Fine ceramics (advanced ceramics, advanced technical ceramics) - Classification system

This International Standard describes a system by which fine ceramics (advanced ceramics, advanced technical ceramics) (see clause 3) may be classified. The system has been devised to cover all types of fine ceramics in the form of inorganic precursors for ceramic powder production, powders, granular forms, fibres, whiskers, platelets, single crystals, consolidated polycrystalline ceramics, amorphous (glassy) and composite materials and components in block, thin film and coating forms. The structure of the classification is coded to be machine readable. The classification system does not cover: elemental carbon, except for specific ceramic forms such as diamond, vitreous carbon or chemical vapour deposited (CVD) graphite; elemental silicon, elemental germanium and other elemental or compound semi-metallic substances other than when they form an integral component of or precoursor for fine ceramics; traditional ceramics based on clay, including: whitewares (e.g. tableware and fine porcelain); sanitary wares; floor and wall tiles; building ceramics (e.g. bricks and pipes); unshaped and shaped refractories for tonnage applications. This International Standard does not specifically cover hardmetal (cemented carbide) products, or products which are mainly glassy, but the system can, in principle, be extended to cover such products. Its mode of use will be determined by the objective behind its use. It is not the purpose of this International Standard to define how the system shall be used, but examples are given of how it might be used. The user is able to define the coding combination and the level of detail to suit a particular purpose. This International Standard provides only a flexible framework and a recommended international coding system within which this might be done.

Céramiques techniques — Système de classification

General Information

Status
Published
Publication Date
07-Nov-2001
Technical Committee
ISO/TC 206 - Fine ceramics
Current Stage
9093 - International Standard confirmed
Start Date
20-Jun-2022
Completion Date
13-Dec-2025

Overview

ISO 15165:2001 - Fine ceramics (advanced ceramics, advanced technical ceramics) - Classification system - defines a flexible, machine‑readable coding framework for classifying fine (advanced) ceramic materials and components. The standard covers inorganic precursors, powders, granules, fibres, whiskers, platelets, single crystals, consolidated polycrystalline ceramics, glassy/amorphous and composite materials, and components in block, thin‑film and coating forms. It provides a recommended international coding system that users can adapt to their own level of detail and application.

Key topics and technical requirements

  • Classification fields: The system is built from independent classification fields identified by initial letters:
    • A = Application (three‑digit application codes; hierarchical grouping by principal function)
    • C = Chemical character (form + species; short and long formats)
    • P = Processing methods
    • D = Property data
  • Chemical coding formats:
    • Short format: 4‑digit codes for broad commercial or inventory descriptions (range 5001–9999).
    • Long format: Detailed, repeatable sequences identifying individual chemical species and optional mass fractions (codes 0001–4999).
  • Machine‑readable structure: Codes are alphanumeric strings designed for database and automated processing. Users may concatenate fields in any sequence suitable to their objectives.
  • Normative and informative annexes: Annexes A, B and D are normative (application, chemical descriptor, property data); Annexes C and E provide informative guidance (processing, bibliography).
  • Scope exclusions: Traditional clay‑based ceramics (whiteware, tiles, sanitary ware, building ceramics), bulk refractories, most elemental carbon and elemental semi‑metallic substances (except when integral to fine ceramics), and hardmetals are generally excluded.

Practical applications and users

ISO 15165 is intended for:

  • Materials scientists and R&D teams classifying new ceramic compositions and documenting properties.
  • Manufacturers and suppliers organizing product catalogs, inventory and quality records.
  • Database managers and informatics teams implementing machine‑readable material identifiers.
  • Procurement, standards bodies and trade analysts performing market surveys, commercial statistics and cross‑border classification.
  • Design and engineering teams needing unambiguous material identifiers for specifications, coatings, thin films and composites.

Practical uses include product identification, materials data banks, trade statistics, specification writing, and linking chemistry → processing → properties → application in traceable, searchable form.

Related standards

  • ISO 15165 references electrotechnical ceramic standards such as IEC 60672‑2 and IEC 60672‑3 for test methods and material specifications; users should consult these normative references where relevant.

Keywords: ISO 15165, fine ceramics classification, advanced ceramics, classification system, chemical character code, application codes, machine‑readable coding, ceramic powders, ceramic coatings.

Standard

ISO 15165:2001 - Fine ceramics (advanced ceramics, advanced technical ceramics) -- Classification system

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Frequently Asked Questions

ISO 15165:2001 is a standard published by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). Its full title is "Fine ceramics (advanced ceramics, advanced technical ceramics) - Classification system". This standard covers: This International Standard describes a system by which fine ceramics (advanced ceramics, advanced technical ceramics) (see clause 3) may be classified. The system has been devised to cover all types of fine ceramics in the form of inorganic precursors for ceramic powder production, powders, granular forms, fibres, whiskers, platelets, single crystals, consolidated polycrystalline ceramics, amorphous (glassy) and composite materials and components in block, thin film and coating forms. The structure of the classification is coded to be machine readable. The classification system does not cover: elemental carbon, except for specific ceramic forms such as diamond, vitreous carbon or chemical vapour deposited (CVD) graphite; elemental silicon, elemental germanium and other elemental or compound semi-metallic substances other than when they form an integral component of or precoursor for fine ceramics; traditional ceramics based on clay, including: whitewares (e.g. tableware and fine porcelain); sanitary wares; floor and wall tiles; building ceramics (e.g. bricks and pipes); unshaped and shaped refractories for tonnage applications. This International Standard does not specifically cover hardmetal (cemented carbide) products, or products which are mainly glassy, but the system can, in principle, be extended to cover such products. Its mode of use will be determined by the objective behind its use. It is not the purpose of this International Standard to define how the system shall be used, but examples are given of how it might be used. The user is able to define the coding combination and the level of detail to suit a particular purpose. This International Standard provides only a flexible framework and a recommended international coding system within which this might be done.

This International Standard describes a system by which fine ceramics (advanced ceramics, advanced technical ceramics) (see clause 3) may be classified. The system has been devised to cover all types of fine ceramics in the form of inorganic precursors for ceramic powder production, powders, granular forms, fibres, whiskers, platelets, single crystals, consolidated polycrystalline ceramics, amorphous (glassy) and composite materials and components in block, thin film and coating forms. The structure of the classification is coded to be machine readable. The classification system does not cover: elemental carbon, except for specific ceramic forms such as diamond, vitreous carbon or chemical vapour deposited (CVD) graphite; elemental silicon, elemental germanium and other elemental or compound semi-metallic substances other than when they form an integral component of or precoursor for fine ceramics; traditional ceramics based on clay, including: whitewares (e.g. tableware and fine porcelain); sanitary wares; floor and wall tiles; building ceramics (e.g. bricks and pipes); unshaped and shaped refractories for tonnage applications. This International Standard does not specifically cover hardmetal (cemented carbide) products, or products which are mainly glassy, but the system can, in principle, be extended to cover such products. Its mode of use will be determined by the objective behind its use. It is not the purpose of this International Standard to define how the system shall be used, but examples are given of how it might be used. The user is able to define the coding combination and the level of detail to suit a particular purpose. This International Standard provides only a flexible framework and a recommended international coding system within which this might be done.

ISO 15165:2001 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 81.060.30 - Advanced ceramics. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.

ISO 15165:2001 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)


INTERNATIONAL ISO
STANDARD 15165
First edition
2001-10-15
Fine ceramics (advanced ceramics,
advanced technical ceramics) —
Classification system
Céramiques techniques — Système de classification
Reference number
©
ISO 2001
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ii © ISO 2001 – All rights reserved

Contents Page
Foreword.iv
Introduction.v
1 Scope .1
2 Normative references .1
3 Terms and definitions .2
4 Objectives.2
5 Individual classification fields.3
6 Construction of a complete classification code.13
Annex A (normative) Application classification field.15
Annex B (normative) Chemical character descriptor field.35
Annex C (informative) Processing classification field .60
Annex D (normative) Property data classification field .65
Annex E (informative) Bibliography to annex D.74
Bibliography.79
Foreword
ISO (the International Organization for Standardization) is a worldwide federation of national standards bodies (ISO
member bodies). The work of preparing International 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 3.
Draft International 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 International Standard may be the subject of
patent rights. ISO shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
International Standard ISO 15165 was prepared by Technical Committee ISO/TC 206, Fine ceramics.
Annexes A, B and D form a normative part of this International Standard. Annexes C and E are for information only.
iv © ISO 2001 – All rights reserved

Introduction
The detail of the classification system has been developed by international collaboration under the auspices of VAMAS
Technical Working Area 14, and with support from the Commission of the European Communities, ASTM Institute of
Standards Research and the Japan Fine Ceramics Association. Its construction has followed an international survey of
[1]
requirements amongst manufacturing and user industries , discussions at an international workshop at Ispra, Italy,
[2] [3] [4]
June 1990 , a consultant's study , and a final report of the work of VAMAS TWA14 .
The use of this International Standard has been reviewed by VAMAS TWA14 in an international project to test and
demonstrate it. Based on the findings of this work, modifications agreed by VAMAS have been made to the original
[4]
VAMAS Report .
INTERNATIONAL STANDARD ISO 15165:2001(E)
Fine ceramics (advanced ceramics, advanced technical
ceramics) — Classification system
1 Scope
This International Standard describes a system by which fine ceramics (advanced ceramics, advanced technical
ceramics) (see clause 3) may be classified. The system has been devised to cover all types of fine ceramics in the form
of inorganic precursors for ceramic powder production, powders, granular forms, fibres, whiskers, platelets, single
crystals, consolidated polycrystalline ceramics, amorphous (glassy) and composite materials and components in block,
thin film and coating forms. The structure of the classification is coded to be machine readable.
The classification system does not cover:
a) elemental carbon, except for specific ceramic forms such as diamond, vitreous carbon or chemical vapour
deposited (CVD) graphite;
b) elemental silicon, elemental germanium and other elemental or compound semi-metallic substances other
than when they form an integral component of or precoursor for fine ceramics;
c) traditional ceramics based on clay, including:
1) whitewares (e.g. tableware and fine porcelain);
2) sanitary wares;
3) floor and wall tiles;
4) building ceramics (e.g. bricks and pipes);
d) unshaped and shaped refractories for tonnage applications.
This International Standard does not specifically cover hardmetal (cemented carbide) products, or products which are
mainly glassy, but the system can, in principle, be extended to cover such products. Its mode of use will be determined
by the objective behind its use. It is not the purpose of this International Standard to define how the system shall be
used, but examples are given of how it might be used. The user is able to define the coding combination and the level
of detail to suit a particular purpose. This International Standard provides only a flexible framework and a
recommended international coding system within which this might be done.
2 Normative references
The following normative documents contain provisions which, through reference in this text, constitute provisions of
this International Standard. For dated references, subsequent amendments to, or revisions of, any of these
publications do not apply. However, parties to agreements based on this International Standard are encouraged to
investigate the possibility of applying the most recent editions of the normative documents indicated below. For
undated references, the latest edition of the normative document referred to applies. Members of ISO and IEC
maintain registers of currently valid International Standards.
IEC 60672-2, Ceramic and glass insulating materials — Part 2: Methods of test
IEC 60672-3, Ceramic and glass insulating materials — Part 3: Specifications for individual materials
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this International Standard, the following terms and definitions apply.
3.1
fine ceramic (advanced ceramic, advanced technical ceramic)
highly engineered, high-performance, predominantly non-metallic, inorganic, ceramic material having specific
functional attributes
NOTE Other terms which in whole or in part cover the scope of the above expression are in common use. The above term
is the preferred one in all circumstances.
3.2
classification field
set of categories related to one independent aspect or feature of the classification
3.3
classification element
single category in a classification field
3.4
code
alphanumeric string with a prescribed definition in terms of material attributes
3.5
coding element
part of the alphanumeric code from one classification field
4 Objectives
This International Standard provides a framework wherein fine ceramic (advanced ceramic, advanced technical
ceramic) products and materials can be classified for a variety of purposes including commercial statistics, market
surveys, materials identification, coding and data bases.
The present range of products that is encompassed by the term “fine ceramics” or its synonyms “advanced ceramics”
or “advanced technical ceramics”, or others, is enormous in breadth and complex in chemical character, form and
property attributes. Normally there are close interlinks between these factors. It has therefore been impossible to devise
a single hierarchical system, such as that used in IEC 60672-3 for electrotechnical ceramics for insulators or that in the
Harmonised Commodity Description and Coding System for goods or derivatives thereof. The system developed and
incorporated into this International Standard is novel in many respects in order to encompass all foreseen requirements
and purposes, and all raw and manufactured materials and applications, i.e. it has great flexibility.
For these purposes, an adequate classification of the diversity of materials and products in various stages of
manufacture may require the linking of chemical composition, form, processing method, material properties and
applications in any required combination. The system described in this International Standard has the capability of
classifying fine (advanced, advanced technical) ceramics by any combination of these fields in any sequence for any
desired purpose. The fields are described individually in the following sections. Annexes A, B, C and D provide a
coding method for each classification field of the system.
The user should select from the classification fields those relevant to his requirement, and place these in an order
prescribed for the particular purpose. Some possible combinations are described in clause 6.
2 © ISO 2001 – All rights reserved

5 Individual classification fields
5.1 Introduction
Since the intention is to provide a means of classifying any combination of fields in any sequence appropriate to user
needs, each field is separately identified by a unique initial letter code:
� A = application
� C = chemical character
� P = processing methods
� D = property characteristic or data
The form of the product is closely related to chemical character and is incorporated into the chemistry code. If
appropriate, additional classification fields may be added in the same way. In each case these should be identifiable in
a coding string by a unique initial letter code.
For the purposes of computer recognition, a strict sequence of classification elements is not required, but for other
purposes, such as manual preparation of trade statistics or material specifications, the sequence of classification
elements should be chosen and fixed as preferred.
In the following description of code structures, the variable characters used in the code are:
� X = any appropriate single capital letter coding character
� n = any appropriate single numeric coding character
5.2 Classification field for application type
The initial character to denote the start of the “Application” string is “A”. This is followed by a three-digit number code as
listed in annex A for the application areas. In the list, applications are initially separated into a hierarchical series of
areas by the principal functions of the product as defined by:
� electrical insulation, i.e. insulators for a wide variety of purposes;
� electronic/ionic conduction, i.e. electronic or ionic conductors for heating or functional purposes;
� mechanical functions, including wear, at or near room temperature;
� thermal and thermomechanical functions, where dimensional stability at raised temperature, heat
insulation, heat conduction or resistance to thermal shock are the principal functions, and where additionally
mechanical loads may be applied;
� nuclear functions, where the component plays either an active or a passive nuclear role;
� optical functions, where the component plays a functional role as an optical element in reflection, refraction,
transmission or absorption of electromagnetic radiation;
� chemical functions, including biomedical, where the component is employed for handling melts, chemicals,
solutions or atmospheres because of its resistance to attack by them and, in the case of biomedical materials,
a degree of bio-compatibility;
� magnetic functions, where the component possesses properties allowing a functional magnetic role;
� powder functions, where the fine ceramic is supplied in powder or granule form for use as such.
The first digit of the three-digit code is given as above by the principal physical function. The subsequent digits are non-
hierarchical, and follow the listing given in annex A. To aid the identification of codes, an alphabetical index is also
given. Figure 1 shows a flow diagram for the selection of application codes.
It may not always be possible to assign a particular product to one of the listed codes. In such a case, the code
representing “Other functions” shall be employed, either within each of the above areas as appropriate, or failing
this under codes 980-999.
If the product needs to be classified as having a general applicability to a range of unspecified applications, the
general “unspecified” code (generally of form An00, except A400, but including A950) at the beginning of each
group shall be used.
EXAMPLES
Resistor cores code A144
Wear resisting pads for slideways code A326
Rubber dipping formers code A820
5.3 Classification field for chemical character
5.3.1 The initial identifier indicating “chemical character” is “C”. Because the chemical character of fine ceramics
(advanced ceramics, advanced technical ceramics) can be complex, a flexible method of classification has been
devised. The one or two alphabetical characters that follow the initial “C” indicate the form in which the chemical
species exists (precursor, powder, solid ceramic, etc.). The following alphanumeric string indicates the species and,
optionally, the amount of it present, the relationship of a second species to the first (e.g. physical or chemical
admixture), etc. Details of the categories, their code letters and their uses are given in annex B.
Two formats of this string are given:
� a short format, intended for broad description of chemical character of common types of powder or ceramic
material;
� a long format, when more detailed chemical information is required, such as the individual chemical
components present and optionally their mass fractions.
5.3.2 The choice of whether to use the short-format or the long-format code is subject to agreement between
parties. However, it should be noted that converting from the short-format to the long-format code or vice versa is
not straightforward since the respective codings have different bases. Consequently, once a choice has been made
it should be adhered to.
NOTE The short-format code is most appropriate for dealing with commercial products, sales statistics or inventories
where the distinction between products is based primarily on overall chemical type, without the need to define the composition
in detail. The long-format code is most appropriate for use where the precise chemical make-up of the product needs to be
identified, e.g. in data banks or in recording manufacturing processes.
5.3.3 The short-format code is a four-digit number (nnnn) in the range 5001 to 9999 found in annex B. This is
appended directly without punctuation to the chemical character identifier (C) and the form identifier (XX) to form a
code:
CXXnnnn
This code is used with the appropriate form identifiers for all types of ceramic precursor and product. The classification
code is terminated either by no further characters, or by one of the initial characters A, P or D (or additional defined
initial classification field codes) indicating the start of another classification field.
EXAMPLES
Dense high-alumina ceramic, 95 % alumina CKB5040
Open porous calcium aluminosilicate ceramic (anorthite,e.g. metallurgical filter material) CKG5555
Separated and floated whiskers of alpha silicon carbide CWE6260
An open porous 2D woven silicon carbide fibre reinforced silicon carbide CKT6320
4 © ISO 2001 – All rights reserved

Figure 1 — Flow diagram showing the selection of codes for application
5.3.4 The long-format code is constructed as shown in Table 1. Chemical species codes are selected from code
numbers 0001 to 4999 given in annex B. The sequence of “form” plus “chemical code” plus optional “amount” string
may be repeated as few or as many times as is required to define the product in the detail required.
Important aspects to note are:
1) The code may be developed in the detail required to classify the product for the objective in mind.
2) Compositional detail may be appended if appropriate to end-use requirements. Two options are available;
see Table 1 for two options, either an additional code number or a supplementary statement.
3) The minimum classification long-format code is “form” plus one identified chemical compound; all
information beyond this point is non-mandatory.
4) The classification code is terminated either by no further characters, or by one of the initial characters A, P
or D (or additional defined initial classification field codes) indicating the start of another classification field.
5) Effective use of the long-format code requires detailed knowledge of the formulation and microstructure of
the product.
A flow diagram indicating the decision route to the identification and selection of codes is shown in Figure 2. The
following examples indicate the flexibility of use of the classification code in any appropriate way, while remaining
uniquely machine readable.
EXAMPLE 1
Alumina ceramic with 15 % by weight of unstabilized zirconia as a separate phase. Using Option 1 for the composition gives
(written with spaces for clarity):
6 © ISO 2001 – All rights reserved

Table 1 — Construction of the long-format chemical character code
Code element Description
C Chemical character code string identifier
XX One or two-letter code indicating the overall “form” of the product
nnnn Four-digit chemical character code from the numerical range 0001 to 4999 (see annex B)
Optional Option 1: coding element for indicating Option 2: If the precise composition in
“amount” of the species nnnn in the product percentage or parts per million terms is to be
n
expressed as mass percentage, according to expressed, the figure is placed in
the following code: parentheses (.) after the species code,
percentage being indicated by a following
1 u1%
letter “C” and parts per million by a following
letter “M”.
2 > 1 % to10 %
The figure may be preceded by “<” or “>” to
3 > 10 %to30%
signify less than or more than a given
4 > 30 %to50%
amount, respectively.
5 > 50 %to70%
6 > 70 %to90%
7 > 90 %to99%
8>99%
If the value is undefined or undefinable, this
character is omitted.
XX (**) Two letters indicating how a second species is mixed in relation to the first when in the same
form of product, e.g. for a specified second component in a two-species powder or ceramic,
or an impurity.
nnnn Four-digit chemical character code for the second species.
nOption1 Option 2
Optional single digit coding percentage, by Optional supplementary statement coding
mass, of second species as defined above. quantity, by mass, of second species, as
defined above.
(**) The sequence is repeated from (**) for third and subsequent species as necessary.
Figure 2 — Flow diagram for selection of codes representing chemical character
8 © ISO 2001 – All rights reserved

EXAMPLE 2
Alumina ceramic with 15 % by weight of yttria stabilized zirconia as separate phase, yttria content in the zirconia not defined but
less than 1 % by weight overall. Using Option 1 for bands of composition gives (written with spaces for clarity):
Option 2 defining the zirconia content at 15 % gives (written with spaces for clarity):
EXAMPLE 3
Sodium borosilicate glass of defined composition 71 % SiO ,12% Na O, 17 % B O ,using Option 2 for exact percentages
2 2 2 3
gives (written with spaces for clarity):
EXAMPLE 4
Silicon carbide whisker-reinforced alumina/unstabilized zirconia with unspecified composition. The compositional definition
option is not invoked, and gives (written with spaces for clarity):
For this particular case with unspecified percentages, the short form CKW5190 could be used with equal value.
NOTE It may not always be possible to assign a particular product to one of the listed codes. In such a case, the code or
codes representing “Other” chemical species should be used, either within a chemical group for the long-form code [e.g. “Other
chromites” (2119)] or within a generic ceramic type for the short-form code [e.g. “Other glass-ceramics” (9999)].
5.4 Classification field for processing
In cases where the method of processing the ceramic needs to be identified as part of the overall code string, for
example in internal inventories or data bases, this can be performed using a simple string. The initial letter is P,
followed by three digits selected from the listing given in annex C, i.e.:
Pnnn
This can be repeated as many times as is required to define adequately the process or processing route adopted. For
example, the processing code for a ceramic body might have the appearance:
P203P302P403P502P804
indicating that a chemically precipitated powder (P203) was used, which was spray dried (P302) prior to isostatic
pressing (P403), followed by sintering in air (P502). The component was then surface ground (P804).
5.5 Classification field for property characteristics or data
5.5.1 Many ceramic products are developed for specific property attributes appropriate to particular end uses. If it
is required to provide a classification element to define the “properties” or “characteristics”, this is done using a
code with an initial letter “D” (data), followed by a string of 3 to 6 numerical characters defined according to the
matrix in annex E. The first numerical character defines the property class, and the second the property type within
that class. Where appropriate, details of the properties are coded in subsequent numerical characters.
A flow diagram for the selection of property data codes is shown in Figure 3.
NOTE It is envisaged that property classification elements could be expanded into a more-detailed data base when this is
desired, the other classification elements being employed to define uniquely the chemical character, applications and any other
feature of the material or component.
10 © ISO 2001 – All rights reserved

Figure 3 — Flow diagram for the selection of codes representing data
5.5.2 For cases in which one or more properties are seen to be of relevance in the classification of a ceramic
product, but where it is either
� adequate to indicate simply this fact, or
� where it is not possible to ascribe a numerical value because there are no standardized procedures for giving
single-valued data, or
� there are no standardized or recognized test methods
the code is limited to the first three numerical characters. The citing of property characteristics in this manner shall
be taken to imply that the property is important for the function of the material, either by design of the material or by
the application for which it is intended.
EXAMPLES
An acid-resistant material D802
An electro-optic material D617
A material designed for (unspecified) thermal shock resistance D303
5.5.3 Where it is appropriate to use numerical property values, properties are divided into numerical bands of
values as determined by a specified test method. The appropriate band can be selected using the fourth numerical
character. When desirable or appropriate, the property band may be qualified by use of a fifth numerical character
indicating the temperature range in which the property has a value in the selected band. With particular reference
to electrical properties, a sixth numerical character may be selected to indicate the frequency range relevant to the
property data. The frequency character shall always be used in conjunction with the temperature character to avoid
ambiguity.
EXAMPLE 1
A material with room-temperature flexural strength of 600 MPa:
EXAMPLE 2
o
–4
An electrical insulator with loss tangent 5 � 10 at 400 Cand 10 MHz:
12 © ISO 2001 – All rights reserved

5.5.4 If more than one property characteristic is required, the code D is repeated, i.e.:
DnnnDnnnnnnDnnn .
represents three property features of particular relevance. These coding elements can be placed in any sequence
without change of meaning.
EXAMPLE
�1 �1 �4
A material with thermal conductivity 40 W m K , dielectric loss tangent 5 � 10 at 10 MHz and flexural strength 600 MPa, all
o
at 400 C:
D20164D609444D30154
The first two elements in this example are taken from the previous examples for single elements, and the third signifies the
thermal conductivity classification.
5.5.5 Optionally, a “supplementary statement” may be added to the classification code in order to indicate the
test method being used, a test method parameter, or other relevant attribute, e.g. colour. The supplementary
statement is enclosed in parentheses (.) and immediately follows the Dnnnnnn code.
EXAMPLE
Taking the previous example and adding the test methods and the colour of the product gives:
D20164(ISO 14704, 4-point bending, 40 mm span)D609444(IEC 60672)D30154(EN 821-2 and specific heat) D403(white)
5.6 Other classification fields
While not a defined part of this International Standard, additional classification fields may be used for further
features associated with a product as required by the application of the classification. If it is desired to include such
information, the classification fields should be constructed as agreed tables of codes in the form:
Xnnn
where X is a unique and unambiguously identifiable initial classification field character, and nnn is a three-digit
code from an agreed table. In this form, the additional classification elements remain unique and machine
readable.
Examples of attributes which could be coded in this way include:
� date of coding
� manufacturer's name
� country of origin
6 Construction of a complete classification code
The classification method described above may be used to assemble a code of any length to any level of detail
appropriate to the end-use requirements. By using unique letter identifiers at the start of each classification element an
individual element is easily identifiable in the combined code, which can then be constructed in any appropriate order of
classification fields.
The complete code comprises the individual coding elements in any agreed order, and shall be written as a continuous
string of characters with no gaps or punctuation.
It is the purpose of this International Standard to provide only a framework for classification rather than to prescribe
exact formats of codes for specific end functions. The system is sufficiently flexible to cover many envisaged purposes
by the appropriate agreed methods of selecting and ordering the coding elements. However, it is recommended that
unless otherwise required, the short format chemistry code is used.
The following examples are given to illustrate the potential applications.
EXAMPLE 1 To survey markets or to compile trade statistics for fine ceramics, a trade organization might require
compilation of sales data by its members by classifying their products according to the criterion:
application + short-form chemical character
The classification code would appear as:
AnnnCXXnnnn
where XX defines the form of the product of interest, and nnnn is a short form code for a particular chemistry category. Trade
returns could be demanded labelled in this way. Thus, reduced titania threadguides would be coded:
A402CKB6441
EXAMPLE 2 A research organization wishes to construct a data base based on brochures for commercially available
materials. The chemical character is the principal identifier, and the available information from manufacturers on chemical
character and principle property data might be converted into a machine readable code:
CXXnnnnDnnnDnnnDnnnnn.
In this case the application may not be relevant, while the data elements are key items allowing differentiation between
products. As many data elements as needed may be added in the data string. Alternatively, the chemical character string alone
could be used to head a purpose-built detailed property data base. For example, a 95 % alumina ceramic used as an electrical
insulator with the property data defined in 5.5.3 above would be coded:
CKB5040D20162D609444
EXAMPLE 3 An organization requires a ceramic material with specific property attributes for a particular application. The
chemical character is not important. The product could be characterized using the code:
AnnnDnnnDnnnnnnDnnnnDnnnn.
where the data classification field is used to identify the broad property requirements. This code could be used to search a data
base; e.g. a rotating shaft seal for a chemical plant pump requiring high strength (� 200 MPa, room temperature implied), sliding
o
wear resistance, acid resistance and resistance to water quench thermal shock to 300 C could be searched for using the code:
A371D2015D702D802D3033
14 © ISO 2001 – All rights reserved

Annex A
(normative)
Application classification field
A.1 Introduction
This field is uniquely identified by the initial letter A.
The classification list for applications of fine ceramics (advanced ceramics, advanced technical ceramics) is given
below. The list is composed of a hierarchy of application types grouped as given below.
To assist in the identification of the appropriate class and code as determined by its principal function, an alphabetical
index follows the hierarchical listing.
NOTE Since the application range for fine ceramic (advanced ceramic, advanced technical ceramic) products is widening
rapidly, this list may not include recently developed applications. Where there is any doubt, until the classification is updated, the
most appropriate “other” identification should be used.
Code No. Application type
100-199 Passive electrical applications
200-299 Active electrical applications
300-499 Mechanical applications
500-599 Thermal and thermomechanical applications
600-699 Nuclear applications
700-799 Optical applications
800-899 Chemical applications, including biomedical applications
900-949 Magnetic applications
950-979 Ceramic powder applications
980-999 Other applications
In cases where a material needs to be described as having a general field of application, e.g. unspecified mechanical
applications, the unspecified or general code given at the head of each sublist shall be used. In cases where the
application is specified, but not explicitly listed, the “other” code given at the end of the relevant sublist shall be used.
Some applications may appear not to fall uniquely into a single category listed above by virtue of using several
advantageous features. An example would be a rotating shaft seal for a chemical plant pump. This performs a
mechanical function in a chemical environment and is listed under mechanical applications. The rule shall be used
such that the application is coded under the general heading which is most appropriate to its field of use. An index is
provided to assist location in the list.
A.2 Classes of applications
100-199 Passive electrical applications
100 Unspecified or general passive electrical applications
Power insulators
101 Structural electrical power insulators
102 Small low-tension electrical insulators (e.g. stand-off insulators, bus bar supports, terminal blocks)
103 Spark plug insulators
104 Igniter insulators
105 Glow plug insulators
106 Eyelets and cable cleats
o
107 Bushes, sleeves,u 200 C
o
108 Bushes, sleeves,� 200 C
109 Aerial insulators
110 Low power coil formers
111 High power coil formers
112 Precision coil formers
113 Coil formers for high frequency applications
114 Coil formers for high temperature applications
115 Low power fuse bodies
116 High power fuse bodies
117 Vacuum envelopes
118 Vacuum leadthroughs
119 Electrical insulators for use in vacuum
120 Other electrical components for use in vacuum
121 Thermostat bases and assemblies
122 Cartridge heater supports and assemblies
123 Moulded insulators
124 Moulded insulators with metal parts
139 Other power electrical insulators
Insulators for electronics
140 Substrates for electronic components, monolithic, including pin-grid arrays
141 Multilayer interconnects for electronic circuits, including pin-grid arrays
142 Heat sinks
143 Power semiconductor housings
144 Resistor cores
169 Other insulators for electronics
16 © ISO 2001 – All rights reserved

Microwave insulators
170 Radomes and missile nosecones
171 Windows for use in microwave devices
172 Absorbers and attenuators for microwave devices
173 Phase shifters for use in microwave devices
179 Other applications in microwave devices
199 Other passive electrical applications
200-299 Active electrical applications
200 Unspecified or general active electrical applications
Ohmic electrical conductors
201 Ohmic heating elements
202 High frequency susceptors
203 Electrodes
204 Igniters, jet engine
205 Thermionic emitting cathodes
206 Semiconducting devices for IC handling
219 Other ohmic electrical conducting applications
Ionic conductors
220 Battery electrolytes
221 Fuel cell electrolytes
222 Gas detectors
223 Exhaust oxygen sensors
224 Molten metal oxygen sensors
229 Other ionic conducting applications
Capacitor applications
230 Monolithic single-layer capacitors
231 Multilayer chip capacitors
239 Other capacitors
Non-ohmic electrical conductors
240 Varistors
241 Thermistors
242 Attenuators
243 Applications based on superconducting ceramic components
249 Other non-ohmic electrical conductors
Piezoelectric applications
250 Microphone membranes, including telephone handsets
251 Loudspeaker membranes, including telephone handsets
252 Other buzzers and vibrators
253 Force, pressure and acceleration transducers
254 Sonar emitters and detectors
255 Impact igniters
256 Mechanical actuators
257 Motor elements
258 Ink-jet printer heads
259 Resonators
260 Hydrophones
269 Other piezoelectric devices
270 Electrostrictive devices
280 Pyroelectric devices
299 Other functional electrical devices
300-499 Mechanical applications
300 Unspecified or general mechanical applications
Milling and crushing machinery
301 Mill bodies and mill linings
302 Milling media
303 Other mill parts
304 Pestle and mortar linings for grinding soft materials
305 Pestle and mortar linings for grinding hard materials
309 Other milling or crushing applications
Agricultural applications
310 Agricultural implements for soil working
311 Agricultural pulverizing nozzles
319 Other agricultural applications
Wear resistant facings for plant and machinery
320 Shot blast nozzles
321 Pipelines and cyclones
322 Chute linings
323 Food processing applications
324 Mould and die liners
325 Crushing rolls
326 Slideways, wear resisting pads
18 © ISO 2001 – All rights reserved

327 Forming rolls
328 Gear wheels
329 Other wear resistant facings
Ballistic applications
330 Ballistic armour
331 Ballistic projectiles
339 Other ballistic applications
Material cutting applications
340 Indexable cutting tools
341 Machine tool parts
343 Inserts for rock drilling
344 Paper, tape cutting knives
345 Domestic knives
346 Scissors and shears
347 Tool dressing components
359 Other material cutting applications
Material shaping applications
360 Cold die parts
361 Extrusion and drawing dies
362 Wire drawing cones
363 Dies for hot processes
364 Stamping dies and roller dies
369 Other material shaping applications
Pump applications
370 Vanes and impellers for pumps
371 Rotating shaft seals (stationary or rotating components)
372 Hydraulic plungers and cylinders
373 Pump bearing sleeves
374 Pump shafts
375 Pump housings
379 Other pump applications
Valve and tap (faucet) applications
380 Tap (faucet) valve faces, single lever action
381 Tap (faucet) valve faces, multiple lever action
382 Tap (faucet) valves, for water, other
383 Pneumatic valves
399 Other valve facings for non-corroding liquids
Guides for thread, paper, tape, wire, etc.
400 Thread-spinning nozzles
401 Friction discs for thread texturing
402 Thread guides
403 Guides, runners for paper handling
404 Applications in printer heads
405 Guides and other components for magnetic tape transport
406 Printing rollers
407 Wire guides
419 Other thread, paper, tape or wire guide applications
Bearing applications
420 Plain bearing sets
421 Roller bearing sets
422 Precision balls for bearings
423 Precision rollers for bearings
424 Thrust bearing sets
439 Other bearing applications
Precision jigs and metrological devices
440 Sizing rings
441 Gauge blocks
442 Jigs
443 Vee blocks
444 Surface plates and angle plates
459 Other precision tooling applications
Sports goods
460 Shoe studs
461 Golf-club inserts
462 Fishing rod ring liners
463 Ice-skate blades
469 Other applications in sports goods
Personal Applications
470 Watch cases
471 Jewellery
479 Other personal applications
499 Other mechanical applications
20 © ISO 2001 – All rights reserved

500-599 Thermal and thermomechanical applications
500 Unspecified or general thermal or thermomechanical applications
Temperature resistant electrical applications
501 Thermocouple insulators and sheaths
502 Coiled wire heating element supports
503 Supports for rod heating elements
504 Insulators for lamp elements
505 Resistance thermometer element bases
506 Lamp holders
509 Other temperature resistant electrical applications
High-temperature materials processing applications
510 Applications in hot metal immersion probes, including ferrules
511 Muffle tubes for furnaces
512 Saggars for material processing
513 Kiln furniture (ware support) for high temperature processing
514 Pins for refractory insulation
515 Furnace rollers, runners and guides
516 Burner parts
517 High duty heat exchangers
518 Low duty heat exchangers
519 High temperature gas valves
520 Weld pool rings
521 Gas and plasma welding nozzles
522 Welding jigs
523 Casting tubes for molten metals
524 Shell moulds
525 Casting cores
526 Filters for liquid metals
527 Break rings for the continuous casting process
528 Crucibles for metal melting and handling
529 Other liquid metal handling applications
530 Kiln furniture for electronic materials processing
539 Other high-temperature materials processing applications
Aerospace applications
540 Rocket nozzles
541 Ablation shields
542 Jet engine petals/nozzles
543 Brake discs
549 Other aerospace applications
Domestic applications
550 Domestic cooker tops
551 Cookery ware
559 Other domestic applications
Reciprocating engine applications
560 Cylinder blocks
561 Pistons and piston crowns
562 Fuel injector nozzles
563 Pre-combustion chambers
564 Piston pins
565 Valves and valve seats
566 Cam followers
567 Cylinder liners
568 Exhaust port liners
569 Exhaust pipe liners
570 Turbocharger rotors
571 Turbocharger stators
572 Turbocharger housing
573 Fuel injection pins
574 Diesel particulate filters
NOTE See code 843 for vehicle exhaust catalyst supports.
579 Other reciprocating engine applications
Applications in turbine engines
580 Rotors and blades
581 Stators
582 Combustion chambers
583 Fuel injectors
584 Regenerators and heat exchanger components
585 Thermal barrier coating of metallic components
586 Shrouds and shroud components
587 Scrolls and scroll components
588 Seals and seal components
589 Other gas turbine applications
599 Other thermal and thermomechanical applications
600-699 Nuclear applications
600 Unspecified or general nuclear applications
601 Nuclear fuel elements
602 Element separators in nuclear applications
603 Moderators in nuclear applications
22 © ISO 2001 – All rights reserved

699 Other nuclear applications
700-799 Optical applications
700 Unspecified or general optical applications
Reflective applications
701 Telescope mirrors
702 Synchrotron mirrors
709 Other reflective applications
Non-optical structural components for optical systems
710 Optical benches
711 Ferrules for fibre optics
719 Other structural components for optical applications
Laser components
720 Laser waveguides
721 Laser rods
729 Other components for lasers
Optical window applications
730 Windows for optical wavelengths
731 Windows for infrared wavelengths
739 Other optical window applications
Lamp envelopes
740 High power lamp envelopes
741 Envelopes for high pressure sodium vapour lamps
749 Other lamp envelopes
Active optical compon
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