ASTM A604/A604M-07

Macroetch testing, as described herein, is a method for examining and rating transverse sections of bars and billets to describe certain conditions of macro segregation which are often characteristic of consumable electrode remelted materials.

This practice is not intended to define major defects such as those described by Method E 381.

1.1 This practice covers testing and inspection and is applicable to bars, billets, and blooms of carbon, alloy, and stainless steel which have been consumable electrode remelted.

1.2 For the purpose of this practice, the consumable electrode remelting process is defined as a steel refining method wherein single or multiple electrodes are remelted into a crucible producing an ingot which is superior to the original electrode by virtue of improved cleanliness or lower gas content or reduced chemical or nonmetallic segregation. See and for descriptions of applicable remelting processes.

1.3 This practice and the accompanying comparison macrographs are generally applicable to steel bar and billet sizes up to 225 in.² [1450 cm²] in transverse cross section.

1.4 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard.

1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.