1.1 These standard practices cover the specifications for those uniaxially compacted test specimens that are used in ASTM standards, the procedures for producing and preparing these test specimens, and reference the applicable standards.

1.2 Basic tool design and engineering information regarding the tooling that is required to compact the test specimens and machining blanks are contained in the annexes.

1.3 This standard is intended to be a comprehensive one-source document that can be referenced by ASTM test methods that utilize PM test specimens and in ASTM PM material specifications that contain the engineering data obtained from these test specimens.

1.4 These practices are not applicable to metal powder test specimens that are produced by other processes such as cold isostatic pressing (CIP), hot isostatic pressing (HIP), powder forging (PF) or metal injection molding (MIM). They do not pertain to cemented carbide materials.

1.5 Detailed information on PM presses, compacting tooling and sintering furnaces, their design, manufacture and use are not within the scope of these practices.

1.6 Test specimen and die cavity dimensions shown in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard and are applicable to the referenced ASTM test methods and material specifications. Values in SI units are shown in parentheses and result from conversion in accordance with IEEE/ASTM Standard SI 10. They may be approximate and are only for information.

1.7 This standard may involve hazardous materials, operations, and equipment. This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, 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.