A new standard approved by ASTM International Committee B07 on Light Metals and Alloys provides an outline for designers, casting purchasers, casting producers and technical societies on how to do business when purchasing squeeze, thixocast or rheocast parts.

The new standard, B969, Specification for Aluminum-Alloy Castings Produced by the Squeeze Casting, Thixocast and Rheocast Semi-Solid Casting Processes, was developed by Subcommittee B07.01 on Aluminum Alloy Ingots and Castings.

According to Brian Cochran, president, Brian P. Cochran and Associates LLC, and chairman of B07.01, B969 defines responsibilities for producers and purchaser, the type of testing to be conducted on parts and how it is to be conducted.

Cochran says that B07.01 invites interested parties to help develop other standards for metal matrix composites and lost foam castings. The subcommittee is particularly interested in input from casting producers.

To purchase ASTM standards, visit www.astm.org and search by the standard designation number, or contact ASTM Customer Relations (phone: 610-832-9585; https://www.astm.org/contact/).  ASTM International welcomes and encourages participation in the development of its standards. For more information on becoming an ASTM member, visit www.astm.org/JOIN.

ASTM Committee B07 Next Meeting: May 17-19, May committee week, St. Louis, Mo.
Technical Contact: Brian Cochran, Brian P. Cochran & Associates, Wabash, Ind., Phone: 260-563-2270, brian@bpcochranandassoc.com
ASTM Staff Contact: Rick Lake, Phone: 610-832-9689; rlake@astm.org
ASTM PR Contact: Barbara Schindler, Phone: 610-832-9603; bschindl@astm.org

Release #8491/Feb2010