ASTM B914-21
(Practice)Standard Practice for Color Codes on Zinc and Zinc Alloy Ingot for Use in Hot-Dip Galvanizing of Steel
Standard Practice for Color Codes on Zinc and Zinc Alloy Ingot for Use in Hot-Dip Galvanizing of Steel
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 The purpose of these color codes is to allow for quick identification of ingot bundles or jumbo ingots of alloys used for hot-dip galvanizing. Other than jumbo ingots, this standard is not intended to imply that each ingot will be color-coded but only that each ingot bundle be color coded.
4.2 Each ingot bundle or jumbo ingot shall be identified with the appropriate color code listed in Table 1. (A) UNS assignations were established in accordance with Practice E527. The last digit of a UNS number differentiates between alloys of similar composition.(B) The North American system is designed to be a simplified version of the International system by eliminating the leading yellow stripe.(C) Color codes taken from European Standard EN 1179.(D) GALFAN is a registered trademark of the GALFAN Information Center, Inc.(E) GALVALUME is a registered trademark of BIEC International Inc., USA.
4.3 The color will be applied as a stripe, or stripes, on two adjacent sides of the ingot bundle or jumbo ingot. The color stripes will be applied to include the ingot bundle foot.
4.4 When using multiple stripes, the colored stripes will be applied from left to right as indicated in Table 1.
4.5 In the absence of a written agreement to the contrary between the supplier and end user, the North American color code will be the standard for all North American transactions; for all other transactions the International Color Code will be used.
SCOPE
1.1 This standard is published with the following objectives:
1.1.1 To establish standard color codes for zinc, zinc alloy and zinc master alloy ingot used by the Hot-Dip Galvanizing industry, and
1.1.2 To standardize the use and application of these color codes.
1.2 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 become familiar with all hazards including those identified in the appropriate Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for this product/material as provided by the manufacturer, to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices, and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.3 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-2021
- Technical Committee
- B02 - Nonferrous Metals and Alloys
- Drafting Committee
- B02.04 - Zinc and Cadmium
Relations
- Effective Date
- 01-Jun-2017
- Effective Date
- 01-Oct-2016
- Effective Date
- 01-May-2016
- Refers
ASTM B997-16 - Standard Specification for Zinc-Aluminum Alloys in Ingot Form for Hot-Dip Coatings - Effective Date
- 01-May-2016
- Effective Date
- 01-May-2016
- Effective Date
- 01-Oct-2015
- Effective Date
- 01-Oct-2015
- Refers
ASTM B997-15 - Standard Specification for Zinc-Aluminum Alloys in Ingot Form for Hot-Dip Coatings - Effective Date
- 01-Jun-2015
- Effective Date
- 01-Oct-2014
- Effective Date
- 01-Oct-2014
- Effective Date
- 01-Feb-2013
- Effective Date
- 01-Feb-2013
- Effective Date
- 01-Feb-2013
- Effective Date
- 01-May-2012
- Effective Date
- 01-May-2012
Overview
ASTM B914-21 is the Standard Practice for Color Codes on Zinc and Zinc Alloy Ingots for Use in Hot-Dip Galvanizing of Steel, published by ASTM International. This standard provides a unified system of color codes specifically for zinc, zinc alloy, and zinc master alloy ingots used within the hot-dip galvanizing industry. The intent is rapid, visual identification of ingot bundles or jumbo ingots, streamlining processes in storage, logistics, and production, while promoting safety and efficiency.
ASTM B914-21 details the use and application of standardized color stripes, referencing both North American and International (including European EN 1179) codes, to maintain compatibility and consistency across supply chains and markets.
Key Topics
Purpose and Scope:
- Establishes uniform color codes for ingots and alloy types for hot-dip galvanizing.
- Applies primarily to bundles and jumbo ingots, not individual small ingots.
Color Application:
- Color stripes are applied on two adjacent sides and include the ingot bundle foot.
- Multiple stripes, where required, are applied from left to right according to standard tables.
- North American and International color codes are specified, with the North American system generally omitting the leading yellow stripe present in International codes.
Identification and Differentiation:
- Each ingot bundle or jumbo ingot must be identified by the correct color code, supporting rapid visual checks and reduced risk of alloy mix-up.
- Alloy types are differentiated not only by color but also by reference to Unified Numbering System (UNS) designations.
Safety and Compliance:
- The standard highlights the user’s responsibility to consult applicable Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and follow safety, health, and environmental practices.
Applications
Hot-Dip Galvanizing Facilities:
- Streamlines the identification of zinc and zinc alloy ingots, reducing delays and errors during alloy selection for galvanizing operations.
- Enables quick visual audit of inventory for correct alloys before use in zinc baths.
Warehousing and Logistics:
- Facilitates correct, efficient handling, storage, and dispatch of zinc and alloy ingots, minimizing contamination, mixing, or misapplication.
- Supports inventory management across suppliers, distributors, and end users operating in both North American and international contexts.
Quality Control and Compliance:
- Promotes industry standardization, making audits and regulatory compliance straightforward.
- Assists in maintaining traceable and certified supply chains for zinc alloys used in protective coatings for steel.
International and Cross-Regional Trade:
- Ensures consistent alloy identification and traceability in global markets through harmonized color codes, bridging North American and International (ISO and EN) practices.
Related Standards
ASTM B914-21 works in coordination with several related standards to ensure consistency across the non-ferrous metals industry:
- ASTM B6: Specification for Zinc
- ASTM B750: Specification for GALFAN (Zinc-5% Aluminum-Mischmetal) Alloy in Ingot Form for Hot-Dip Coatings
- ASTM B852: Specification for Continuous Galvanizing Grade (CGG) Zinc Alloys
- ASTM B860: Specification for Zinc Master Alloys
- ASTM B997: Specification for Zinc-Aluminum Alloys in Ingot Form
- EN 1179: European Standard for Primary Zinc and Zinc Alloys
- ISO 752: Zinc and Zinc Alloys - Primary Zinc
- ASTM E527: Practice for Numbering Metals and Alloys in the Unified Numbering System (UNS)
- ASTM B899: Terminology Relating to Non-Ferrous Metals and Alloys
Adherence to ASTM B914-21 helps ensure uniformity and best practices in the handling and identification of zinc and zinc alloy ingots for hot-dip galvanizing, supporting both operational excellence and product quality across the galvanizing industry.
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Frequently Asked Questions
ASTM B914-21 is a standard published by ASTM International. Its full title is "Standard Practice for Color Codes on Zinc and Zinc Alloy Ingot for Use in Hot-Dip Galvanizing of Steel". This standard covers: SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 4.1 The purpose of these color codes is to allow for quick identification of ingot bundles or jumbo ingots of alloys used for hot-dip galvanizing. Other than jumbo ingots, this standard is not intended to imply that each ingot will be color-coded but only that each ingot bundle be color coded. 4.2 Each ingot bundle or jumbo ingot shall be identified with the appropriate color code listed in Table 1. (A) UNS assignations were established in accordance with Practice E527. The last digit of a UNS number differentiates between alloys of similar composition.(B) The North American system is designed to be a simplified version of the International system by eliminating the leading yellow stripe.(C) Color codes taken from European Standard EN 1179.(D) GALFAN is a registered trademark of the GALFAN Information Center, Inc.(E) GALVALUME is a registered trademark of BIEC International Inc., USA. 4.3 The color will be applied as a stripe, or stripes, on two adjacent sides of the ingot bundle or jumbo ingot. The color stripes will be applied to include the ingot bundle foot. 4.4 When using multiple stripes, the colored stripes will be applied from left to right as indicated in Table 1. 4.5 In the absence of a written agreement to the contrary between the supplier and end user, the North American color code will be the standard for all North American transactions; for all other transactions the International Color Code will be used. SCOPE 1.1 This standard is published with the following objectives: 1.1.1 To establish standard color codes for zinc, zinc alloy and zinc master alloy ingot used by the Hot-Dip Galvanizing industry, and 1.1.2 To standardize the use and application of these color codes. 1.2 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 become familiar with all hazards including those identified in the appropriate Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for this product/material as provided by the manufacturer, to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices, and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. 1.3 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 4.1 The purpose of these color codes is to allow for quick identification of ingot bundles or jumbo ingots of alloys used for hot-dip galvanizing. Other than jumbo ingots, this standard is not intended to imply that each ingot will be color-coded but only that each ingot bundle be color coded. 4.2 Each ingot bundle or jumbo ingot shall be identified with the appropriate color code listed in Table 1. (A) UNS assignations were established in accordance with Practice E527. The last digit of a UNS number differentiates between alloys of similar composition.(B) The North American system is designed to be a simplified version of the International system by eliminating the leading yellow stripe.(C) Color codes taken from European Standard EN 1179.(D) GALFAN is a registered trademark of the GALFAN Information Center, Inc.(E) GALVALUME is a registered trademark of BIEC International Inc., USA. 4.3 The color will be applied as a stripe, or stripes, on two adjacent sides of the ingot bundle or jumbo ingot. The color stripes will be applied to include the ingot bundle foot. 4.4 When using multiple stripes, the colored stripes will be applied from left to right as indicated in Table 1. 4.5 In the absence of a written agreement to the contrary between the supplier and end user, the North American color code will be the standard for all North American transactions; for all other transactions the International Color Code will be used. SCOPE 1.1 This standard is published with the following objectives: 1.1.1 To establish standard color codes for zinc, zinc alloy and zinc master alloy ingot used by the Hot-Dip Galvanizing industry, and 1.1.2 To standardize the use and application of these color codes. 1.2 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 become familiar with all hazards including those identified in the appropriate Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for this product/material as provided by the manufacturer, to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices, and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. 1.3 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 B914-21 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 77.150.99 - Other products of non-ferrous metals. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.
ASTM B914-21 has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to ASTM B860-17, ASTM B899-16, ASTM B860-16, ASTM B997-16, ASTM B852-16, ASTM B860-15, ASTM B899-15, ASTM B997-15, ASTM B852-14, ASTM B899-14, ASTM B899-13, ASTM B6-13, ASTM B860-13, ASTM B6-12, ASTM B750-12. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.
ASTM B914-21 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: B914 − 21
Standard Practice for
Color Codes on Zinc and Zinc Alloy Ingot for Use in Hot-Dip
Galvanizing of Steel
This standard is issued under the fixed designation B914; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope* B860 Specification for Zinc Master Alloys for Use in Hot
Dip Galvanizing
1.1 Thisstandardispublishedwiththefollowingobjectives:
B899 Terminology Relating to Non-ferrous Metals and Al-
1.1.1 To establish standard color codes for zinc, zinc alloy
loys
and zinc master alloy ingot used by the Hot-Dip Galvanizing
B997 Specification for Zinc-Aluminum Alloys in Ingot
industry, and
Form for Hot-Dip Coatings
1.1.2 To standardize the use and application of these color
E527 Practice for Numbering Metals and Alloys in the
codes.
Unified Numbering System (UNS)
1.2 This standard does not purport to address all of the
2.3 ISO Standard:
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
ISO 752 Zinc and Zinc Alloys–Primary Zinc
responsibility of the user of this standard to become familiar
2.4 CEN Standard:
with all hazards including those identified in the appropriate
EN 1179 Zinc and Zinc Alloys–Primary Zinc
Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for this product/material as provided
by the manufacturer, to establish appropriate safety, health,
3. Terminology
and environmental practices, and determine the applicability
of regulatory limitations prior to use.
3.1 Terms shall be defined in accordance with Terminology
1.3 This international standard was developed in accor-
B899.
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
4. Significance and Use
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
4.1 The purpose of these color codes is to allow for quick
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
identification of ingot bundles or jumbo ingots of alloys used
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
for hot-dip galvanizing. Other than jumbo ingots, this standard
is not intended to imply that each ingot will be color-coded but
2. Referenced Documents
only that each ingot bundle be color coded.
2.1 The following documents of the issue in effect on date
4.2 Each ingot bundle or jumbo ingot shall be identified
of order acceptance form a part of this specification to the
with the appropriate color code listed in Table 1.
extent referenced herein:
4.3 The color will be applied as a stripe, or stripes, on two
2.2 ASTM Standards:
adjacent sides of the ingot bundle or jumbo ingot. The color
B6 Specification for Zinc
stripes will be applied to include the ingot bundle foot.
B750 Specification for GALFAN (Zinc-5 % Aluminum-
,
Mischmetal) Alloy in Ingot Form for Hot-Dip Coatings
4.4 When using multiple stripes, the colored stripes will be
B852 Specification for Continuous Galvanizing Grade
applied from left to right as indicated in Table 1.
(CGG) Zinc Alloys for Hot-Dip Galvanizing of Sheet
4.5 In the absence of a written agreement to the contrary
Steel
between the supplier and end user, the North American color
code will be the standard for all North American transactions;
This practice is under the jurisdiction ofASTM Committee B02 on Nonferrous
for all other transactions the International Color Code will be
Metals andAlloys and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee B02.04 on Zinc
and Cadmium.
used.
Current edition approved Nov. 1, 2021. Published December 2021. Originally
approved in 2000. Last previous edition approved in 2019 as B914 – 19. DOI:
10.1520/B0914-21.
2 3
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or Available from American National Standards Institute (ANSI), 25 W. 43rd St.,
contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM 4th Floor, New York, NY 10036, http://www.ansi.org.
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on Available from Global Engineering Documents, 1
...
This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: B914 − 19 B914 − 21
Standard Practice for
Color Codes on Zinc and Zinc Alloy Ingot for Use in Hot-Dip
Galvanizing of Steel
This standard is issued under the fixed designation B914; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope*
1.1 This standard is published with the following objectives:
1.1.1 To establish standard color codes for zinc, zinc alloy and zinc master alloy ingot used by the Hot-Dip Galvanizing industry,
and
1.1.2 To standardize the use and application of these color codes.
1.2 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 become familiar with all hazards including those identified in the appropriate Safety Data Sheet
(SDS) for this product/material as provided by the manufacturer, to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental
practices, and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.3 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.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 The following documents of the issue in effect on date of order acceptance form a part of this specification to the extent
referenced herein:
2.2 ASTM Standards:
B6 Specification for Zinc
,
B750 Specification for GALFAN (Zinc-5 % Aluminum-Mischmetal) Alloy in Ingot Form for Hot-Dip Coatings
B852 Specification for Continuous Galvanizing Grade (CGG) Zinc Alloys for Hot-Dip Galvanizing of Sheet Steel
B860 Specification for Zinc Master Alloys for Use in Hot Dip Galvanizing
B899 Terminology Relating to Non-ferrous Metals and Alloys
B997 Specification for Zinc-Aluminum Alloys in Ingot Form for Hot-Dip Coatings
E527 Practice for Numbering Metals and Alloys in the Unified Numbering System (UNS)
2.3 ISO Standard:
ISO 752 Zinc and Zinc Alloys–Primary Zinc
This practice is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee B02 on Nonferrous Metals and Alloys and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee B02.04 on Zinc and
Cadmium.
Current edition approved July 1, 2019Nov. 1, 2021. Published July 2019December 2021. Originally approved in 2000. Last previous edition approved in 20132019 as
ɛ1
B914B914 – 19.– 13 . DOI: 10.1520/B0914-19.10.1520/B0914-21.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
Available from American National Standards Institute (ANSI), 25 W. 43rd St., 4th Floor, New York, NY 10036, http://www.ansi.org.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
B914 − 21
2.4 CEN Standard:
EN 1179 Zinc and Zinc Alloys–Primary Zinc
3. Terminology
3.1 Terms shall be defined in accordance with Terminology B899.
4. Significance and Use
4.1 The purpose of these color codes is to allow for quick identification of ingot bundles or jumbo ingots of alloys used for hot-dip
galvanizing. Other than jumbo ingots, this standard is not intended to imply that each ingot will be color-coded but only that each
ingot bundle be color coded.
4.2 Each ingot bundle or jumbo ingot shall be identified with the appropriate color code listed in Table 1.
4.3 The color will be applied as a stripe, or stripes, on two adjacent sides of the ingot bundle or jumbo ingot. The color stripes
will be applied to include the ingot bundle foot.
4.4 When using multiple stripes, the colored stripes will be applied from left to right as indicated in Table 1.
4.5 In the absence of a written a
...








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