What makes ASTM and ISO materials testing standards unique?

1 History of ASTM and ISO

ASTM and ISO are two of the most widely recognized and respected organizations that develop and publish standards for materials testing. ASTM stands for American Society for Testing and Materials, and ISO stands for International Organization for Standardization. ASTM was founded in 1898 as a voluntary association of engineers, scientists, and manufacturers who wanted to improve the quality and reliability of materials. ISO was established in 1947 as a network of national standards bodies that aimed to facilitate international trade and cooperation. Both organizations have evolved over time to cover a broad range of topics, industries, and technologies.

2 Scope of ASTM and ISO

ASTM and ISO standards cover different aspects of materials testing, such as terminology, methods, procedures, specifications, classifications, guides, and practices. ASTM standards are more focused on specific materials, products, or applications, while ISO standards are more general and harmonized across different sectors and regions. For example, ASTM has over 12,000 standards for various materials, such as metals, plastics, ceramics, composites, textiles, and more. ISO has about 23,000 standards for diverse fields, such as quality, environment, health, safety, energy, and information technology.

3 Benefits of ASTM and ISO

ASTM and ISO standards offer many advantages for materials science professionals and stakeholders, such as enhancing the quality and performance of materials and products, reducing the risks of failures, defects, and accidents, and increasing the efficiency and consistency of testing processes and results. These standards also facilitate communication and exchange of information and data, promote innovation and development of new materials and technologies, support compliance and regulation of materials and products, as well as enable global trade and competitiveness of materials and products.

4 How to use ASTM and ISO

ASTM and ISO standards are voluntary and consensus-based, which means they are developed and approved by the members and experts of the organizations. Not mandatory or legally binding, unless adopted or referenced by a contract, regulation, or authority, to use ASTM and ISO standards you must first obtain the relevant standards from the official websites or distributors of ASTM or ISO. It is important to follow the instructions and requirements of the standards carefully and accurately. Additionally, you should document and report the testing methods and results according to the standards, compare and evaluate the testing results with the standards or other sources, and update and revise the standards as needed or recommended.

5 How to choose between ASTM and ISO

When deciding whether to use ASTM or ISO standards, or both, you should consider the type, nature, and purpose of your materials and products, the scope and level of your testing objectives and criteria, the availability and affordability of standards and resources, the expectations of customers, partners, and regulators, and the compatibility of the standards and data. Ultimately, it depends on your needs, preferences, and circumstances.

6 How to learn more about ASTM and ISO

ASTM and ISO are constantly updating and publishing new standards and information, so if you want to learn more about materials testing, there are several steps you can take. Visiting the official websites of ASTM or ISO and browsing their catalogs, databases, and publications is a great place to start. You can also join the membership or committees of ASTM or ISO and participate in the development and review of standards. Attending the training, workshops, webinars, or conferences offered by ASTM or ISO or their affiliates is another option. You could also consult experts, consultants, or laboratories that specialize in ASTM or ISO standards. Finally, reading articles, books, journals, or blogs that discuss ASTM or ISO standards can be beneficial.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?