1. Scope

1.1. This test method covers procedures for carrying out Indentation Plastometry, an indentation-based test technique to determine the stress-strain properties of metallic materials. The test involves three steps: (1) creation of the indent, (2) measurement of the residual profile shape and (3) analysis of the profile shape using inverse finite element analysis. The test is used to determine the true stress-strain curve of the material. This subsequently allows the determination of yield strength and ultimate tensile strength which are directly comparable to the values obtained from conventional tensile testing.
1.2. The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.
1.3. 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.4. This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

Keywords

Plasticity; high throughput testing; qualification; inspection; measurement; mechanical properties; material properties

Rationale

The tensile test is the gold standard for determining the yield strength and ultimate tensile strength of metallic materials. The tensile test typically requires machining of a large test coupon and a universal mechanical test machine. These requirements mean that tensile testing can often be slow, large sample volumes are required, and it is very difficult to map spatially-varying properties across a part. In some cases, such as complex parts made by additive manufacturing, it can be difficult if not impossible to produce a sample where properties can be reliably measured using conventional tensile testing. This standard is therefore required to establish a standardised test method for applying indentation-based tests (coupled with inverse finite element analyses) to accurately determine tensile properties.
The test method can be used across the entire product life cycle, from R&D, into production for quality control, for products in service, and for failure analyses.
Typical users would be any person, any company, or any organisation that needs to determine the mechanical properties of metallic materials. These could include, but are not limited to, primary metal manufacturers, aerospace, automotive, defence, energy, and space sectors as well as testing service providers and academics.

The title and scope are in draft form and are under development within this ASTM Committee.