Steel and alloys are common materials used in modern engineering, and most of them are represented by a unique product code, which is composed of a series of digits and letters that convey the exact properties of the steel or alloy. This article will explain the product code standard for steel and alloy products.
The product code for steel and alloy products is generally divided into several parts. The first three digits indicate the material group, the fourth and fifth digits indicate the country of origin of the material, the sixth and seventh digits indicate the type of material, and the last two digits indicate the grade of the alloy.
For example, the product code of a titanium alloy is TA1. The first two digits– “T” and “A”– indicate that it is titanium alloy. The fourth and fifth digits – “1”– indicate that it is made in America. The sixth and seventh digits – “0” and “1”– indicate that it is a general purpose alloy. Finally, the last two digits – “00” indicate that it is of grade 0.
In addition to the product code, some steel and alloy products also have other codes to indicate their exact properties. For instance, a stainless steel product can be marked with a code such as “316L” to specify its alloying elements. 316L stands for chromium- nickel- molybdenum- silicon steel, and the “L” indicates that the steel is a low carbon variant of the 316 grade.
There are several organizations that are responsible for setting the standards for steel and alloy product codes. The American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI) sets the standards for steel product codes. The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) sets the standards for alloy product codes.
When buying steel or alloy products, it is important to check the product code to ensure that it matches the material or alloy specified in the purchase order. It is also important to check for other codes that may be present to ensure that the exact properties of the product are specified. By doing so, buyers can avoid purchasing the wrong material or alloy for their applications.
In conclusion, it is important to understand the product code standard for steel and alloy products. The product code indicates the material group, the country of origin of the material, the type of material and the grade of the alloy. It is also important to check for other codes that may be present to ensure that the exact properties of the product are specified. With this information, buyers can avoid purchasing the wrong material or alloy for their applications.
