Standard Test Methods for Thickness of Diffusion Coating

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
3.1 A diffusion coating is one produced by causing an element or elements to react with or diffuse into, or both, the surface of a metallic substrate, thus chemically altering the substrate adjacent to the surface. To appreciate the significance of coating thickness measurements one must understand the contributions to a particular coating of solid-solution zones in the substrate and reaction products such as intermetallic compounds.
SCOPE
1.1 These test methods cover two procedures for measuring the thickness of diffusion coatings.  
1.2 Test Method A is the determination of the dimensional-change thickness, defined as the difference in the thickness of the part before and after coating. (The terms micrometer thickness and part growth are considered synonymous with dimensional change thickness.)  
1.3 Test Method B is the determination of total coating thickness, defined as the distance between the observably unaffected substrate and the exterior surface of the coating. This includes the total of all included phases, zones and layers. (The term case depth is considered to be synonymous with total coating thickness.) The total coating thickness is determined by cross-sectioning the coating, preparing a metallurgical mount and microscopically measuring the coating thickness.  
1.4 The total coating thickness as determined microscopically from a cross-section will usually be greater than, or equal to, the dimensional change thickness determined by part growth. When the coating is produced primarily by reaction with the substrate, the substrate-coating interface recedes as the substrate is consumed in the reaction. In such cases the difference between the total coating thickness and the dimensional change thickness is the thickness of the substrate consumed.  
1.5 Diffusion coatings are usually formed at elevated temperatures for service at elevated temperatures. This means that diffusion coatings are dynamic systems which are continually undergoing changes while in an elevated-temperature environment. It is necessary to know that certain phases are growing at the expense of others and to know the previous history of a coating to understand the significance of coating thickness data.  
1.6 Values in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. Inch-pound units are provided for information only.  
1.7 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.  
1.8 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.

General Information

Status
Published
Publication Date
31-Oct-2020

Relations

Effective Date
01-Jul-2007
Effective Date
01-Jul-2007
Effective Date
10-Apr-2001
Effective Date
10-Apr-2001
Effective Date
10-Mar-1999
Effective Date
10-Mar-1999

Overview

ASTM C664-10(2020): Standard Test Methods for Thickness of Diffusion Coating provides essential guidelines for accurately measuring the thickness of diffusion coatings on metallic substrates. Developed by ASTM International, this standard defines two principal methods for evaluating diffusion coatings, which are commonly used for enhancing resistance to oxidation, corrosion, and erosion in demanding industrial environments. The standard supports industries relying on high-performance coatings for critical components, such as those used in gas turbines, power generation, and automotive applications.

Key Topics

  • Diffusion Coating Definition: A diffusion coating is created by causing elements to react with or diffuse into the surface of a metal substrate, resulting in chemical changes near the surface, including formation of solid-solution zones and intermetallic compounds.
  • Test Method A - Dimensional Change Thickness:
    • This method measures the difference in thickness of a part before and after the coating process.
    • It is also called micrometer thickness or part growth and is determined using a precise micrometer instrument.
  • Test Method B - Total Coating Thickness:
    • This approach measures the complete thickness of the coating from the unaffected substrate to the exterior surface, encompassing all layers and phases.
    • It involves cross-sectioning, preparing a metallurgical mount, and microscopic measurement, often referred to as case depth.
  • Dynamic Nature of Coatings: Diffusion coatings are dynamic, especially at elevated temperatures, continually undergoing phase changes and structural evolution during service.
  • Reporting Requirements: Results must include measurements (maximum, minimum, and average), method used, location of measurements, coating condition, and etching procedures.

Applications

ASTM C664-10(2020) is widely used in industries where diffusion coatings provide essential protection against harsh operating conditions. Key applications include:

  • Gas Turbine Components: Used to protect blades and vanes from high-temperature oxidation and corrosion for extended service life.
  • Power Generation Equipment: Supports the durability of high-performance parts exposed to elevated temperatures.
  • Automotive and Diesel Engine Parts: Provides wear and oxidation resistance to engine components.
  • Aerospace: Ensures the reliability of aircraft parts exposed to extreme heat and stress.
  • Metallurgical Quality Control: Allows manufacturers and laboratories to verify coating integrity, optimize process parameters, and meet customer or regulatory requirements.

Accurate thickness measurement is critical for ensuring that coatings deliver their intended protective functions and that components meet stringent quality specifications.

Related Standards

Several additional ASTM standards are referenced and complement ASTM C664-10(2020):

  • ASTM D374: Test Methods for Thickness of Solid Electrical Insulation.
  • ASTM E3: Guide for Preparation of Metallographic Specimens.

These documents provide further guidance for specimen preparation and measurement techniques in metallurgical and coating applications. Organizations seeking comprehensive best practices for diffusion coating measurement should consult these related standards.

Practical Value

By establishing reliable methods for measuring diffusion coating thickness, ASTM C664-10(2020):

  • Helps manufacturers ensure product quality and performance consistency.
  • Facilitates regulatory compliance and customer satisfaction.
  • Enhances component longevity in high-temperature and corrosive environments.
  • Supports process optimization and root-cause analysis for coating failures.

Implementing this standard is essential for metallurgical laboratories, coating facilities, and quality control teams seeking precise, repeatable results in diffusion coating evaluation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

ASTM C664-10(2020) is a standard published by ASTM International. Its full title is "Standard Test Methods for Thickness of Diffusion Coating". This standard covers: SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 3.1 A diffusion coating is one produced by causing an element or elements to react with or diffuse into, or both, the surface of a metallic substrate, thus chemically altering the substrate adjacent to the surface. To appreciate the significance of coating thickness measurements one must understand the contributions to a particular coating of solid-solution zones in the substrate and reaction products such as intermetallic compounds. SCOPE 1.1 These test methods cover two procedures for measuring the thickness of diffusion coatings. 1.2 Test Method A is the determination of the dimensional-change thickness, defined as the difference in the thickness of the part before and after coating. (The terms micrometer thickness and part growth are considered synonymous with dimensional change thickness.) 1.3 Test Method B is the determination of total coating thickness, defined as the distance between the observably unaffected substrate and the exterior surface of the coating. This includes the total of all included phases, zones and layers. (The term case depth is considered to be synonymous with total coating thickness.) The total coating thickness is determined by cross-sectioning the coating, preparing a metallurgical mount and microscopically measuring the coating thickness. 1.4 The total coating thickness as determined microscopically from a cross-section will usually be greater than, or equal to, the dimensional change thickness determined by part growth. When the coating is produced primarily by reaction with the substrate, the substrate-coating interface recedes as the substrate is consumed in the reaction. In such cases the difference between the total coating thickness and the dimensional change thickness is the thickness of the substrate consumed. 1.5 Diffusion coatings are usually formed at elevated temperatures for service at elevated temperatures. This means that diffusion coatings are dynamic systems which are continually undergoing changes while in an elevated-temperature environment. It is necessary to know that certain phases are growing at the expense of others and to know the previous history of a coating to understand the significance of coating thickness data. 1.6 Values in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. Inch-pound units are provided for information only. 1.7 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. 1.8 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.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 3.1 A diffusion coating is one produced by causing an element or elements to react with or diffuse into, or both, the surface of a metallic substrate, thus chemically altering the substrate adjacent to the surface. To appreciate the significance of coating thickness measurements one must understand the contributions to a particular coating of solid-solution zones in the substrate and reaction products such as intermetallic compounds. SCOPE 1.1 These test methods cover two procedures for measuring the thickness of diffusion coatings. 1.2 Test Method A is the determination of the dimensional-change thickness, defined as the difference in the thickness of the part before and after coating. (The terms micrometer thickness and part growth are considered synonymous with dimensional change thickness.) 1.3 Test Method B is the determination of total coating thickness, defined as the distance between the observably unaffected substrate and the exterior surface of the coating. This includes the total of all included phases, zones and layers. (The term case depth is considered to be synonymous with total coating thickness.) The total coating thickness is determined by cross-sectioning the coating, preparing a metallurgical mount and microscopically measuring the coating thickness. 1.4 The total coating thickness as determined microscopically from a cross-section will usually be greater than, or equal to, the dimensional change thickness determined by part growth. When the coating is produced primarily by reaction with the substrate, the substrate-coating interface recedes as the substrate is consumed in the reaction. In such cases the difference between the total coating thickness and the dimensional change thickness is the thickness of the substrate consumed. 1.5 Diffusion coatings are usually formed at elevated temperatures for service at elevated temperatures. This means that diffusion coatings are dynamic systems which are continually undergoing changes while in an elevated-temperature environment. It is necessary to know that certain phases are growing at the expense of others and to know the previous history of a coating to understand the significance of coating thickness data. 1.6 Values in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. Inch-pound units are provided for information only. 1.7 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. 1.8 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.

ASTM C664-10(2020) is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 17.040.20 - Properties of surfaces. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.

ASTM C664-10(2020) has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to ASTM E3-01(2007)e1, ASTM E3-01(2007), ASTM E3-01, ASTM E3-95, ASTM D374-99(2004), ASTM D374-99. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.

ASTM C664-10(2020) is available in PDF format for immediate download after purchase. The document can be added to your cart and obtained through the secure checkout process. Digital delivery ensures instant access to the complete standard document.

Standards Content (Sample)


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.
Designation: C664 − 10 (Reapproved 2020)
Standard Test Methods for
Thickness of Diffusion Coating
This standard is issued under the fixed designation C664; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision.Anumber in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval.A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
INTRODUCTION
Diffusion coating is a thermally activated means of protecting certain iron, nickel, and cobalt based
alloys against severe operating conditions. It creates a chemically bonded, tenacious coating that acts
as a diffusion barrier against oxygen and other elements into the substrate to provide superior
oxidation, corrosion and erosion resistance up to 2100°F (1150°C). It is commonly used for gas
turbine components, power generation components, and diesel engines. This test procedure provides
a mean of determining the thickness of a diffusion coating.
1. Scope diffusion coatings are dynamic systems which are continually
undergoing changes while in an elevated-temperature environ-
1.1 These test methods cover two procedures for measuring
ment.Itisnecessarytoknowthatcertainphasesaregrowingat
the thickness of diffusion coatings.
the expense of others and to know the previous history of a
1.2 Test MethodAis the determination of the dimensional-
coating to understand the significance of coating thickness
change thickness, defined as the difference in the thickness of
data.
the part before and after coating. (The terms micrometer
1.6 Values in SI units are to be regarded as the standard.
thickness and part growth are considered synonymous with
Inch-pound units are provided for information only.
dimensional change thickness.)
1.7 This standard does not purport to address all of the
1.3 Test Method B is the determination of total coating
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
thickness, defined as the distance between the observably
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
unaffected substrate and the exterior surface of the coating.
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
This includes the total of all included phases, zones and layers.
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
(Thetermcasedepthisconsideredtobesynonymouswithtotal
1.8 This international standard was developed in accor-
coatingthickness.)Thetotalcoatingthicknessisdeterminedby
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
cross-sectioning the coating, preparing a metallurgical mount
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
and microscopically measuring the coating thickness.
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
1.4 The total coating thickness as determined microscopi-
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
callyfromacross-sectionwillusuallybegreaterthan,orequal
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
to, the dimensional change thickness determined by part
2. Referenced Documents
growth. When the coating is produced primarily by reaction
withthesubstrate,thesubstrate-coatinginterfacerecedesasthe
2.1 ASTM Standards:
substrate is consumed in the reaction. In such cases the
D374Test Methods for Thickness of Solid Electrical Insu-
difference between the total coating thickness and the dimen-
lation (Metric) D0374_D0374M
sional change thickness is the thickness of the substrate
E3Guide for Preparation of Metallographic Specimens
consumed.
3. Significance and Use
1.5 Diffusion coatings are usually formed at elevated tem-
3.1 A diffusion coating is one produced by causing an
peratures for service at elevated temperatures. This means that
element or elements to react with or diffuse into, or both, the
surface of a metallic substrate, thus chemically altering the
These test methods are under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee B08 on
Metallic and Inorganic Coatingsand are the direct responsibility of Subcommittee
B08.12 on Materials for Porcelain Enamel and Ceramic-Metal Systems. For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Current edition approved Nov. 1, 2020. Published December 2020. Originally contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
approvedin1970.Lastpreviouseditionapprovedin2015asC664–10(2015).DOI: Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
10.1520/C0664-10R20. the ASTM website.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
C664 − 10 (2020)
substrate adjacent to the surface.To appreciate the significance 5.2.3 UsethestandardtechniquesdetailedinPracticeE3for
of coating thickness measurements one must understand the mounting and polishing of the metallurgical specimen.
contributions to a particular coating of solid-solution zones in 5.2.4 The etching procedure, if required, shall be in general
the substrate and reaction products such as intermetallic accordance with Practice E3. The specific etchant and etch
compounds. time, if employed, will be by mutual agreement between the
customer and vendor. The etching procedure will clearly
4. Test Method A
demark the boundaries of the coating as well as properly
differentiate included zones, if it is desirable to measure their
4.1 Apparatus—The instrument shall be a machinist’s type
thickness as well.
micrometer without a locking device. If calibrated in inches, it
5.2.5 Measure the total coating thickness microscopically
shall be constructed with a vernier reading to 0.0001in.
with the
...

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