AS 2331.1.6-2004 PDF

Full title and description

AS 2331.1.6-2004 — Methods of test for metallic and related coatings, Method 1.6: Local thickness tests — Taper section method. Specifies a laboratory method for measuring the local thickness of metallic coatings on various substrates by micrographic examination of a taper cross‑section.

Abstract

This standard defines the taper‑section micrographic technique for determining local coating thickness. It covers preparation of a taper cross‑section from the coated specimen and the subsequent microscopic examination and measurement procedures needed to report local coating thicknesses reliably for quality control, acceptance testing and failure analysis.

General information

• Status: Current (reconfirmed by review activity in the AS 2331 series).
• Publication date: 28 April 2004.
• Publisher: Standards Australia.
• ICS / categories: 25.220.40 — Metallic coatings.
• Edition / version: 2nd edition (2004).
• Number of pages: 8 (official product listing).

Scope

Applies to the measurement of local thickness of metallic coatings on substrates by preparing a taper cross‑section and examining it microscopically. The method is intended for use where a local, micrographic thickness measurement is required (for example, to assess coating distribution across a cross‑section, interfaces, and localized defects) and forms part of the AS 2331 family of test methods for metallic and related coatings.

Key topics and requirements

• Specimen preparation: producing a representative taper cross‑section suitable for micrographic measurement.
• Mounting, grinding and polishing procedures to expose the taper section without damaging coating or substrate.
• Optical microscopy examination and measurement technique for local coating thickness along the taper.
• Reporting requirements: how to record local thickness measurements and relevant test conditions.
• Accuracy and traceability considerations for laboratory measurement and interpretation.

Typical use and users

Used by metallurgical and surface‑treatment laboratories, independent testing houses, quality and process control teams in plating and coating companies, materials engineers, failure‑analysis laboratories and research organisations requiring accurate local thickness data for metallic coatings.

Related standards

Part of the AS 2331 series of test methods for metallic and related coatings (see AS 2331.0 for method selection guidance and other AS 2331.1.x methods for micrographic cross‑section and local thickness tests). Related Australian and international documents addressing coating thickness, adhesion and corrosion testing are referenced in the AS 2331 series.

Keywords

local thickness; taper section; micrographic examination; coating thickness; metallic coatings; test method; Standards Australia; AS 2331.

FAQ

Q: What is this standard?

A: AS 2331.1.6-2004 is a Standards Australia test method titled "Local thickness tests — Taper section method" that specifies how to measure local thickness of metallic coatings using a taper cross‑section and microscopic examination.

Q: What does it cover?

A: It covers specimen tapering, preparation (mounting, grinding, polishing), optical microscopic examination of the taper cross‑section and measurement/reporting practices required to determine local coating thicknesses.

Q: Who typically uses it?

A: Materials and surface‑treatment laboratories, plating and coating manufacturers, quality control and inspection teams, and failure analysis or research groups that need accurate local thickness data for metallic coatings.

Q: Is it current or superseded?

A: The standard was published on 28 April 2004 (2nd edition) and is listed in vendor and standards catalogues as the current edition of AS 2331.1.6; the AS 2331 family has been subject to periodic reconfirmation reviews. Users should verify with Standards Australia or their national standards body for the absolute current status before relying on it for regulatory or procurement requirements.

Q: Is it part of a series?

A: Yes — it is one method within the AS 2331 series ("Methods of test for metallic and related coatings"), which includes guidance on method selection (AS 2331.0) and other specific test methods for thickness, adhesion and corrosion.

Q: What are the key keywords?

A: Local thickness, taper section, micrograph, coating thickness measurement, metallic coatings, AS 2331.