Browse Standards J423_202305
Current STABILIZED 2023-05-22

Methods of Measuring Case Depth(STABILIZED May 2023) J423_202305

Case hardening may be defined as a process for hardening a ferrous material in such a manner that the surface layer, known as the case, is substantially harder than the remaining material, known as the core. The process embraces carburizing, nitriding, carbonitriding, cyaniding, induction, and flame hardening. In every instance, chemical composition, mechanical properties, or both are affected by such practice.
This testing procedure describes various methods for measuring the depth to which change has been made in either chemical composition or mechanical properties. Each procedure has its own area of application established through proved practice, and no single method is advocated for all purposes.
Methods employed for determining the depth of case are either chemical, mechanical, or visual, and the specimens or parts may be subjected to the described test either in the soft or hardened condition. The measured case depth may then be reported as either effective or total case depth on hardened specimens, and as total case depth on unhardened specimens.
It should be recognized that the relationship between case depths as determined by the different methods can vary extensively. Factors affecting this relationship include case characteristics, parent steel composition, quenching conditions, and others. It is not possible to predict, in some instances for example, effective case depth by chemical or visual means. It is important, therefore, that the method of case depth determination be carefully selected on the basis of specific requirements, consistent with economy.
J423_202305
2023-05-22
Latest
Stabilized
J423_199802
1998-02-01
Historical
Reaffirmed

SAE MOBILUS

Subscribers can view annotate, and download all of SAE's content. Learn More »

Access SAE MOBILUS »

Members save up to 11% off list price.
Login to see discount.
Special Offer: JPaks offers a customized subscription plan that is cost-effective and allows you to choose the number of downloads and Ground Vehicle documents you need. Find more information here.

Get Involved

Want to participate in updating this standard?

X