BRITISH STANDARD Steels — Determination of depth of decarburization ‘The Buropean Standard EN ISO 8887:2003 has the status of a British Standard res 7.040.99 NO COPYING WITHOUT BSI PERMISSION EXCEPT AS PERMITTED BY COPYRIGHT LAW ad BS EN ISO 3887:2003 Incorporating Corrigendum No. 1 =Sace 5 British Standards‘This British Standard was published under the authority of the Standards Policy and Strategy Committee on 17 April 2003) © BST 1 August 2008, ISBN 0 580 416267 National foreword ‘This British Standard is the official English language version of EN ISO 88872003. It is identical with ISO 3887:2003. It supersedes BS 6617-1:1985 and BS 6617-2:1987 which are withdrawn, ‘The UK participation in its preparation was entrusted to Technical Committee ISE/72, Methods of physical and metallographic testing, which has the responsibility to: — aid enquirers to understand the text; — present to the responsible international/European committee any enquiries on the interpretation, or proposals for change, and keep the UK interests informed; — monitor related international and European developments and promulgate them in the UK. A list of organizations represented on this committee can be obtained on. request to its secretary. Cross-references ‘The British Standards which implement international or European. publications referred to in this document may be found in the BST Catalogue under the section entitled “International Standards Correspondence Index", or by using the “Search” facility of the BSI Electronic Catalogue or of British Standards Online ‘This publication does not purport to include all the necessary provisions of a contract. Users are responsible for its correct application. Compliance with a British Standard does not of itself confer immunity from legal obligations. Summary of pages This document comprises a front cover, an inside front cover, the EN ISO title page, the EN ISO foreword page, the ISO title page, pages ii and iii, a blank page, pages 1 to 8, the Annex ZA page and a back cover. ‘The BSI copyright date displayed in this document indicates when the document was last issued. Amendments issued since publication ‘Amd. No. Date [Comments 14610 ‘1 August 2003 [Replacing the EN ISO foreword page and Corrigendum No. 1 lincorporating the Annex ZA pageEUROPEAN STANDARD EN ISO 3887 NORME EUROPEENNE EUROPAISCHE NORM March 2003 Ics 77,040.99 English version Steels - Determination of depth of decarburization (ISO ‘Acie - Determination de a proforsour ce Uécarburation ‘Staht- Bestimmung dor Entkohlungstiofe (ISO 2887:2003) (80 3887:2003) This European Standard was approved by CEN on 17 January 2008. CEN members are bound to comply withthe CENCENELEC Internal Regulations which stipulate the conditions for giving this European Standard the status of @ national standard without ay alteration. Up-to-date lists and bbiographical references concerning such national Standards may be obtained on application to the Management Centre or to any CEN member. “This European Standard exists in thee offal versions (English, French, German). A version in en other language made by translation Under the responsibilty of CEN member int iis own language and noiied to the Management Centre has the same status asthe official CEN members are the national standards bodies of Austia, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ieeland, reiand, tay, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Slovak Republic, Spain, Sweden, Switzeiand and United Kingdom, aa! EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR STANDARDIZATION COMITE EUROPEEN DE NORMALISATION EUROPAISCHES KOMITEE FOR NORMUNG ‘Management Centre: rue de Stassart, 368-1050 Brussels ©2003 CEN All rights of exootaton in any form and by any moans reserved Rat, No. EN 180 3887:2003 & ‘worldwide for CEN national Members.EN ISO 3887:2003 CORRECTED 2003-07-16 | Foreword This document (EN ISO 3887:2003) has been prepared by Technical Committee ISO/TC 17 "Stee!" in collaboration with Technical Committee ECISS/TC 2 "Steel - Physico-chemical and non-destructive testing, the secretariat of which is held by AFNOR. This European Standard shall be given the status of a national standard, either by publication of an identical text or by endorsement, at the latest by September 2003, and conflicting national standards shall be withdrawn at the latest by September. ‘According to the CEN/GENELEC Internal Regulations, the national standards organizations of the following countries are bound to implement this European Standard: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the United Kingdom. Endorsement notice The text of ISO 3887:2003 has been approved by CEN as EN ISO 3887:2003 without any modifications. NOTE Normative references to International Standards are listed in Annex ZA (normative).EN ISO 3887:2003 INTERNATIONAL Iso STANDARD 3887 ‘Second edition 2003-03-01 Steels — Determination of depth of decarburization Aciers — Détermination de la profondeur de décarburation Reference number 180 3887:2003(E)EN ISO 3887:2003EN ISO 3887:2003 Foreword 180 (the International Organization for Standardization) is a worldwide federation of national standards bodies (ISO member bodies). The work of preparing Intemational Standards is normally carried out through ISO technical committees. Each member body interested in a subject for which a technical committee has been established has the right to be represented on that committee. International organizations, governmental and non-governmental, in liaison with ISO, also take part in the work. ISO collaborates closely with the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) on all matters of electrotechnical standardization. International Standards are drafted in accordance with the rules given in the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2 ‘The main task of technical committees is to prepare International Standards. Draft Intemational Standards adopted by the technical committees are circulated to the member bodies for voting. Publication as an International Standard requires approval by at least 75 % of the member bodies casting a vote, ‘Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of patent rights. ISO shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights 1SO 3887 was prepared by Technical Committee ISO/TC 17, Steel, Subcommittee SC 7, Methods of testing (other than mechanical tests and chemical analysis). This second edition cancels and replaces the first edition (ISO 3887:1976), which has been technically revised. iitEN ISO 3887:2003 Steels — Determination of depth of decarburization 1 Scope This International Standard defines decarburization and specifies three methods of measuring the depth of decarburization of non-alloy and low-alloy steels, 2 Normative references The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies. 1SO 4545, Metallic materials — Hardness test — Knoop test ISO 6507-1, Metallic materials — Vickers hardness test — Part 1: Test method 180 9556, Stee! and iron— Determination of total carbon content — Infrared absorption method after combustion in an induction furnace ISO 15349-2, Unalloyed ste! — Determination of low carbon content — Part 2: Infrared absorption method after combustion in an induction fumace (with preheating) 3. Terms and definitions For the purposes of this document, the following terms and definitions apply. 34 decarburization loss of carbon from the surface zone of the steel where the loss is: a) either partial decarburization, ds; b) or complete decarburization, d;, measured as the distance between the surface of the product and the point at which carbon is detectable NOTE The depth of complete decarburization as described in b) is determined by examination of the microstructure, 3.2 depth of functional decarburization 4 distance between the surface of the product and the point at which the carbon content or hardness is at the level where the performance of the product would be unaffected by a reduction in carbon (i.e., at the minimum level specified in the product standard)EN ISO 3887:2003 33 depth of total decarburization dy distance between the surface of the product and the point at which the carbon content is that of the unaffected core, the sum of the partial and the complete decarburization da + d; being designated by the letters DD and expressed in millimetres, e.g., DD = 0,08 mm NOTE The various bands of decarburization are shown diagrammatically in Figure 1. The boundaries soparating tho various types of decarburization are shown as hatched bands with the width of the band illustrating the practical variability in measurements due to uncertainty of interpretation. 34 depth of ferrite decarburization depth of complete decarburization in the surface layer, NOTE The depth of ferite decarburizalion is determined by examination of the microstructure,EN ISO 3887:2003 / WA Increasing carbon content be Distance from surface > Minimum carbon content specified in the product standard Core carbon content If the product has undergone a process involving carburization, the definition of the “core” shall form the subject of an agreement between the parties concerned. ‘The permissible depth of decarburization shall be specified in the appropriate standard covering the product or shall be the ‘subject of an agreement between the parties concemed, Figure 1 — Carbon content as a function of distance from the surface: schematic representation for a typical decarburized steelIN ISO 3887:2003 4 Measuring methods 4.1 General The choice of the method and its accuracy depend on the degree of decarburization, the ‘carbon content of the product examined and the shape of the component, rostructure, the The usual methods employed on finished products are: —_ amicrographic method (see 4.2); — a method for measuring the microindentation hardness (Vickers or Knoop) for steels in the hardened or ‘quenched and tempered condition (see 4.3); — a method for the determination of the carbon content by chemical or spectrographic analysis (suv 4.4). The inclusion of several methods of measurement, each having its own sphere of application, avoids the necessity for further heat treatment. The sample shall be examined in the condition of delivery. Nevertheless if, by agreement between the parties concemed, a supplementary heat treatment is applied, every precaution shall be taken to prevent changes in mass percentage andior in the distribution of carbon, i¢., a small sample, a short austenitization time, a neutral atmosphere In the absence of an indication of the choice of method in the product standard, this shall form the subject of an agreement between the parties concerned 4.2. Micrographic method 4.24 General Unless otherwise specified, this method shall only be applied in situations where changes in carbon content are reflected by resulting variations in microstructure. This method is especially valid for steels showing an annealed or normalized (ferrite-pearlite) structure. It may apply, with reservations, for products showing a hardened, or tempered, or as-rolled, or forged structure where the interpretation of the structural variations becomes difficult 4.2.2 Selection and preparation of the sample The sample selected shall consist of a section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the product. For products with no longitudinal axis, selection of the sample shall form the subject of an agreement between the parties concerned, Wherever possible, small samples (section area less than 4 cm?) shall be examined over their entire periphery. If this is impractical, e.g. for large samples, several sections shall be taken in order to ensure that the sampling is representative. The number and the relative positions of the various samples shall be specified by agreement between the parties concerned. ‘The micrographic polishing, carried out by applying the usual methods, shall not round the edges. In order to achieve this, the sample may be mounted or held in a clamp, and the surface of the product may, if necessary, be protected by a metallic deposit obtained by electroless or electrolytic plating. Automaticisemi-automatic preparation techniques are recommended, where possible. Etching in a solution of 1,5 % to 4 % nitric acid in ethanol (nital) or 2 % to 5 % picral will reveal the structure of the steelEN ISO 3887:2003 4.2.3. Measurement proper {As a rule, the reduction in carbon content can be determined for: a) ferrite and pearite: from the decrease in the amount of pearite: b) pearlte and carbides developing hypereutectoidally: from the decrease in the amount of carbides developing hypereutectoidally and/or of pearite; c) ferrite matrix with dispersed carbides: from the decrease in the amount of carbides in the ferrite matrix. Hardened or quenched and tempered microstructures can be assessed by this method if the change in carbon ccontent leads to clear changes in the microstructure. This method can also be applied for other structural conditions, e.g., for hardened or quenched and tempered microstructures, but only if a distinct boundary exists within the structure characteristic, which is decisive for the depth of decarburization. The distance from the surface to the point at which the structure does not differ from that of the core shall be measured (total decarburization). The measurement shall be conducted using suitably calibrated equipment The choice of magnification depends on the depth of decarburization and shall be chosen by the assessor unless specifically agreed upon between the parties. It is recommended that the maximum magnification that allows the full extent of decarburization to be viewed is adopted. A magnification of x 100 is recommended as ‘a useful magnification for the majority of instances. A preliminary examination of the whole surface at low magnification ensures that any great variation in the depth of decarburization along the periphery will be observed for further evaluation The point of the maximum depth of decarburization, uninfluenced by surface defects and comer effects, is determined by preliminary examination of the surface of the section, Beginning at this point, the first measurement point, the surface is divided into parts of equal size, at the ends of which the depth of decarburization shail also be measured. Unless agreed otherwise, four individual measured values shall be determined. The depth of total decarburization of the sample (see 3.3) is defined as the average of these measurements. Measuring points that are affected by surface defects shall not be taken into account when determining the average. 4.3. Methods for measuring the microindentation hardness 434 General The methods under consideration are that of Vickers, in accordance with ISO 6507-1, and of Knoop, in accordance with ISO 4545, Each method consists of determining the gradient of the microindentation hardness on a cross-section of the product along a line perpendicular to the surface. This technique applies only to hypoeutectoid steels in the hardened, tempered or heat-treated condition, and to decarburized zones that are within a hardened zone, in order to avoid the occurrence of variations in hardness due to imperfect penetration. The technique becomes inaccurate for low-carbon steels. 4.3.2 Selection and preparation of the sample The selection and preparation of the sample shall be identical to that used in the micrographic method (see 4.2.2) although, in general, the sample shall not be etched, in order to facilitate the measurement of the size of the impression. Precautions shall be taken to avoid overheating the sample.EN ISO 3887:2003 43.3. Measurement proper The load shall be as high as possible, in order to minimize the scatter of the measurements. In principle, this load shall be in the range of HV 0,1 to HV 2,5 or in an appropriate range for the Knoop test. The distance between impressions shall be at least 2,5 times the length of the diagonal of the impression. The depth of total decarburization is defined by the distance from the surface to the point at which the core hardness is attained. Atleast two series of measurements shall be carried out in locations as remote as possible from each other. ‘The average of the two depth measurements defines the depth of the total decarburization (see 3.3), 4.4 Methods of determination of carbon content 444° General The methods consist of determining the gradient of the carbon content in a direction perpendicular to the surface. They are applicable whatever the structure of the stee! 44.2. Chemical analysis 4421 General This applies only to products with a simple geometry (round base cylinder or plain faced polyhedron) and of a size consistent with machining facilities, and when decarburization is over the complete surface. Unless otherwise agreed this method does not apply to products with partial decarburization, 4.4.2.2 Selection of samples and test ‘Successive layers 0,1 mm thick, parallel to the surface of the piece, shall be removed by dry machining, avoiding all contamination. Any oxide films shall be removed beforehand, The metal collected at each level shall be submitted for carbon determination by chemical means, in accordance with ISO 9556 and ISO 15349-2. 4.4.3 Spectrographic analysis 4.4.3.1 General This applies only to products with flat faces of adequate size. 44.3.2 — Selection of samples and test The flat sample shall be subjected to successive grinding operations to different levels 0,1 mm apart Spectrographic determination of the carbon shall be carried out at each level in such a way that successive sparkings are not superimposed. 4.4.4 Interpretation of the results (chemical and spectrographic methods) The methods described in 4.4.2 (chemical analysis) and 4.4.3 (spectrographic analysis) permit the determination of the depth of functional decarburization, by measuring the distance from the surface to the point where the carbon content reaches the minimum specified value. Alternatively, the depth of total decarburization can be determined by measuring the distance from the surface to the point where the carbon content values become consistent, .., the core carbon content.EN ISO 3887:2003 5 Test report The test report shall contain the following information a) the number and the location of the samples taken from the test piece; b) the method used; c) all measured values, averaged values such as DD and, if given, the thickness of a ferritic layer as complete decarburization.EN ISO 3887:2003 Bibliography [1] 180437, Stee! and cast iron— Determination of total carbon content — Combustion gravimetric methodEN ISO 3887:2003 Annex ZA (normative) Normative references to international publications with their relevant European publications This European Standard incorporates by dated or undated reference, provisions from other publications. These normative references are cited at the appropriate places in the text and the publications are listed hereafter. For dated references, subsequent amendments to or revisions of any of these publications apply to this European Standard only when incorporated in it by ‘amendment or revision. For undated references the latest edition of the publication referred to applies (including amendments). NOTE Where an International Publication has been modified by common modifications, indicated by (mod), the relevant EN/HD applies. Publication Year Title EN Year 1S0 6507-1 1997 Metallic materials — Vickers hardness EN ISO 6507-1 1997 test — Part 1: Test method 109556 1989 Steel and iron — Determination of total EN ISO 9556 2001 carbon content — Infrared absorption method after combustion in an induction furnace ISO 15349-21999 —_Unalloyed steel - Determination of low EN ISO 15349-22003 carbon content - Part 2: Infrared absorption method after combustion in {an induction furnace (with preheating)BS EN ISO 3887:2003 BSI 389 Chiswick High Road London, Wa 4AL BSI — British Standards Institution BSI is the independent national body responsible for preparing British Standards. It presents the UK view on standards in Europe and at the international level. It is incorporated by Royal Charter. Revisions British Standards are updated by amendment or revision. Users of British Standards should make sure that they possess the latest amendments or editions. Itis the constant aim of BSI to improve the quality of our products and services. ‘We would be grateful if anyone finding an inaccuracy or ambiguity while using this British Standard would inform the Secretary of the technical committee responsible, the identity of which can be found on the inside front cover. Tel: +44 (0)20 8996 9000. Fax: +44 (0)20 8996 7400. BSI offers members an individual updating service called PLUS which ensures that subscribers antamatically receive the latest editions of standards. Buying standards Orders for all BSI, international and foreign standards publications should be addressed to Customer Services. Tel: +44 (0)20 8996 9001. Fax: +44 (0)20 8996 7001. Email: orders@bsi-global.com. Standards are also available from the BSI website at http//www.bsi-global.com. In response to orders for international standards, it is BSI policy to supply the BSI implementation of those that have been published as British Standards, unless otherwise requested Information on standards BSI provides a wide range of information on national, European and international standards through its Library and its Technical Help to Exporters Service. Various BSI electronic information services are also available which give details on all its products and services. Contact the Information Centre. Tel: +44 (0)20 8996 7111. Fax: +44 (0)20 8996 7048. Email: info@bsi-global.com. Subscribing members of BSI are kept up to date with standards developments and receive substantial discounts on the purchase price of standards. For details of these and other benefits contact Membership Administration, ‘Tel: +44 (0)20 8996 7002. Fax: +44 (0)20 8996 7001. Email: membership@bsi-global.com. Information regarding online access to British Standards via British Standards Online ean be found at http://www.bsi-global.com/bsonline. Further information about BST is available on the BSI website at httn://www bsi-global.com. Copyright Copyright subsists in all BSI publications. BSI also holds the copyright, in the UK, of the publications of the international standardization bodies. Except as permitted under the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988 no extract may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means electronic, photocopying, recording or otherwise — without prior written permission from BSI. ‘This does not preclude the free use, in the course of implementing the standard, of necessary details such as symbols, and size, type or grade designations. If these details are to be used for any other purpose than implementation then the prior written permission of BSI must be obtained. Details and advice can be obtained from the Copyright & Licensing Manager. ‘Tel: +44 (0)20 8996 7070. Fax: +44 (0)20 8996 7553. Ennail: copyright@bsi-global.com.