Key Industry Standards and Associations You Should Know in Precision Metalforming

Precision metalforming is a cornerstone of the metals industry, especially when it comes to high-performance materials like stainless steel, titanium, and nickel-based alloys. These processes require exacting standards to ensure quality, consistency, and safety. Several organizations set these standards and provide resources to guide companies in precision rerolling of strip coil, precision fine wire, and general precision metalforming. This article delves into the major standards and associations vital to the precision metalforming industry, exploring their origins, contributions, and impacts on manufacturing.

ASTM International (American Society for Testing and Materials)

Origins and Overview

ASTM International was founded in 1898 by a group of scientists and engineers, led by Charles Dudley, who were concerned about the frequent rail breaks causing accidents. Originally focused on the steel used in railroad tracks, ASTM has since expanded to develop over 12,000 standards that touch a wide array of industries, including metals.

Contributions to Manufacturing

ASTM standards are indispensable for ensuring the quality and reliability of materials and processes in precision metalforming. They cover mechanical properties, corrosion resistance, and dimensional tolerances. Unlike AMS standards, which tend to be alloy and product form specific, ASTM standards also address general or non-alloy-specific requirements, such as testing methods and general tolerances. Examples include:

• ASTM A480/A480M: This standard specification ensures consistent quality for flat-rolled stainless and heat-resisting steel plate, sheet, and strip, helping manufacturers produce reliable and uniform products.
• ASTM B265: Sets the bar for titanium and titanium alloy strip, sheet, and plate, ensuring these materials meet stringent industry requirements.
• ASTM E8/E8M: Provides standardized methods for tension testing of metallic materials, crucial for determining material performance under stress.

By providing these comprehensive standards, ASTM helps manufacturers maintain high quality, improve safety, and reduce material waste, fostering innovation and efficiency in the industry.

AMS (Aerospace Material Specifications)

Origins and Overview

The Aerospace Material Specifications (AMS) were developed by SAE International, originally founded as the Society of Automotive Engineers in 1905. SAE’s goal was to promote knowledge-sharing among automotive engineers, but it expanded to include aerospace and other engineering fields.

Contributions to Manufacturing

AMS standards are crucial for ensuring that materials used in aerospace applications meet rigorous performance and quality requirements. Unlike ASTM standards, which often cover general testing methods or material specifications, AMS standards are typically alloy and product form-specific, focusing on the precise needs of the aerospace industry. Key AMS standards applicable to Ulbrich’s supply include:

• AMS 5596: Specifies requirements for nickel alloy Inconel 7180 in sheet, strip, and plate form. This high-strength, corrosion-resistant material is vital for aerospace applications that demand exceptional durability and performance at high temperatures.
• AMS 4911: Covers titanium alloy Ti 6-4 (Grade 5) sheet, strip, and plate, ensuring high strength and reliability in aerospace components, particularly where weight savings are crucial.
• AMS 5542: Provides specifications for stainless steel alloy 304 in sheet, strip, and plate form, a material known for its corrosion resistance and versatility in various aerospace components.

By adhering to these specific AMS standards, manufacturers can ensure their products meet the stringent demands of aerospace applications, fostering innovation and maintaining global competitiveness.

SAE International (Society of Automotive Engineers)

Origins and Overview

SAE International was established in 1905 to support automotive engineers, and has since expanded to cover aerospace and other engineering disciplines. One of SAE’s critical contributions is the Unified Numbering System (UNS) for metals and alloys, developed with ASTM.

Contributions to Manufacturing

The UNS provides a systematic way of identifying metals and alloys based on their chemical compositions. This system is essential for ensuring material consistency and traceability in manufacturing processes. Key SAE standards include:

• SAE J1086: Defines the UNS system, ensuring clear and consistent identification of metals and alloys.
• SAE J403: Specifies chemical compositions of SAE carbon steels.
• SAE J404: Details chemical compositions of SAE alloy steels.

By standardizing material identification, SAE helps manufacturers ensure the correct materials are used, reducing errors and improving product reliability.

ISO (International Organization for Standardization)

Origins and Overview

The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) was founded in 1947, following the end of World War II, with the aim of facilitating international trade by creating common standards. ISO is an independent, non-governmental organization that develops and publishes standards across various industries.

Contributions to Manufacturing

ISO standards relevant to precision metalforming include those related to quality management, environmental management, and specific material standards. Key standards include:

• ISO 9001: Ensures quality management systems are in place, improving product consistency and customer satisfaction.
• ISO 14001: Helps companies implement effective environmental management systems, reducing their ecological footprint.
• ISO 6892: Standardizes tensile testing of metallic materials, ensuring reliable measurement of material properties.

Adhering to ISO standards helps manufacturers enhance quality, improve efficiency, and meet international regulatory requirements, facilitating global trade and collaboration.

NACE International (The Corrosion Society)

Origins and Overview

NACE International was founded in 1943 by a group of corrosion engineers from the pipeline industry. Originally named the National Association of Corrosion Engineers, it aimed to address the growing problem of pipeline corrosion.

Contributions to Manufacturing

NACE standards are essential for controlling and preventing corrosion in high-performance alloys, which is crucial for ensuring product longevity and reliability. Key standards include:

• NACE MR0175/ISO 15156: Defines materials for use in H2S-containing environments in oil and gas production.
• NACE SP0290: Provides guidelines for the design, installation, operation, and maintenance of impressed current deep groundbeds.
• NACE SP0169: Covers control of external corrosion on underground or submerged metallic piping systems.

By adhering to NACE standards, manufacturers can mitigate corrosion-related issues, extending product life and reducing maintenance costs.

DIN (Deutsches Institut für Normung)

Origins and Overview

DIN (Deutsches Institut für Normung) is the German Institute for Standardization, founded in 1917. DIN develops standards for a wide range of industries, including metals, to ensure quality, safety, and interoperability.

Contributions to Manufacturing

DIN standards are crucial for companies involved in precision metalforming, particularly in the European market. They cover materials like stainless steel and special metal strip coil and fine wire used in medical braid wire. Key standards include:

• DIN EN 10204: Specifies types of inspection documents for metallic products, ensuring quality control and traceability.
• DIN 17456: Covers stainless steel strips, ensuring consistent quality and performance.
• DIN 17860: Defines standards for titanium and titanium alloys used in precision applications.

By following DIN standards, manufacturers can ensure their products meet high-quality benchmarks and regulatory requirements, facilitating trade within Europe and beyond.

PMA (Precision Metalforming Association)

Origins and Overview

The Precision Metalforming Association (PMA) represents the metalforming industry, including companies involved in precision metal stamping and progressive stamping. Established in 1913, PMA aims to advance the industry through education, innovation, and advocacy.

Contributions to Manufacturing

The PMA provides resources that are critical for companies striving to achieve high precision and efficiency in metal stamping processes, such as:

• Technical Seminars: Training on the latest technologies and best practices in metalforming.
• Industry Standards: Guidelines for manufacturing processes and quality control.
• Advocacy: Representation of industry interests in policy discussions and regulatory matters.
• Regional Presence: The PMA not only operates on a national level but on a regional level too, offering opportunities for local networking and hosts regional educational events from key suppliers to the metal forming industry.

By offering these resources and advocating for favorable policies, PMA helps companies improve their processes, stay competitive, and navigate regulatory challenges.

SSINA (Specialty Steel Industry of North America)

Origins and Overview

The Specialty Steel Industry of North America (SSINA) was established to support and promote the specialty steel industry, including stainless steel and other high-performance alloys. It serves as a collective voice for the industry, advocating for favorable policies and providing valuable technical information.

Contributions to Manufacturing

SSINA offers critical resources for companies involved in precision metalforming, such as:

• Technical Data Sheets: These provide detailed properties and applications of specialty steels, helping manufacturers choose the right materials for their products.
• Industry Reports: Analysis of market trends and forecasts informs strategic decision-making.
• Educational Resources: Guidelines and best practices for manufacturing and processing specialty steels ensure high quality and efficiency.

By advocating for the specialty steel industry and providing comprehensive technical resources, SSINA helps manufacturers stay competitive and innovative.

ASM International (American Society for Metals)

Origins and Overview

ASM International was established in 1913 as the American Society for Steel Treating, later becoming the American Society for Metals. It was formed to share knowledge and advancements in metal treatment and metallurgy, promoting technical collaboration and education.

Contributions to Manufacturing

ASM International supports the precision metalforming industry through extensive resources, including:

• ASM Handbook Series: A vital reference providing detailed information on properties, processing, and applications of metals.
• Materials Information Society: A vast database offering material properties and technical data critical for decision-making in manufacturing.
• Professional Development Courses: These courses cover various topics, such as alloy selection, heat treatment, and failure analysis, ensuring professionals stay updated with the latest techniques.

ASM's resources and training programs empower professionals with the knowledge to optimize metalforming processes, innovate, and maintain high standards of product quality.

Conclusion

Understanding and adhering to the standards set by these organizations is crucial for maintaining quality and competitiveness in the precision metalforming industry. By leveraging the resources and guidelines provided by ASTM, ASM, AMS, SSINA, ISO, SAE, NACE, DIN, and PMA, companies can ensure their processes and products meet the highest standards of excellence. Staying informed about these standards not only enhances product quality but also fosters innovation and growth within the industry.

Standards designating mechanical and chemical properties are a good base line to begin with when developing your requirements/specifications. There are times a part or component requires different or tighter parameters than these standards. In those cases, Ulbrich’s engineering and product management groups are here to assist with developing those enhanced specifications to help ensure a customer’s ability to produce a part successfully.

From the very beginning, customers have used Ulbrich material in very exacting, and difficult applications, applications in which the cost of failure would be high and the consequences of failure, catastrophic. Our organization, including our engineers and staff have been certified and operate in accordance with many of these standards such as AMS, ASTM, NADCAP, and often even more demanding customer specifications. All Ulbrich Divisions have a corporate mandate to meet international quality standards, as well as the specific quality standards of key multinational manufacturers (OEM’s) and of the regions and industries they serve. We pride ourselves in rigorously testing our products to be sure they uphold the highest level of quality demanded by our customer’s market requirements. Partner with us for your next precision metalforming project.