NOTICE: This standard has either been superseded and replaced by a new version or discontinued.

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An American National Standard
Designation: A 703/A 703M – 01b

Standard Specification for

Steel Castings, General Requirements, for Pressure-
Containing Parts1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation A 703/A 703M; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year
of original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval.
A superscript epsilon (e) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.

1. Scope 2. Referenced Documents

1.1 This specification2 covers a group of common require- 2.1 ASTM Standards:
ments that, unless otherwise specified in an individual speci- A 216/A 216M Specification for Steel Castings, Carbon,
fication, shall apply to steel castings for pressure-containing Suitable for Fusion Welding, for High-Temperature Ser-
parts under each of the following ASTM specifications: vice3
Title of Specification ASTM Designation A 217/A 217M Specification for Steel Castings, Martensi-
tic Stainless and Alloy, for Pressure-Containing Parts
Steel Castings, Carbon, Suitable for Fusion Welding A 216/A 216M
for High-Temperature Service
Suitable for High-Temperature Service3
Steel Castings, Martensitic Stainless and Alloy, for A 217/A 217M A 351/A 351M Specification for Castings, Austenitic,
Pressure-Containing Parts Suitable for High- Austenitic-Ferritic (Duplex), for Pressure-Containing
Temperature Service
Steel Castings, Austenitic, for High-Temperature A 351/A 351M
Parts3
Service A 352/A 352M Specification for Steel Castings, Ferritic
Steel Castings, Ferritic and Martensitic, for Pressure- A 352/A 352M and Martensitic, for Pressure-Containing Parts, Suitable
Containing Parts Suitable for Low-Temperature
Service for Low-Temperature Service3
Steel Castings, Alloy, Specially Heat-Treated, for A 389/A 389M A 370 Test Methods and Definitions for Mechanical Testing
Pressure-Containing Parts, Suitable for High- of Steel Products4
Temperature Service
Steel Castings Suitable for Pressure Service A 487/A 487M A 380 Practice for Cleaning, Descaling, and Passivation of
Stainless Steel Parts, Equipment, and Systems4
1.2 This specification also covers a group of supplementary A 389/A 389M Specification for Steel Castings, Alloy,
requirements which may be applied to the above specifications Specially Heat-Treated, for Pressure-Containing Parts,
as indicated therein. These are provided for use when addi- Suitable for High-Temperature Service3
tional testing or inspection is desired and apply only when A 487/A 487M Specification for Steel Castings Suitable
specified individually by the purchaser in the order. for Pressure Service3
1.3 In case of conflict between the requirements of the A 488/A 488M Practice for Steel Castings, Welding, Quali-
individual specification and this general specification, the fication of Procedures and Personnel3
former shall prevail. A 609/A 609M Practice for Castings, Carbon, Low-Alloy,
1.4 The values stated in either inch-pound units or SI units and Martensitic Stainless Steel, Ultrasonic Examination
are to be regarded separately as standard. Within the text, the Thereof3
SI units are shown in brackets. The values stated in each A 751 Test Methods, Practices, and Terminology for
system are not exact equivalents; therefore, each system must Chemical Analysis of Steel Products4
be used independently of the other. Combining values from the A 800/A 800M Practice for Steel Castings, Austenitic Al-
two systems may result in nonconformance with the specifi- loy, Estimating Ferrite Content Thereof3
cation. Inch-pound units are applicable for material ordered to A 802/A 802M Practice for Steel Castings, Surface Accep-
Specification A 703 and SI units for material ordered to tance Standards, Visual Examination3
Specification A 703M. A 903/A 903M Specification for Steel Castings, Surface
Acceptance Standards, Magnetic Particle and Liquid Pen-
etrant Inspection3
1
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee A01 on Steel,
A 941 Terminology Relating to Steel, Stainless Steel, Re-
Stainless Steel, and Related Alloys and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee lated Alloys, and Ferroalloys5
A01.18 on Castings.
Current edition approved Dec. 10, 2001. Published February 2002. Originally
published as A 703 – 74. Last previous edition A 703/A 703M – 01a. 3
Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol 01.02.
2
For ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code applications see related Specifi- 4
Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol 01.03.
cation SA-703/SA-703M in Section II of that Code. 5
Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol 01.01.

Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959, United States.

1
NOTICE: This standard has either been superseded and replaced by a new version or discontinued.
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A 703/A 703M
A 967 Specification for Chemical Passivation Treatments 4. Materials and Manufacture
for Stainless Steel Parts4 4.1 Melting Process—The steel shall be made by open-
A 991/A 991M Test Method for Conducting Temperature hearth or electric-furnace process, with or without separate
Uniformity Surveys of Furnaces Used to Heat Treat Steel refining such as argon-oxygen-decarburization (AOD), unless
Products4 otherwise designated by the individual specification.
E 29 Practice for Using Significant Digits in Test Data to 4.2 Heat Treatment—Ferritic and martensitic steel shall be
Determine Conformance With Specifications6 cooled after pouring to provide substantially complete trans-
E 94 Guide for Radiographic Examination7 formation of austenite prior to heat treatment to enhance
E 125 Reference Photographs for Magnetic Particle Indica- mechanical properties.
tions on Ferrous Castings7
E 165 Test Method for Liquid Penetrant Examination7 5. Chemical Composition
E 186 Reference Radiographs for Heavy-Walled (2 to 41⁄2- 5.1 Chemical Analysis—Chemical analysis of materials
in. (51 to 114-mm)) Steel Castings7 covered by this specification shall be in accordance with Test
E 208 Test Method for Conducting Drop-Weight Test to Methods A 751.
Determine Nil-Ductility Transition Temperature of Ferritic 5.2 Heat Analysis—An analysis of each heat shall be made
Steels8 by the manufacturer to determine the percentages of the
E 280 Reference Radiographs for Heavy-Walled (41⁄2 to elements specified. The analysis shall be made from a test
12-in. (114 to 305-mm)) Steel Castings7 sample preferably taken during the pouring of the heat. When
E 340 Test Method for Macroetching Metals and Alloys8 drillings are used, they shall be taken not less than 1⁄4 in. [6.4
E 446 Reference Radiographs for Steel Castings up to 2 in. mm] beneath the surface. The chemical composition thus
(51 mm) in Thickness7 determined shall be reported to the purchaser, or his represen-
E 709 Guide for Magnetic Particle Examination7 tative, and shall conform to the requirements in the individual
2.2 ANSI Standard: specification for the grade being poured.
B16.5 Steel Pipe Flanges and Flanged Fittings9 5.3 Product Analysis—A product analysis may be made by
2.3 Standards of the Manufacturer’s Standardization Soci- the purchaser from material representing each heat, lot, or
ety of the Valve and Fitting Industry: casting. The analysis shall be made on representative material.
MSS SP 53 Quality Standard for Steel Castings for Valves, Due to the possibility of decarburization, carbon and alloy steel
Flanges and Fittings, and Other Piping Components (Dry samples for carbon analysis shall be taken no closer than 1⁄4 in.
Powder Magnetic Particle Inspection Method)10 [6.4 mm] to a cast surface except that castings too thin for this
MSS SP 54 Quality Standard for Steel Castings for Valves, shall be analyzed on representative material. The chemical
Flanges and Fittings, and Other Piping Components (Ra- composition thus determined shall meet the requirements
diographic Inspection Method)10 specified in the applicable specification for the grade involved,
or shall be subject to rejection by the purchaser, except that the
3. Terminology chemical composition determined for carbon and low-alloy
3.1 Definitions: steel castings may vary from the specified limits by the
3.1.1 The definitions in Test Methods and Definitions A 370 amounts shown in Table 1. The product analysis tolerances of
and Terminology A 941 are applicable to this specification and Table 1 are not applicable as acceptance criteria for heat
those listed in 1.1. analysis by the casting manufacturer.
3.1.2 chaplet, n—a chaplet is a metallic support placed in a 5.4 Unspecified Elements—When chemical analysis for el-
mold cavity to maintain the spacing between a core and the ements not specified for the grade ordered is desired, Supple-
mold. mentary Requirement S1 may be specified.
3.1.3 electronic data interchange (EDI), n—the computer- 5.4.1 Grade substitution for stainless and nickel base alloy
to-computer exchange of business information in a standard castings is not permitted. Grade substitution occurs when the
format such as ANSI ASC X12. material supplied: (1) contains an element, other the nitrogen,
3.1.4 heat, n—all the molten metal poured from a single that is not specified in the ordered grade, and (2) the amount of
furnace or all the molten metal from two or more furnaces that element equals or exceeds the minimum requirement for
poured into a single ladle or casting prior to the replenishing of the element in another grade for which it is specified. For this
the furnace(s). requirement, a grade is defined as an alloy described individu-
3.1.5 internal chill, n—an internal chill is a metallic device ally in a table of chemical requirements within any specifica-
placed in a mold cavity to increase the rate of heat removal at tion listed within the scope of this section.
that location. 5.5 The substitution of a grade or composition different
from that specified by the purchaser is prohibited.
5.6 Where more than one ladle is poured into a single
6
Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol 14.02. casting, the molten metal in each ladle must conform to the
7
8
Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol 03.03. specified chemical requirements.
Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol 03.01.
9
Available from American National Standards Institute, 25 W. 43rd St., 4th 6. Mechanical Test Methods
Floor, New York, NY 10036.
10
Available from the Manufacturers’ Standardization Society of the Valve and 6.1 All mechanical tests shall be conducted in accordance
Fittings Industry, 127 Park St., NE, Vienna, VA 22180. with Test Methods and Definitions A 370.

2
NOTICE: This standard has either been superseded and replaced by a new version or discontinued.
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A 703/A 703M
TABLE 1 Product Analysis Tolerances for Carbon and Low-Alloy represented, except that for investment castings the test speci-
Steels mens shall be cast in the same type of mold as the castings.11
TolerancesB,C over max or 7.2 The bar from which the test specimen is taken shall be
Element RangeA
under min, Limit, %
heat treated in production furnaces to the same procedure as the
Carbon (C) up to 0.65 % 0.03 3 % CL + 0.02 castings it represents.
above 0.65 % 0.04 %
Manganese (Mn) up to 1 % 0.08 3 % MnL+ 0.01 7.3 Test specimens may be cut from heat treated castings, at
above 1 % 0.09 the producer’s option, instead of from test bars.
Silicon (Si) up to 0.60 % 0.22 3 % SiL− 0.01
above 0.60 % 0.15 %
7.4 Investment Castings—For investment castings, the
Phosphorus (P) all 0.13 3 % PL+ 0.005 specimens may be cast to shape or machined from blocks to
Sulfur (S) all 0.36 3 % SL+ 0.001 dimensions in accordance with Test Methods and Definitions
Nickel (Ni) up to 2 % 0.10 3 % NiL+ 0.03
above 2 % 0.25 %
A 370 or the ICI bar shown in Fig. 1.
Chromium (Cr) up to 2 % 0.07 3 % CrL+ 0.04 7.5 Other Castings— Unless otherwise specified by the
above 2 % 0.18 % purchaser, test coupons may be cast integrally with the castings
Molybdenum (Mo) up to 0.6 % 0.04 3 % MoL + 0.03
above 0.6 % 0.06 %
or as separate blocks in accordance with Fig. 2 and Table 2,
Vanadium (V) up to 0.25 % 0.23 3 % VL + 0.004 with Fig. 3, or with Fig. 4, except when Supplementary
above 0.25 % 0.06 % Requirement S26 is specified. The test coupon in Fig. 4 shall be
Tungsten (W) up to 0.10 % 0.08 3 % WL + 0.02
above 0.10 % 0.02 %
employed only for austenitic alloy castings with cross sections
Copper (Cu) up to 0.15 % 0.18 3 % CuL + 0.02 less than 21⁄2 in. [63.5 mm]. Tension test coupons shall be
above 0.15 % 0.05 % machined or ground to the form and dimension shown in Fig.
Aluminum (Al) up to 0.03 % 0.01 %
0.03 to 0.10 %, incl. 0.083 % Al + 0.02 6 of Test Methods and Definitions A 370.
above 0.10 % 0.03 % 7.6 If any specimen shows defective machining or develops
A
The range denotes the composition limits up to which the tolerances are flaws, it may be discarded and another substituted from the
computed by the equation, and above which the tolerances are given by a same heat.
constant.
B
The subscript L for the elements in each equation indicates that the limits of the
7.7 To determine conformance with the tension test require-
element specified by the applicable specification are to be inserted into the ments, an observed value or calculated value shall be rounded
equation to calculate the tolerance for the upper limit and the lower limit, if off in accordance with Practice E 29 to the nearest 500 psi [5
applicable, respectively. Examples of computing tolerances are presented in the
footnote C.
MPa] for yield and tensile strength and to the nearest 1 % for
C
To compute the tolerances, consider the manganese limits 0.50 − 80 % of elongation and reduction of area.
Grade WC4 of Specification A 217/A 217M. According to Table 1, the maximum
permissible deviation of a product analysis below the lower limit 0.50 is 0.05 % = 8. Repair by Welding
(0.08 3 0.50 + 0.01). The lowest acceptable product analysis of Grade WC4,
therefore, is 0.45 %. Similarly, the maximum permissible deviation above the 8.1 Repair by welding shall be in accordance with the
upper limit of 0.80 % is 0.074 % = (0.083 0.80 + 0.01). The highest acceptable requirements of individual specification using procedures and
product analysis of Grade WC4, therefore, is 0.874. For Grade WCC of Specifi-
cation A 216/A 216M, the maximum manganese content is 1.20 % if the carbon
welders qualified in accordance with Practice A 488/A 488M.
content is 0.20 %. In this case, the highest acceptable product analysis is 1.29 =
(1.20 + 0.09). 9. Flanges
9.1 When a flange from a flanged casting is removed to
7. Tensile Requirements
11
Information on the relationship of mechanical properties determined on test
7.1 One tension test shall be made from each heat, and shall
coupons obtained as specified in 7.1 and 7.4 with those obtained from the casting
conform to the tensile requirements specified. Test bars shall be may be found in “The Steel Castings Handbook,” Fifth Edition, Steel Founders’
poured in special blocks from the same heat as the castings Society of America, 1980, pp. 15–35 through 15–43.

Metric Equivalents
in. 0.005 ⁄
18 0.252 0.375 0.385 9⁄16 1 1⁄4 3
[mm] [0.15] [3] [6.40] [9.50] [9.75] [15] [30] [75]
FIG. 1 Design and Dimensions of the ICI Test Bar

3
NOTICE: This standard has either been superseded and replaced by a new version or discontinued.
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A 703/A 703M

FIG. 2 Test Coupons for Castings (see Table 2 for Details of Design)

TABLE 2 Details of Test Coupon Design for Casting (See Fig. 2)

NOTE 1—Test Coupons for Large and Heavy Steel Castings: The test coupons in Fig. 2 are to be used for large and heavy steel castings. However,
at the option of the foundry the cross-sectional area and length of the standard coupon may be increased as desired.
NOTE 2—Bend Bar: If a bend bar is required, an alternate design (as shown by dotted lines in Fig. 2) is indicated.
Leg Design [125 mm] Riser Design
1. L (length) A 5 in. [125 mm] minimum length will be 1. L (length) The length of the riser at the base will be
used. This length may be increased at the option the same as the top length of the leg. The length of
of the foundry to accommodate additional test the riser at the top therefore depends on the amount of
bars (see Note 1). taper added to the riser.
2. End taper Use of and size of end taper is at the option of 2. Width The width of the riser at the base of a multiple-leg coupon
the foundry. shall be n, 2 1⁄4 [57 mm] − 5⁄8 [16 mm] where n equals
3. Height 1 1⁄4 in. [32 mm] the number of legs attached to the coupon. The width of
4. Width (at top) 1 1⁄4 in. [32 mm] (see Note 1). the riser at the top is therefore dependent on the amount
5. Radius (at bottom) 1⁄2 in. [13 mm], max

6. Spacing between legs A 1⁄2-in. [13-mm] radius will be used between of taper added to the riser.
the legs.
7. Location of test bars The tensile, bend, and impact bars will be 3. T (riser taper) Use of and size is at the option of the foundry.
taken from the lower portion of the leg
(see Note 2). Height The minimum height of the riser shall be 2 in. [51 mm].
The maximum height is at the option of the foundry for
8. Number of legs The number of legs attached to the coupon is at the following reasons: (a) Many risers are cast open,
the option of the foundry providing they are (b) different compositions may require variation in
equispaced according to Item 6. risering for soundness, (c) different pouring
9. Rs Radius from 0 to approximately 1⁄16 in. [2 mm]. temperatures may require variation in risering
for soundness.

make a weld end casting, discontinuities may be observed that 10. Quality
would not have been detrimental in a flanged casting. The
10.1 The surface of the casting shall be free of adhering
disposition of the casting shall be subject to agreement between
sand, scale, cracks, and hot tears as determined by visual
the purchaser and manufacturer.

4
NOTICE: This standard has either been superseded and replaced by a new version or discontinued.
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A 703/A 703M

Metric Equivalents
in. mm in. mm
⁄
18 3.2 31⁄2 88.9
1⁄2 12.7 4 101.6
11⁄16 27.0 41⁄16 103.2
11⁄2 38.1 5 127.0
3 76.2 11 279.4

NOTE 1—Pour through head; cover molten head with powdered charcoal, coke dust, etc., immediately after pouring, in order to keep head fluid as long
as possible.
FIG. 3 Test Block for Tension Test Specimen

examination. Other surface discontinuities shall meet the visual and shall conform to the dimensions on drawings furnished by
acceptance standards specified in the order. Practice A 802/ the purchaser. When the pattern is supplied by the purchaser,
A 802M or other visual standards may be used to define the dimensions of the casting shall be as predicated by the
acceptable surface discontinuities and finish. Unacceptable pattern unless otherwise agreed upon.
visual surface discontinuities shall be removed and their 12.2 Machined welding ends shall be suitably protected
removal verified by visual examination of the resultant cavi- against damage during shipping.
ties.
13. Retests
10.2 The castings shall not be peened, plugged, or impreg-
nated to stop leaks. 13.1 If the results of the mechanical tests for any heat, lot,
10.3 Internal chills and chaplets may be used in the manu- or casting do not conform to the requirements specified, retests
facture of castings. However, the chills, chaplets, and affected are permitted as outlined in Test Methods and Definitions
cast material must be completely removed. A 370. At the manufacturer’s option, castings may be reheat-
treated and retested. When castings are reheat-treated, they
11. Hydrostatic Tests may not be reaustenitized more than three times without the
11.1 Each casting shall be tested after machining to the approval of the purchaser. Testing after reheat treatment shall
hydrostatic shell test pressures prescribed in ANSI B16.5 for consist of the full number of specimens taken from locations
the applicable steel rating for which the casting is designed. complying with the specification or order.
Casting shall show no leaks. Castings ordered for working
pressures other than those in the standard ANSI ratings, or 14. Inspection
those listed for which test pressures are not specified by ANSI 14.1 The manufacturer shall afford the purchaser’s inspector
B16.5, shall be tested at a pressure agreed upon between all reasonable facilities necessary to satisfy that the material is
manufacturer and the purchaser. being produced and furnished in accordance with the appli-
11.2 It is realized that the foundry may be unable to perform cable specification. Foundry inspection by the purchaser shall
the hydrostatic test prior to shipment, or that the purchaser may not interfere unnecessarily with the manufacturer’s operations.
wish to defer testing until additional work or machining has All tests and inspections, with the exception of product
been performed on the casting. Castings ordered in the rough analysis (5.2), shall be made at the place of manufacture unless
state for final machining by the purchaser may be tested otherwise agreed.
hydrostatically prior to shipment by the manufacturer at 15. Rejection and Rehearing
pressures to be agreed upon with the purchaser. However, the
foundry is responsible for the satisfactory performance of the 15.1 Any rejection based on test reports shall be reported to
castings under the final test required in 10.1. the manufacturer within 30 days from the receipt of the test
reports by the purchaser.
12. Workmanship, Finish, and Appearance 15.2 Material that shows unacceptable discontinuities as
12.1 All castings shall be made in a workmanlike manner determined by the acceptance standards specified in the order

5
NOTICE: This standard has either been superseded and replaced by a new version or discontinued.
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A 703/A 703M

FIG. 4 Cast-To-Shape Test Coupon for Tension Test Specimen

subsequent to its acceptance at the manufacturer’s works will cation and supplementary requirements specified in the pur-
be rejected, and the manufacturer shall be notified within 30 chase order,
days after discovery of the rejectable condition. 16.2.6 Statement of satisfactory inspection, visual, and non-
15.3 Samples that represent rejected material shall be pre- destructive testing specified in the purchase order,
served for two weeks from the date of transmission of the test 16.2.7 Manufacturer’s name, and
report. In case of dissatisfaction with the results of the tests, the 16.2.8 Additional purchase order requirements.
manufacturer may make claim for a rehearing within that time. 16.3 A signature is not required on the certification. How-
ever, the document shall clearly identify the organization
16. Certification submitting the certification. Notwithstanding the absence of a
16.1 The manufacturer’s certification shall be furnished to signature, the organization submitting the certification is re-
the purchaser stating that the material was manufactured, sponsible for its content.
sampled, tested, and inspected in accordance with the material 16.4 A manufacturer’s certification printed from or used in
specification (including year of issue) and was found to meet electronic form from an electronic data interchange (EDI)
the requirements. transmission shall be regarded as having the same validity as a
16.2 As applicable, the certification shall also include: counterpart printed in the certifier’s facility provided it con-
16.2.1 Material specification and grade, forms to any existing EDI agreement between the purchaser
16.2.2 Pattern number, and the supplier.
16.2.3 Heat number or serial number traceable to a heat
number, 17. Product Marking
16.2.4 Chemical analysis of the heat, 17.1 Castings shall be marked for material identification
16.2.5 Mechanical property results required by the specifi- with the grade symbols (WCB, WC9, CF8M, and so forth). In

6
NOTICE: This standard has either been superseded and replaced by a new version or discontinued.
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A 703/A 703M
addition, heat numbers, or serial numbers that are traceable to be on a raised pad when such pad can be made a part of the
heat numbers, shall be marked on all pressure-containing castings.
castings individually weighing 50 lb [22.7 kg] or more. 17.3 Castings shall be marked with the manufacturer’s
Pressure-containing castings weighing less than 50 lb [22.7 kg] identification or symbol except when other provisions have
shall be marked with either the heat number or a lot number been made between the manufacturer and purchaser.
that will identify the casting as to the month in which it was
poured. Marking shall be in such position as not to injure the
18. Keywords
usefulness of the casting.
17.2 On castings for which impact property requirements 18.1 castings; general requirements; pressure containing;
are specified, stamped markings using low-stress stamps shall steel

SUPPLEMENTARY REQUIREMENTS

The following standardized supplementary requirements are for use when desired by the purchaser
and when allowed by and listed in the individual specifications. They shall not apply unless specified
in the order, in which event the specified tests shall be made by the manufacturer before shipment of
the castings.

S1. Unspecified Elements types and degrees of discontinuities considered shall be judged
S1.1 Limits may be established for elements not specified by the Reference Photographs E 125. Extent of examination,
for the grade ordered by agreement between the manufacturer time of examination, and basis for acceptance shall be agreed
and purchaser. The results of the analysis for the agreed-upon upon between the manufacturer and purchaser. A specification
elements shall be reported. which may be used as a basis for such agreement is MSS SP
53.
S2. Destruction Tests S4.2 Personnel performing the examination shall be quali-
S2.1 Purchaser may select representative castings from each fied in accordance with an acceptable written practice.
heat and cut up and etch, or otherwise prepare, the sections for
S5. Radiographic Inspection
examination for internal defects. Should injurious defects be
found that evidence unsound steel or faulty foundry technique, S5.1 Castings shall be examined for internal defects by
all the castings made from that particular pattern, heat, and heat means of X rays or gamma rays. The procedure shall be in
treatment charge may be rejected. All the rejected castings, accordance with Guide E 94 and types and degrees of discon-
including those cut up, shall be replaced by the manufacturer tinuities considered shall be judged by Reference Radiographs
without charge. E 446, E 186, or E 280. Extent of examination and basis for
acceptance shall be agreed upon between the manufacturer and
S3. Bend Test purchaser. A specification that may be used as a basis for such
S3.1 One bend test shall be made from a test coupon from agreement is MSS SP 54.
each heat in accordance with Test Methods and Definitions S5.2 Radiographic examination of castings may be per-
A 370, and shall be machined to 1 by 1⁄2-in. [25 by 13-mm] formed before or after any heat treatment.
section with corners rounded to a radius not over 1⁄16 in. [1.6 S5.3 Personnel performing the examination shall be quali-
mm]. fied in accordance with an acceptable written practice.
S3.2 The specimen shall withstand being bent longitudi-
nally at room temperature through an angle of 90° about a pin S6. Liquid Penetrant Inspection
the diameter of which shall be the specimen thickness for S6.1 Castings shall be examined for surface discontinuities
carbon steels, and 1 in. [25 mm] for other steels. The specimen by means of liquid penetrant inspection. The examination shall
shall show no cracks on the outside of the bent portion of the be in accordance with Test Method E 165. Areas to be
specimen. inspected, time of inspection, methods and types of liquid
S3.3 Bend test specimens may be cut from heat-treated penetrants to be used, developing procedure, and basis for
castings instead of from test bars when agreed upon between acceptance shall be agreed upon between the manufacturer and
manufacturer and purchaser. purchaser. A specification that may be used as a basis for such
S3.4 If any test specimen shows defective machining or agreement is Specification A 903/A 903M.
develops flaws, it may be discarded and another specimen S6.2 Personnel performing the examination shall be quali-
substituted from the same heat. fied in accordance with an acceptable written practice.

S4. Magnetic Particle Inspection S7. Ultrasonic Inspection

S4.1 Castings shall be examined for surface and near S7.1 Castings shall be examined for internal defects by
surface discontinuities by magnetic particle inspection. The means of ultrasonic inspection. The inspection procedure shall
examination shall be in accordance with Guide E 709; and be in accordance with Practice A 609/A 609M. Extent of

7
NOTICE: This standard has either been superseded and replaced by a new version or discontinued.
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A 703/A 703M
examination, methods of testing, and basis for acceptance shall Methods and Definitions A 370. The test location and the
be agreed upon between the manufacturer and purchaser. A hardness requirements shall be agreed upon between the
standard that may be used as a basis for such agreement is manufacturer and the purchaser.
Practice A 609/A 609M.
S7.2 Ultrasonic examination of castings shall be performed S14. Tension Test from Each Heat and Heat Treatment
after at least one heat treatment above the critical temperature Charge
range but need not be repeated after subsequent heat treatment. S14.1 One tension test shall be made for each heat and heat
S7.3 Personnel performing the examination shall be quali- treatment charge.
fied in accordance with an acceptable written practice.
S15. Quench and Temper Heat Treatment
S8. Charpy Impact Test S15.1 The castings shall be quenched and tempered. Cast-
S8.1 Charpy impact test properties shall be determined on ings so treated shall be marked QT.
each heat from a set of three charpy V-notch specimens made
from a test coupon in accordance with Test Methods and S17. Tension Test from Castings
Definitions A 370, and tested at a test temperature agreed upon S17.1 In addition to the tensile test required in Section 6,
by the manufacturer and purchaser. The acceptance require- test material shall be cut from heat treated castings. The
ments shall be either energy absorbed, lateral expansion, or mechanical properties and location for the test material shall be
percent shear area, or all three, and shall be that agreed upon by agreed upon by the manufacturer and purchaser.
the manufacturer and purchaser. Test specimens shall be
prepared as Type A and tested in accordance with Test Methods S18. Tension Test for Castings Each Weighing 10 000 lb
and Definitions A 370. [4500 kg] or More
S8.2 Absorbed Energy—Average energy value of three S18.1 Two tensile tests shall be made for each casting. The
specimens shall be not less than specified, with not more than test specimens shall be prepared in accordance with Section 6.
one value permitted to fall below the minimum specified and The location of the test bars shall be agreed upon by the
no value permitted below the minimum specified for a single manufacturer and purchaser.
specimen.
S8.3 Lateral Expansion—Lateral expansion value shall be S20. Weld Repair Charts
agreed upon by the manufacturer and purchaser. S20.1 Major weld repairs shall be documented by means of
S8.4 Percent Shear Area—Percent shear area shall be sketches or photographs, or both, showing the location and
agreed upon by the manufacturer and purchaser. major dimensions of cavities prepared for welding. Documen-
S9. Drop Weight Tests tation shall be submitted to the purchaser at the completion of
the order.
S9.1 Drop weight test properties shall be determined from S20.2 A weld repair shall be considered major when it is
each heat by preparing and testing either Type P1, P2, or P3 made to correct leakage on hydrostatic testing, or when the
specimens in accordance with Test Method E 208. The crack depth of the cavity prepared for welding exceeds 20 % of the
starter weld shall be deposited on the surface of the specimen actual wall thickness or 1 in. [25 mm], whichever is smaller, or
that was nearest to the casting surface. Each test shall consist when the extent of the cavity exceeds approximately 10 in.2
of at least two specimens tested at a temperature agreed upon [65 cm2].
by the manufacturer and purchaser. Each specimen shall
exhibit “no break” performance. S21. Heat Treatment Furnace Record
S10. Examination of Weld Preparation S21.1 A heat treatment chart showing time and temperature
shall be prepared and be available for inspection by the
S10.1 Magnetic particle or liquid penetrant examination of
purchaser.
cavities prepared for welding shall be performed to verify
removal of those discontinuities found unacceptable by the S22. Heat Treatment
inspection method specified for the casting. The method of
S22.1 Test specimens shall be heat-treated together with the
performing magnetic particle or liquid penetrant examination
castings they represent. Heat-treated specimens shall be tested
shall be in accordance with Guide E 709 or Test Method E 165.
and shall meet the tensile and impact properties specified.
Unless other degrees of shrinkage or types of discontinuities
S22.2 The remaining test specimens from Supplementary
found in the cavities are specified, Type II, Internal Shrinkage,
Requirement S22.1 representing the casting shall be treated
of Reference Photographs E 125, of Degree 2 in sections up to
thermally after the final (foundry) heat-treatment to simulate
2 in. [50 mm] thick and of Degree 3 in sections over 2 in. [50
heat-treatments below the critical temperature which the cast-
mm] thick shall be acceptable.
ing may receive during fabrication, and then tested for me-
S12. Prior Approval of Major Weld Repairs chanical properties. Time, temperature and cooling rate shall be
S12.1 Major weld repairs shall be subject to the prior as stated in the order. In the case of postweld heat-treatment,
approval of the purchaser. the total time at temperature or temperatures for the test
material shall be at least 80 % of the total time at temperature
S13. Hardness Test or temperatures during actual postweld heat-treatment of the
S13.1 A hardness test shall be made in accordance with Test fabrication of which the casting or castings are a part. The total

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A 703/A 703M
time at temperature or temperatures for the test material may be Method E 340 shall be followed. The resulting etched surface
performed in a single cycle. When this Supplementary Re- shall be compared and rated with the reference photographs in
quirement is specified, the welding qualification test metal Fig. S23.1 depicting 10 levels of severity of intergranular
must be processed in the same manner. network structures indicative of the presence of aluminum
nitride, or other constituents prone toward precipitating at grain
S23. Macroetch Test
boundaries during solidification and subsequent cooling. Table
S23.1 Apply Supplementary Requirement S1 for the spec- S23.1 relates the severity levels shown in these photographs
trographic determination and reporting of the total residual with specific delineation widths and percent of boundary
aluminum content of all heats of ferritic and martensitic steels outlining in the etched structures.
subjected to this macroetch test. S23.4 Castings represented by etched structures exhibiting a
S23.2 When the heat analysis indicates a total residual network rating in excess of Severity Level 4 shall be consid-
aluminum content in excess of 0.08 %, the manufacturer shall ered unacceptable until further evaluations are completed. The
etch a cross section of the casting with the heaviest section for acceptability of individual castings may be determined by
which this supplementary requirement is invoked, or a coupon etching sections of each casting to ascertain the network
attached to that heaviest section or an area directly under a riser severity level. Disposition of unacceptable castings shall be a
(Note S23.1). Cross sections, from a separately cast test block matter of agreement between the manufacturer and purchaser.
from the same heat and of a thickness representative of the Those castings exhibiting etched severity levels greater than
heaviest section of castings purchased under this supplemen- four may be further evaluated by any of the following agreed
tary requirement, may also be used for macroetch testing. The upon methods:
etching shall be performed on the selected section after its
S23.4.1 Fracture testing to determine the amount of “rock
heat-treatment, that is, after annealing, normalizing, or quench-
candy” structure.
ing and tempering following the initial cooling of the steel
below the transformation range. S23.4.2 Mechanical testing (bend, tensile, and so forth) to
NOTE S23.1—High strength martensitic castings, in particu- determine the ductility characteristics.
lar, may be damaged beyond use if the etch is applied directly S23.4.3 Weld testing to determine crack susceptibility in the
to the casting. heat-affected zone of a circular groove welded with cellulose
S23.3 The preparation of the surface and the macroetching coated electrodes.
procedure with solution No. 1 (1:1 HCl) of Table 5 in Test S23.5 Alternatively, by agreement, it is permissible to

NOTE 1—The 10 levels of severity of intergranular network structures shown are indicative of the presence of aluminum nitride precipitation in the
primary austenitic grain boundaries.
FIG. S23.1 Reference Photographs of Macroetched Cast Steel

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A 703/A 703M
TABLE S23.1 Descriptive Data Applicable to Network Structures with the castings they represent.
Shown in Fig. S23.1
S26.2 The casting thickness, T, is the maximum thickness of
NOTE 1—These ratings are based on the physical width and continuity the pressure containing wall of the casting exclusive of padding
of the precipitate pattern developed by the acid etchant on the primary added for directional solidification, flanges, appendages, and
austenitic grain boundaries of the cast steel. Supplementary testing is
sections designated by the designer as noncritical. The order,
normally conducted to determine the final disposition of castings with
ratings of 5 or greater. inquiry, and drawing shall designate what the test dimension,
Rating Delineation Width, in. Boundary Outline, %
T, is for the casting.
1 Fine–0.001 20
S26.3 One of the following shall apply:
2 Fine–0.001 40 S26.3.1 The longitudinal centerline of the test specimen
3 Fine–0.001 60
4 Fine–0.002 80
shall be taken at least 1⁄4 T from the T dimension surface and
5 Fine–0.002 100 all of the gage length must be at least 1T from any other
6 Medium–0.005 100 heat-treated surface, exclusive of the surface opposite the T
7 Heavy–0.010 100
8 0.020 100 dimension surface. (See Fig. S26.1(a).) For cylindrical cast-
9 1⁄32 100 ings, the longitudinal centerline of the specimens shall be taken
10 1⁄16 100 at least 1⁄4 T from the outside or inside and all of the gage length
must be at least T from the as-heat-treated end. (See Fig.
subject castings from an unacceptable heat to a high tempera- S26.1(b).)
ture solution treatment prior to the normal production heat- S26.3.2 For ferritic and martensitic castings, partial sever-
treatment and subsequently macroetch test each casting. ing of test blocks prior to final heat treatment is permitted.
S23.6 Heavy section castings (3) whose configurations are S26.3.3 Where separately cast test coupons are used, the
amenable to the attachment of test coupons representative of dimension shall not be less than 3 T by 3 T by T and each
the section thickness involved and from which standard 0.505 specimen shall meet the requirements of S26.3.1, except that
in. [12.827 mm] diameter tension specimens may be machined when T exceeds 5 in. [125 mm], the dimension may be 15 by
are exempt from this macroetch test if the results of the tension 15 by 5 in. [375 by 375 by 125 mm], by agreement between the
test on the coupon after heat-treatment of the casting meet the manufacturer and the purchaser. The test coupon shall be of the
minimum requirements specified for the grade of steel in- same heat of steel and shall receive substantially the same
volved. casting practices as the production casting it represents. Cen-
NOTE S23.2—For purposes of this supplementary requirement, a heavy trifugal castings may be represented by statically cast coupons.
section casting is defined as one having a wall thickness of 11⁄2 in. [37 (See Fig. S26.2.)
mm] or greater in combination with a casting weight of at least 1000 lb S26.3.4 When agreed upon between the manufacturer and
[455 kg]. the purchaser, castings that are cast or machined to essentially
S24. Specified Ferrite Content Range the finished configuration prior to heat-treatment shall have test
specimens removed from a prolongation or other stock on the
S24.1 The chemical composition of the heat shall be con- casting at a location below the nearest heat-treated surface
trolled such that the ferrite content, as determined by the indicated on the order. The specimen location shall be at a
chemical composition procedure of Practice A 800/A 800M, distance below the nearest heat-treated surface equivalent to at
shall be in conformance with the specified ferrite content least the greatest distance that the indicated high-tensile-stress
range. surface will be from the nearest heat-treated surface and a
S24.2 The specified ferrite content range shall be as agreed minimum of twice this distance from a second heat-treated
upon between the manufacturer and the purchaser. The mini- surface, except that the test specimens shall be no nearer than
mum specified ferrite content range shall be 10 % with the 3⁄4 in. [19 mm] to a heat-treated surface and 11⁄2 in. [38 mm]
minimum ferrite content being no lower than the percent from a second heat-treated surface. (See Fig. S26.3.)
necessary to achieve the minimum mechanical properties
required for the alloy. S26.3.5 Where specimens are to be removed from the body
S24.3 Should the purchaser wish to have the ferrite content of quenched and tempered castings, either the requirements of
determined by either magnetic response or metallographic S26.3.1 shall be met or a steel thermal buffer pad or thermal
methods, the purchaser should impose supplementary require- insulation or other thermal barriers shall be used during
ment S1 or S2 of Practice A 800/A 800M. heat-treatment. Steel thermal buffer pads shall be a minimum
of T by T by 3 T in length and shall be joined to the casting
S25. Heat Treatment Certification surface by a partial penetration weld completely sealing the
S25.1 Heat treatment temperature and cycle times shall be buffered surface. Test specimens shall be removed from the
shown on the certification report. casting in a location adjacent to the center third of the buffer
pad. They shall be located at a minimum distance of 1⁄2 in. [13
S26. Alternate Tension Test Coupons and Specimen mm] from the buffered surface and 1⁄4 T from other heat-treated
Locations for Castings (in-lieu of Test Bars Poured surfaces (see Fig. S26.4). When thermal insulation is used, it
from Special Blocks) shall be applied adjacent to the casting surface where the test
S26.1 Test blocks may be cast integrally with the castings or specimens are to be removed. The producer shall demonstrate
as separate blocks. Test blocks shall be heat-treated together that the cooling rate of the test specimen location is no faster

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A 703/A 703M

FIG. S26.1 Specimen from Casting

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NOTICE: This standard has either been superseded and replaced by a new version or discontinued.
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A 703/A 703M

NOTE 1—Longitudinal axis and gage length of test specimen must be within cross-hatched zone.
FIG. S26.2 Separately Cast Block

NOTE 1—Longitudinal axis and gage length of test specimen must be within cross-hatched zone.
FIG. S26.3 Prolongation Test Specimen

than that of specimens taken by the method described in S29. Heat Treatment in the Working Zone of a Surveyed
S26.3.1 Furnace

S27. Hot Isostatic Pressing (HIPing) S29.1 Castings shall be heat treated in the working zone of
a furnace that has been surveyed in accordance with Test
S27.1 Castings shall be processed by Hot Isostatic Pressing
Method A 991/A 991M.
(HIPing). The processing parameters for the HIPing process
may be subject to an agreement between the manufacturer and S29.2 When castings are heat treated at temperatures above
purchaser. 2000°F [1100°C], then the working zone shall have been
established by a survey performed at not more than 25°F
S28. Cleaning of Stainless Steels [15°C] below nor more than 200°F [110°C] above the mini-
S28.1 Final cleaning of the casting surfaces shall be per- mum heat treatment temperature specified for the grade. If a
formed in accordance with one of the cleaning methods in minimum heat treatment temperature is not specified for the
Practice A 380 or Specification A 967 as agreed upon between grade, then the survey temperature shall be not more than 50°F
the purchaser and supplier. Acceptance testing shall be subject [30°C] below nor more than 175°F [100°C] above the furnace
to agreement between the purchaser and supplier. set point used.

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A 703/A 703M

NOTE 1—Longitudinal axis and gage length of test specimen must be within cross-hatched zone.
FIG. S26.4 Thermal Buffer Pads

APPENDIXES

(Nonmandatory Information)

X1. ALLOY DESIGNATIONS FOR CAST STAINLESS STEELS

X1.1 Cast stainless steels are usually specified on the basis X1.2.2 Ternary Diagram Location Letter—The second let-
of composition using the alloy designation system established ter indicates the approximate location of the nickel and
by the Alloy Casting Institute (ACI). The ACI designations, for chromium contents of the alloy grade on the FeCrNi ternary
example, CF8M, have been adopted by ASTM and are pre- diagram shown in Fig. X1.1.
ferred for cast alloys over the designations used by the X1.2.3 Carbon Content Number—For C service classifica-
American Iron and Steel Institute for similar wrought steels. tions, this single or dual digit numeral represents the maximum
carbon content in units of 0.01 %. For H service classifications,
X1.2 This nomenclature system has served sucessfully to this number represents the midpoint of the range of carbon
accommodate changes in old alloys and to designate new ones. content in terms of 0.01 % with a 60.05 % limit.
X1.2.4 Special Elements Letter—Additional letters follow-
ing the numeral represent special chemical elements in the
alloy grade, such as M for molybdenum, C for columbium, Cu
for copper, W for tungsten. There are two exceptions; the letter
A indicates “Controlled Ferrite,’’ and the letter F indicates
“Free Machining.”

X1.2.1 Service Classification Letter—The first letter of the X1.3 In Fig. X1.1, unlettered NiCr ranges are associated
cast stainless steel designation system identifies the intended with the nearest lettered location. They may be the result of
service application of the alloy. The letter C indicates differences between corrosion and heat-resistant types or be-
corrosion-resistant service, and the letter H indicates the cause of the influence of additional elements: for example, the
heat-resistant service at and above 1200°F [649°C]. precipitation hardening grade CB-7Cu.

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A 703/A 703M

NOTE 1—The approximate areas of microstructures to be expected at room temperature are indicated as follows:
I—Martensite
II—Martensite and untransformed austenite
III—Ferrite plus martensite and untransformed austenite
IV—Ferrite
V—Ferrite plus austenite
VI—Ferrite plus austenite plus sigma
VII—Austenite
Carbides also may be present depending on carbon content and thermal history.
FIG. X1.1 Letters Assigned to Chromium and Nickel Ranges in ACI Designation System

X2. ADDITION OF NEW GRADES TO PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS COVERED BY A 703/A 703M

X2.1 Data should be provided from a minimum of ten X2.1.3 The test coupon size from which the test specimens
production heats. This data should include: were removed, stated for each test.
X2.1.1 Chemical composition. X2.1.4 Heat treatment requirements.
X2.1.2 Mechanical properties, as applicable to the product X2.1.5 Welding procedure. (It is desired that the welding be
specification being cited. These may include, but are not performed with commercially available consumables.)
limited, to the following:
X2.1.6 Whether the material is covered by any patents, and
X2.1.2.1 Ultimate tensile strength,
if so, the expiration dates of those patents.
X2.1.2.2 Yield strength or yield point,
X2.1.2.3 Elongation,
X2.1.2.4 Reduction of area, X2.2 The inclusion of the proposed material should be
X2.1.2.5 Hardness, and supported by written request from at least one purchaser or user
X2.1.2.6 Impact properties (Charpy V-Notch). indicating the need for the new grade.

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