ASTM E 213 : 1998

1.1 This practice covers a procedure for detecting discontinuities in metal pipe and tubing using pulse-reflection ultrasonic contact or immersion angle beam techniques. Artificial discontinuities consisting of longitudinal reference notches are employed as the primary means of calibrating the ultrasonic system. If transverse as well as longitudinal examination is desired, a procedure for employing transverse notches is provided.

1.2 This practice is intended for use with tubular products having outside diameters approximately 1/2 in. (12.7 mm) and larger, provided that the examination parameters comply with and satisfy the requirements of Section 12. These procedures have been used successfully for smaller sizes, however, and may be specified upon contractural agreement between the using parties.

Note 1-Exercise caution when examining pipe or tubes near or below the 1/2-in. specified limit. Certain combinations of search unit size, frequency, thin wall thicknesses, and small diameters could cause generation of unwanted sound waves that may produce erroneous test results.

1.3 This practice does not establish acceptance criteria; they must be specified by the using party or parties.

1.4 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The SI equivalents are in parentheses and may be approximate.

1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety problems, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.