be performed at facilities acceptable to cognizant engineering organization. Purchaser
reserves the right to sample and to perform any confirmatory testing deemed necessary to ensure that the castings
conform to specified requirements.

4.2 Classification of Tests

4.2.1 Acceptance Tests

Inspection for visual (3.4.1), magnetic particle or penetrant (3.4.2), and, when specified (4.3.3), radiographic (3.4.3)
soundness are acceptance tests and shall be performed on each lot.

4.2.1.1 Inspection Lot

An inspection lot, for the purposes of visual, penetrant, magnetic particle, and radiographic inspection shall be as defined
in the casting (material) specification, engineering drawing, or purchase order. If not specified in any of the above
documents, an inspection lot shall be defined as all castings of the same part number and the same alloy, produced using
the same processing parameters of the casting procedure, and submitted for inspection as a single group.

4.3 Sampling and testing shall be in accordance with the following:

4.3.1 Visual Inspection

Each casting shall be 100% visually examined.

4.3.2 Magnetic Particle and Penetrant Inspection

Each casting shall be subjected to either magnetic particle or penetrant inspection, as appropriate, except that Class 4
castings shall be sample inspected in accordance with Table 1 or greater, unless a frequency of 100 percent is specified.
See 3.4.2.
SAE AMS2175A Page 6 of 20

4.3.3 Radiographic Inspection

Sampling inspection and inspection coverage shall be as indicated below:

Class 1 castings - Each casting shall be completely examined.

Class 2 castings - Castings shall be selected in accordance with Table 1 and completely examined.

Class 3 castings - Castings shall be selected in accordance with Table 2 and completely examined.

Class 4 castings - Radiographic examination is not required unless otherwise specified.

4.3.3.1 If radiographic examination is specified and no sampling is specified, Table 2 shall apply.

4.3.3.2 When approved by cognizant engineering organization, a statistically based continuous sampling plan may be
used instead of lot sampling.

4.4 Reports

The supplier of castings shall furnish with each shipment a report showing the results of inspections for visual, magnetic
particle or penetrant, and, when specified, radiographic soundness. If sample tables are used, the sample size inspected
shall be stated. This report shall include the purchase order number, melt and heat treat lot numbers, inspection lot
number, AMS2175A, casting part number, quantity, and, when applicable, unique casting identification (e.g., serial
number or similar).

4.5 Resampling and Retesting

4.5.1 Reinspection of Rejected Lots

When an inspection lot is rejected on the basis of a sampling plan, regardless of the inspection method, it may be
resubmitted for 100 percent inspection and unacceptable castings removed from the lot in accordance with 4.5.2. For lots
rejected by a radiographic inspection sampling plan, the radiographic views where the unacceptable discontinuities were
found shall be inspected on the balance of the castings in the lot.

4.5.2 Individual Casting Rejection

Individual casting rejection shall apply in those instances where all castings in the lot are inspected and any individual
casting is found unacceptable to visual, penetrant, magnetic particle, or radiographic inspection requirements. Only
unacceptable castings need to be rejected, and individual castings meeting the requirements of this standard may be
accepted.

4.5.3 Discontinuity Removal

If it is determined that rejectable discontinuities shall subsequently be removed by machining on machining stock
surfaces, or by blending on as-cast surfaces, then those discontinuities shall not be cause for rejection provided
reinspection is performed after the material removal to verify that the discontinuity was removed to the specified limits and
the dimensional tolerance requirements of the casting are satisfied.

5. PREPARATION FOR DELIVERY

Not applicable
SAE AMS2175A Page 7 of 20

6. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The supplier shall mention this specification number and its revision letter in all quotations and when acknowledging
purchaser orders.

7. REJECTIONS

Castings not conforming to this specification, or to modifications authorized by cognizant engineering organization, will be
subject to rejection.

8. NOTES

8.1 A change bar (l) located in the left margin is for the convenience of the user in locating areas where technical
revisions, not editorial changes, have been made to the previous issue of this document. An (R) symbol to the left of
the document title indicates a complete revision of the document, including technical revisions. Change bars and
(R) are not used in original publications, nor in documents that contain editorial changes only.

8.2 Die Castings

This standard prescribes acceptance criteria for surface inspections and radiographic inspections applied to metal
castings. This standard is not intended to apply to high pressure die castings. Acceptance criteria for die castings may be
based on standards and guidelines developed by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), and the North
American Die Casting Association (formerly the American Die Casting Institute (ADCI)). Examples are ASTM E 505 and
ADCI “Q”, “E”, and “M” series standards.

8.3 Observational Standards

Observational standards for visual inspection may include sample castings with known discontinuities. Assistance with the
visual inspection criteria for steel castings may be obtained by reference to MSS SP-55 and ASTM A 802. MSS SP-55
(“Quality Standard for Steel Castings for Valves, Flanges, and Fittings and other Piping Components - Visual Method”
available from the Manufacturer’s Standardization Society of the Valve and Fittings Industry, 127 Park Street, N.E.,
Vienna, VA 22180) contains reference photographs that illustrate various types and degrees of surface discontinuities,
while ASTM A 802 (“Steel Castings, Surface Acceptance Standards, Visual Examination”) contains plates that model
actual discontinuities and surface roughness.

8.4 Producibility Considerations

The class and grade assigned to the castings should represent a realistic value for the functional requirements
(e.g., Class 1 castings should not be specified for a Class 2 application). Casting design coupled with foundry practice can
make overly severe soundness requirements impractical for a manufacturer to satisfy. Consultation with the producing
foundry or experienced casting design personnel is recommended before specifying the casting grade. See 1.3.

8.5 Radiographic Quality Grades for Machined Areas

Castings that have been found acceptable in accordance with the ASTM radiographic standards may have internal
discontinuities (such as shrinkage, porosity, and inclusions) that become exposed by machining. One method of
alleviating this problem is quantifying (in terms of size) the ASTM reference radiographic discontinuities so that their size
on the surface may be approximated. Once this has been performed, the cognizant engineering organization should be
able to determine if the discontinuities allowed in the radiographic grade will be permissible on the surface. If they are not
permissible, the area that is machined should be zoned to a more stringent radiographic grade.
SAE AMS2175A Page 8 of 20

8.6 Ultrasonic Inspection of Thick Castings

Class 1 and Class 2 castings that have a section thickness of 4.50 inches and greater should also be inspected by
ultrasonic methods due to the loss of radiographic sensitivity in the thicker sections. It should be noted that ultrasonic
examination may not be practical for all casting configurations. Because ultrasonic inspection and radiographic inspection
require different test method standards and different acceptance standards, the cognizant engineering organization
should specify the appropriate document for performing ultrasonic inspection along with the appropriate quality level of
acceptance criteria contained within that document.

8.7 Terms used in AMS are clarified in ARP1917 and as follows:

8.7.1 Chaplet

Metal core support that is used in the mold cavity and fuses into the casting.

8.7.2 Cold Shut

An imperfect junction between two flows of metal in a mold caused by the surface of the streams of molten metal chilling
too rapidly such that complete fusion does not occur. This discontinuity may have the appearance of a crack or lap with
smooth or rounded edges.

8.7.3 Core Shift

Movement of a casting core such that a change in position can be discerned. Cores are portions of the mold that may
create internal passageways or other casting features.

8.7.4 Crack

A separation (rupture or fracture) of metal that was once joined in the solid state and produces a linear indication
observed during nondestructive testing. See "cold shut" and "hot tear" for examples of other discontinuities that also
produce linear indications.

8.7.5 Defect

A discontinuity or condition that exceeds allowable limits. Defects are, by definition, unacceptable.

8.7.6 Discontinuity

An interruption in the normal physical structure or configuration of a part such as a crack, inclusion, or porosity, which may
or may not affect the usability of the part.

8.7.7 Foreign Material

Material other than the specified metal alloy, typically sand, slag, oxide, dross, or metal of different density. Indications of
foreign material appear as isolated, irregular, or elongated variations of radiographic film density In radiographic
inspection where acceptance criteria exists for both foreign material and inclusions, the distinguishing factor is that the
foreign material indications usually occur over a larger area while the inclusion indications are usually singular indications
of a few discrete inclusions.

8.7.8 Gas Holes

Round or elongated, smooth-edged voids occurring individually, in clusters, or distributed throughout the casting. They are
generally caused by trapped air or gases evolved from the metal during solidification.
SAE AMS2175A Page 9 of 20

8.7.9 Gas Porosity

Tiny voids distributed throughout the entire casting or a portion of the casting. They are generally caused by trapped air or
gases rejected from the metal or mold material during solidification.

8.7.10 Hot Tear

A fracture that forms upon solidification of the molten metal, often resulting from abrupt changes in section thickness that
cause nonuniform cooling contraction. Radiographic images of hot tears appear as ragged dark lines of variable width and
with no definite line of continuity. Hot tears may exist in groups and generally start at the surface.

8.7.11 Inclusions

Particles of a material different than the intended casting composition, such as mold material, core material, slag, dross,
etc., that are embedded in the casting. These particles may be internal or surface connected.

8.7.12 Insert

A piece of metal preplaced within the mold cavity and used to locally increase the rate of heat removal during
solidification. It fuses to the final casting and is also called an internal chill.

8.7.13 Image Quality Indicator (IQI)

A device or combination of devices whose demonstrated image or images provide visual or quantitative data, or both, to
determine radiologic quality and sensitivity. Also known as a penetrameter.

8.7.14 Misrun

The failure of the molten metal to completely fill the mold. A misrun appears on the radiograph as prominent darkened
areas of variable dimensions with a definite and smooth outline.

8.7.15 Radiographic Quality Level

The ability of the radiographic procedure to demonstrate a certain IQI sensitivity based on the detection of the IQI holes or
wires.

8.7.16 Segregation

Variation in composition among regions of a casting that occurs during solidification. Segregation tends to form in thicker
cross-sections of susceptible alloys and will appear as areas with varying radiographic density.

8.7.17 Shrinkage

The term shrinkage, as used in this standard, refers to a network of small voids that formed during solidification. A larger
and singular void caused by solidification shrinkage on a large scale, as defined in 8.7.18 is called a shrinkage cavity.
Shrinkage is typically categorized as dendritic, filamentary, feathery, or sponge. Shrinkage is usually concentrated below
the surface but may extend to the surface. In radiographic inspection, depending on the category, shrinkage may appear
as dark irregular patches, as dark feathery streaks, or as a lacy or a honeycombed darkened area with a diffuse outline.
Radiographic reference standards provide visual examples of each subcategory of shrinkage. In penetrant inspection,
dendritic shrinkage (sometimes called “microshrinkage”) and sponge shrinkage are often indistinguishable from each
other and appear as a sponge-like cluster of tiny pinholes or spotty irregular areas with feathery outlines. In magnetic
particle inspection shrinkage, may appear as a jagged area or irregular patch of magnetic particles.
SAE AMS2175A Page 10 of 20

8.7.18 Shrinkage Cavity

A discrete void within a section of the casting caused by insufficient feeding of molten metal during solidification and
volume reduction of the metal as it solidifies. Shrinkage cavities appear on the radiograph as dark areas that are
indistinctly outlined and have irregular dimensions.

8.7.19 Surface Irregularities

Any anomaly, either positive (raised) or negative (depressed) from the normal cast surface.

8.7.20 Visual Inspection

Inspection of casting surfaces to determine conformance to the requirements for surface roughness, surface irregularities,
dimensions, or any visible surface discontinuities.

8.8 Dimensions and properties in inch/pound units and the Fahrenheit temperatures are primary; dimensions and
properties in SI units and the Celsius temperatures are shown as approximate equivalents of the primary units and
are presented only for information.

8.9 Cross Reference

The classes of castings defined in 1.3 correspond to classes found in predecessor documents as follows:

AMS2175 MIL-STD-2175
AMS-STD-2175 MIL-C-6021H MIL-C-6021G
Class 1 Class 1 Class 1, Class 1A
Class 2 Class 2 Class 1, Class 1B
Class 3 Class 3 Class 2, Class 2A
Class 4 Class 4 Class 2, Class 2B

PREPARED BY AMS COMMITTEE “B”

SAE AMS2175A Page 11 of 20

TABLE 1 - SAMPLING, RADIOGRAPHIC INSPECTION OF CLASS 2 CASTINGS, AND

MAGNETIC PARTICLE AND PENETRANT INSPECTION OF CLASS 4 CASTINGS
Lot Size [1] Sample Size [2] Lot Size [1] Sample Size [2]
2- 5 All 27 - 36 10
6- 8 5 37 - 51 11
9 - 11 6 52 - 82 12
12 - 15 7 83 - 162 13
16 - 20 8 163 - 971 14
21 - 26 9 972 and over 15
Notes:
[1] See 4.2.1.1 for lot definition. When approved by cognizant engineering
organization, a statistically based continuous sampling plan may be used instead of
lot sampling.
[2] Acceptance number is 0.

TABLE 2 - SAMPLING, RADIOGRAPHIC INSPECTION OF CLASS 3 CASTINGS

Lot Size [1] Sample Size [2] Lot Size [1] Sample Size [2]
2- 4 All 18 - 27 7
5- 6 4 28 - 48 8
7 - 11 5 49 and over 9
12 - 17 6
Notes:
[1] See 4.2.1.1 for lot definition. When approved by cognizant engineering
organization, a statistically based continuous sampling plan may be used instead of
lot sampling.
[2] Acceptance number is 0.

TABLE 3 - MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE GATE, RISER, AND PARTING LINE PROJECTIONS

Nonmachined Surface, Inches Machined Surface, Inches
Casting Weight, Pounds (Kg) (mm) (mm)
Up to 10 0.031 0.062
(Up to 4.5) (0.79) (1.57)
Over 10 thru 25 0.047 0.062
(Over 4.5 thru 11.3) (1.19) (1.57)
Over 25 thru 50 0.062 0.094
(Over 11.3 thru 22.7) (1.57) (2.39)
Over 50 0.125 0.188
(Over 22.7) (3.18) (4.78)
SAE AMS2175A Page 12 of 20

TABLE 4 - MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE DISCONTINUITY SIZE AND DISTRIBUTION IN INCHES

FOR MAGNETIC PARTICLE AND PENETRANT INSPECTION [1] [2] [3] [4] [9]
Discontinuity Type Grade A Grade B Grade C Grade D
Random Individual Discontinuities 1/4 T or the 1/3 T or the 1/3 T or the 1/2 T or the
(Gas Holes, Inclusions, Discrete sizes sizes sizes sizes
Shrinkage Cavities), Nonlinear shown shown shown shown
[5] [6] below, below, below, below,
whichever whichever whichever whichever
is less: is less: is less: is less:
Surface …………………...………. 0.03 dia 0.05 dia 0.09 dia 0.12 dia
Subsurface (Magnetic Particle only) ... 0.05 dia 0.09 dia 0.12 dia 0.15 dia
Cracks, Hot Tears, Cold Shuts, or
None None None None
Through-Wall Discontinuities
Microshrinkage or Shrinkage
0 0.12 dia 0.38 dia 0.75 dia
Sponge, Nonlinear [7]
Microshrinkage or Shrinkage
0 0 0.12 0.25
Sponge, Linear [1] [4]
Number of Random Individual
Discontinuities Discontinuities [8]
2 3 4 4
Allowed Within a Microshrinkage or
2 x 2 Inch Area Shrinkage Sponge
0 1 1 1
Notes:
[1] Linear discontinuities (length to width ratio of 3 to 1 or greater) are not allowed except under the
following circumstances:
a) Linear dendritic shrinkage or linear shrinkage sponge indications shall be evaluated in
accordance with this table and shall not be allowed to break over an edge, extend through a wall,
or be located in internal corners of fillet radii.
b) In magnetic particle inspection, discontinuities 0.030 inches or less in length need not be
evaluated for linearity. In penetrant inspection, discontinuities 0.015 inches or less in length need
not be evaluated for linearity.
[2] Discontinuities that are visible under white light without the use of penetrant or magnetic particles may
be evaluated to the criteria of this table.
[3] Size limits shown are for actual discontinuity size as opposed to bleed out from penetrant inspection.
Indications may be inspected by measuring their size after wiping with a solvent dampened cloth,
cotton swab, or brush. Immediately evaluate the discontinuity for size as soon as the solvent has
evaporated.
[4] For rounded indications exhibiting bleedout in excess of discontinuity limits in Table 4, or for doubtful
indications of microshrinkage or sponge shrinkage, disposition may be based on the radiographic
acceptance criteria after radiographing the part. Linear microshrinkage or linear sponge shrinkage
shall only be acceptable after verification by radiography.
[5] For random individual discontinuities, the minimum resolvable size shall be 0.030 inches for magnetic
particle inspection and 0.015 inches for penetrant inspection. Discontinuities smaller than these sizes
shall be considered non-interpretable.
[6] For Grade A, any two random individual discontinuities shall be separated by a distance of at least
three times the maximum dimension of the larger discontinuity. For Grades B, C, and D, random
individual discontinuities shall be separated by a distance equal to twice the maximum dimension of
the larger discontinuity. However, if the total length of the discontinuities that violate this spacing
requirement does not exceed the maximum length permitted for a single discontinuity, then these
discontinuities shall be considered as one and shall not be cause for rejection.
[7] Microshrinkage is also called dendritic shrinkage.
[8] The limits for random individual discontinuities do not apply if the discontinuities are smaller than one-
half their maximum allowable size and they meet the minimum spacing requirement of Note [6].
[9] “T” is the casting section thickness.
SAE AMS2175A Page 13 of 20

TABLE 5 - NOTES FOR TABLES 6 THROUGH 14

[1] An area of like size to the reference radiograph shall be the unit area by which the production
radiograph is evaluated. If the production radiograph shows a discontinuity that is equal to or
better than the severity level of the reference radiograph, the casting shall be acceptable. If
the production radiograph shows a discontinuity of greater severity than the reference
radiograph, the casting shall be rejected.
[2] When two or more types of discontinuities are present (in an area equal to the reference
radiographic plate area) to an extent equal to the maximum permissible severity level for each
type, the casting shall be rejected.
[3] Numbers in the table are ASTM radiographic plate numbers for a particular type and severity
of discontinuity. A low number indicates fewer, smaller discontinuities while a higher number
indicates more numerous, larger discontinuities.
[4] The minimum resolvable radiographic indication size shall be 0.015 inches. Indications smaller
than this size shall be considered non-interpretable.
[5] Gas holes, sand spots, and inclusions allowed by these tables (even those smaller than the
maximum allowable size) shall be cause for rejection when closer than twice their maximum
dimension to an edge. Exceptions to this note based on the Class and Grade of the casting
are shown below:
Class 1 - No exceptions from Note [5].
Class 2 - No exceptions from Note [5] for Grade A and Grade B areas, or other areas
that are specified critical or highly stressed. Otherwise, the Note [5]
discontinuities are acceptable if they are separated from the edge by a
distance equal to or greater than the discontinuity’s maximum dimension.
Class 3 - Gas holes, sand spots, and inclusions of the maximum size allowed by these
tables shall be cause for rejection if they are closer than one diameter of their
maximum dimension to an edge. Edge distance restrictions do not apply to
gas holes, sand spots, and inclusions smaller than the maximum allowable
size.
Class 4 - Edge of part discontinuities are acceptable if they are not crack-like, linear, or
round with protruding linear indications.
The term “edge” refers to the outer boundary of the radiographic image of the casting. This
interpretation need only be made in the standard exposures (views) defined by the approved
radiographic technique. Additional radiographic exposures to determine the distance from the
surface of each gas hole, sand spot, or inclusion in other orientations are not required.
[6] “None”, as used in these tables, means that the discontinuity is not allowed.
SAE AMS2175A Page 14 of 20

TABLE 6 - MAXIMUM PERMISSIBLE RADIOGRAPHIC SEVERITY LEVELS FOR DISCONTINUITIES IN

ALUMINUM CASTINGS IN ACCORDANCE WITH ASTM E 155 AND ASTM E 2422 [3] [4] [5] [6]
Discontinuity Grade A Grade B Grade C Grade D
Inch Inch Inch Inch
1/4 3/4 1/4 3/4 1/4 3/4 1/4 3/4
Gas Holes None None 1 1 2 2 5 5
Gas Porosity, Round None None 1 1 3 3 7 7
Gas Porosity, Elongated None None 1 2 3 4 5 5
[2} [2]
Shrinkage Cavity None None 1 3 2 4 3 5 [2]
Shrinkage Sponge None None 1 1 2 2 4 3
Foreign Material, Less Dense None None 1 1 2 2 4 4
Foreign Material, More Dense None None 1 1 2 1 4 3
Cracks [1] ----------------------------------------- None -------------------------------------
Cold Shuts [1] ----------------------------------------- None -------------------------------------
Surface Irregularity [1] ------------------------ Not to exceed drawing tolerance -------------------
Core Shift [1] ------------------------ Not to exceed drawing tolerance -------------------
Notes:
[1] Reference radiographic plates are not available for this type of discontinuity.
[2] A 3/4 inch shrinkage cavity plate is not available in ASTM E 155. For section thicknesses greater
than 1/2 inch, use the 1/4 inch shrinkage cavity plate and the following limits:
Grade A = none, Grade B = 3, Grade C = 4, Grade D = 5.
[3] Use ASTM E 155 Volume 1 reference radiographic plates for film methods and use ASTM E 2422
digital reference images for non-film methods.
[4] For feature thicknesses greater than two inches, the 3/4 inch reference radiographic plates may
be used.
[5] See Table 5 for additional notes that apply to this table.
[6] Segregation is acceptable if it meets the magnesium reference radiographs for the specified
Grade in accordance with Table 7.
SAE AMS2175A Page 15 of 20

TABLE 7 - MAXIMUM PERMISSIBLE RADIOGRAPHIC SEVERITY LEVELS FOR DISCONTINUITIES IN

MAGNESIUM CASTINGS IN ACCORDANCE WITH ASTM E 155 [3] [4] [5]
Grade A Grade B Grade C Grade D
Inch Inch Inch Inch
Discontinuity 1/4 3/4 1/4 3/4 1/4 3/4 1/4 3/4
Gas Holes None None 1 1 3 2 4 4
Microshrinkage, Feathery None None 1 1 4 4 7 7
Microshrinkage, Sponge None None 1 1 3 4 7 8
Foreign Material, Less Dense None None 2 2 3 3 4 4
Foreign Material, More Dense None None 1 1 2 2 3 3
Reacted Sand Inclusions [6] 1 3 4 6
Gravity Segregation [6] 1 2 3 4
Eutectic Segregation [6]
(a) Microshrinkage Type ...…….. None 4 5 6

(b) Pipe Shrink Type ……...……. None None None 1/3 of size
on plate
(c ) Hot Tear Type ………...……. None Same as size Same as size
on plate on plate Twice size
on plate
Oxide Inclusions [6] None 1/3 of size 1/2 of size Same as size
on plate on plate on plate
Eutectic Depletion, Flow Line [6] None Same as size Twice size Any length [2]
on plate on plate
Cracks [1] --------------------------------------- None ------------------------------------
Cold Shuts [1] --------------------------------------- None ------------------------------------
Surface Irregularity [1] ---------------------- Not to exceed drawing tolerance ------------------
Core Shift [1] ---------------------- Not to exceed drawing tolerance ------------------
Notes:
[1] Reference radiographic plates are not available for this type of discontinuity.
[2] No other types of discontinuities are allowed to be contained with it in an area of like size to the
reference radiographic plate.
[3] Use ASTM E 155 Volume I and II reference radiograph numbers.
[4] For feature thicknesses greater than two inches, the 3/4 inch reference radiographic plates may
be used.
[5] See Table 5 for additional notes that apply to this table.
[6] Applicable to all casting section thicknesses.
 TABLE 8 - MAXIMUM PERMISSIBLE RADIOGRAPHIC SEVERITY LEVELS FOR DISCONTINUITIES IN SAE
INVESTMENT STEEL CASTINGS 1 INCH (25.4 MM) WALL OR LESS IN ACCORDANCE WITH ASTM E 192 [5]

Grade A, Inch Grade B, Inch Grade, C Inch Grade D, Inch

Discontinuity
1/8 3/8 3/4 1/8 3/8 3/4 1/8 3/8 3/4 1/8 3/8 3/4

Gas Holes 1 1 1 3 3 3 5 5 5 7 [1] 7 [2] 7

Shrinkage, Cavity None None None None None 1 None None 3 1 2 5

Shrinkage, Sponge 1 1 1 2 [3] 1 1 4 4 5 6 6 7

Shrinkage, Dendritic 1 1 1 2 2 2 4 4 4 6 6 6

Shrinkage, Filamentary None None None None None 1 None None 2 None None 3

Foreign Material, Less Dense 1 1 1 3 3 3 5 6 6 6 7 7

Foreign Material, More Dense [6] 1 1 1 3 3 3 5 6 6 6 7 7

Cold Shut, Hot Tear, or Cold Crack -------------------------------------------------- None ----------------------------------------------------

AMS2175A

Misrun -------------------------------------------------- None ----------------------------------------------------

Core Shift or Mold Ridge ------------------------------- Not to Exceed Drawing Tolerance ---------------------------------

Mold Buckle, Positive or Negative ------------------------------- Not to Exceed Drawing Tolerance ---------------------------------

Excess Metal in Cracked Core ------------------------------- Not to Exceed Drawing Tolerance ---------------------------------

Surface Irregularities ------------------------------- Not to Exceed Drawing Tolerance ---------------------------------

Notes:
[1] Excluding the single largest gas hole.
[2] Excluding the crack-like discontinuities emitting from the gas holes.
[3] Excluding the bottom half of the standard reference radiograph.
[4] (Not assigned)
[5] See Table 5 for additional notes that apply to this table.
[6] Use reference radiographic plates for foreign material less dense.
Page 16 of 20
SAE AMS2175A Page 17 of 20

TABLE 9 - MAXIMUM PERMISSIBLE RADIOGRAPHIC SEVERITY LEVELS FOR DISCONTINUITIES IN

HEAVY-WALLED STEEL CASTINGS 2 TO 4.5 INCH (51 TO 114 MM) IN THICKNESS
PER ASTM E 186 [1]
Code or Category Discontinuity Grade A Grade B Grade C Grade D
A Gas Porosity None 1 2 3
B Sand and Slag Inclusions None 1 2 4
C Shrinkage, Type 1 None 2 3 5
C Shrinkage, Type 2 None 2 3 4
C Shrinkage, Type 3 None 2 3 4
D Crack ---------------------- None ------------------
E Hot Tear ---------------------- None ------------------
F Insert ---------------------- None ------------------
Notes:
[1] See Table 5 for additional notes that apply to this table.

TABLE 10 - MAXIMUM PERMISSIBLE RADIOGRAPHIC SEVERITY LEVELS FOR DISCONTINUITIES IN

STEEL CASTINGS UP TO 2 INCH (51 MM) IN THICKNESS IN ACCORDANCE WITH ASTM E 446 [2]
Code or Category Discontinuity Grade A Grade B Grade C Grade D
A Gas Porosity None 1 2 3
B Sand and Slag Inclusions None 1 2 3
CA Shrinkage, Type CA None 1 2 3
CB Shrinkage, Type CB None 1 2 3
CC Shrinkage, Type CC None 1 2 3
CD Shrinkage, Type CD None 1 2 3
D Crack None None None None
E Hot Tear None None None None
F Insert None None [1] [1]
G Mottling --- Not to exceed drawing tolerance ---
Notes:
[1] Not to exceed drawing tolerance.
[2] See Table 5 for additional notes that apply to this table.
SAE AMS2175A Page 18 of 20

TABLE 11 - MAXIMUM PERMISSIBLE RADIOGRAPHIC SEVERITY LEVELS FOR DISCONTINUITIES IN

HEAVY-WALLED 4.5 TO 12 INCH (114 TO 305 MM) STEEL CASTINGS IN ACCORDANCE WITH ASTM E 280 [1]
Code or Category Discontinuity Grade A Grade B Grade C Grade D
A Gas Porosity 1 2 3 4
B Sand and Slag Inclusions 1 2 3 4
C Shrinkage, Type 1 1 2 3 4
C Shrinkage, Type 2 1 2 3 4
C Shrinkage, Type 3 1 2 3 4
D Crack ----------------------- None -------------------
E Hot Tear ----------------------- None -------------------
F Insert ----------------------- None -------------------
Notes:
[1] See Table 5 for additional notes that apply to this table.

TABLE 12 - MAXIMUM PERMISSIBLE RADIOGRAPHIC SEVERITY LEVELS FOR DISCONTINUITIES IN

HIGH-STRENGTH COPPER-BASE AND NICKEL-COPPER ALLOY CASTINGS
UP TO 2 INCHES (51 MM) IN THICKNESS IN ACCORDANCE WITH ASTM E 272 [3]
Code or Category Discontinuity [2] Grade A Grade B Grade C Grade D
A Gas Porosity None 1 2 3
Ba Sand Inclusions None 1 2 3
Bb Dross Inclusions None 1 2 3
[1] [1] [1]
Ca Shrinkage, Linear NA NA NA NA [1]
Cd Shrinkage, Feathery None 1 2 3
[1] [1] [1]
Cd Shrinkage Spongy NA NA NA NA [1]
Notes:
[1] Reference radiographic plates are not available for this type of discontinuity.
[2] Cracks, hot tears, and inserts are not allowed.
[3] See Table 5 for additional notes that apply to this table.

TABLE 13 - MAXIMUM PERMISSIBLE RADIOGRAPHIC SEVERITY LEVELS FOR DISCONTINUITIES IN

HIGH-STRENGTH COPPER-BASE AND NICKEL-COPPER ALLOY CASTINGS
2 TO 6 INCHES (51 TO 153 MM) IN THICKNESS IN ACCORDANCE WITH ASTM E 272 [3]
Code or Category Discontinuity [2] Grade A Grade B Grade C Grade D
A Gas Porosity None 1 2 3
Ba Sand Inclusions None 1 2 3
Bb Dross Inclusions None 1 2 3
Ca Shrinkage, Linear None 1 2 3
[1] [1] [1]
Cd Shrinkage, Feathery NA NA NA NA [1]
Cd Shrinkage Spongy None 1 2 3
Notes:
[1] Reference radiographic plates are not available for this type of discontinuity.
[2] Cracks, hot tears, and inserts are not allowed.
[3] See Table 5 for additional notes that apply to this table.
SAE AMS2175A Page 19 of 20

TABLE 14 - MAXIMUM PERMISSIBLE RADIOGRAPHIC SEVERITY LEVELS FOR DISCONTINUITIES IN

TIN BRONZE CASTINGS UP TO 2 INCHES (51 MM) IN THICKNESS IN ACCORDANCE WITH ASTM E 310 [2]
Code or Category Discontinuity [1] Grade A Grade B Grade C Grade D
A Gas Porosity None 1 2 3
B Sand Inclusions None 1 2 3
Ca Shrinkage, Linear None 1 2 3
Cd Shrinkage, Feathery or None 1 2 3
Spongy
Da Hot Tear --------------------------- None -----------------------
Eb Inserts, Chaplets --------------------------- None -----------------------
Notes:
[1] Cracks are not allowed.
[2] See Table 5 for additional notes that apply to this table.

TABLE 15A – SUGGESTED MAXIMUM PERMISSIBLE RADIOGRAPHIC SEVERITY LEVELS

FOR DISCONTINUITIES IN TITANIUM CASTINGS UP TO ONE INCH IN THICKNESS
IN ACCORDANCE WITH ASTM E1320 [1] [2] [3] [4] [6]
Grade A Grade B Grade C Grade D
Discontinuity Inch Inch Inch Inch
1/4 1/2 3/4 1/4 1/2 3/4 1/4 1/2 3/4 1/4 1/2 3/4
Gas Holes 2 2 2 4 4 5 5 7 7 5 7 7
Scattered Gas Holes 1 1 1 4 5 6 5 7 6 5 7 6
Clustered Gas Holes 1 1 1 2 2 2 3 3 3 5 5 4
Centerline Shrink 1 1 1 3 2 2 4 4 4 4 5 5
[5] [5] [5] [5]
Shrinkage Cavity 1 1 1 1 2 3 2 3 3 2 4 3
Scattered Shrinkage
1 2 2 2 3 3 3 4 4 5 5 5
Cavity
Less Dense Inclusions 1 3 4 6
More Dense Inclusions 1 2 3 4
Notes:
[1] When two or more types of discontinuities are present to an extent equal the acceptance standard for respective
discontinuities, the parts shall be rejected.
[2] Gas holes, sand spots, or inclusions allowed by this table shall be cause for rejection when closer than twice their
maximum dimension to a finished edge or extremity of a casting.
[3] Radiographs listed for 1/4 inch are applicable to castings up to and including 3/8 inch thick. Radiographs listed for
1/2 inch are applicable to casting thicknesses over 3/8 inch up to and including 5/8 inch. Radiographs listed for
3/4 inch are applicable to casting thicknesses over 5/8 inch up to and including 1 inch.
[4] Numbers in columns refer to the individual radiographic illustrations, showing increasing severity of the specific
discontinuity.
[5] Radiographs for 1/4 thickness are not available. Use radiographs for 1/2 inch.
[6] Suggested standards proposed to develop industry consensus. Note to users, Tables 15A and 15B were
introduced at the revision AMS2175A to assist standardization. Designers should carefully review these criteria to
ensure suitability for their casting application and specify other criteria when appropriate.
SAE AMS2175A Page 20 of 20

TABLE 15B – SUGGESTED MAXIMUM PERMISSIBLE RADIOGRAPHIC SEVERITY LEVELS

FOR DISCONTINUITIES IN TITANIUM CASTINGS OVER ONE INCH IN THICKNESS
IN ACCORDANCE WITH ASTM E1320 [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6]
Discontinuity Grade A Grade B Grade C Grade D
Inch Inch Inch Inch
1 1/4 1 3/4 1 1/4 1 3/4 1 1/4 1 3/4 1 1/4 1 3/4
Gas Holes 2 2 3 3 4 4 5 5
Scattered Gas Holes 1 1 2 2 4 4 5 5
Clustered Gas Holes 2 2 3 3 4 4 5 5
Centerline Shrink 1 1 2 2 4 3 6 6
Shrinkage Cavity 1 1 1 1 2 2 4 3
Notes:
[1] When two or more types of discontinuities are present to an extent equal the acceptance
standard for respective discontinuities, the parts shall be rejected.
[2] Gas holes, sand spots, or inclusions allowed by this table shall be cause for rejection when
closer than twice their maximum dimension to a finished edge or extremity of a casting.
[3] Radiographs listed for 1-1/4 inches are applicable to castings over one inch in thickness up to
and including 1-1/2 inches thick. Radiographs listed for 1-3/4 inches are applicable to casting
thicknesses over 1-1/2 inches.
[4] Numbers in columns refer to the individual radiographic illustrations, showing increasing severity
of the specific discontinuity.
[5] Note to users, Tables 15A and 15B were introduced at the revision AMS2175A to assist
standardization. Designers should carefully review these criteria to ensure suitability for their
casting application and specify other criteria when appropriate.
[6] Suggested standards proposed to develop industry consensus. Note to users, Tables 15A and
15B were introduced at the revision AMS2175A to assist standardization. Designers should
carefully review these criteria to ensure suitability for their casting application and specify other
criteria when appropriate.