ASTM E159 Hydrogen Loss Testing for Metal Powders (Co, Cu, W, Fe)
ASTM E159 test method is used to determine the mass of hydrogen reducible constituents such as oxygen in metals like cobalt, copper, iron, and tungsten.
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- Overview
- Scope, Applications, and Benefits
- Test Process
- Specifications
- Instrumentation
- Results and Deliverables
Overview
ASTM E159 provides a test method for determining the mass loss of metal powders when heated in a reducing gas atmosphere, typically hydrogen. The mass loss indicates the removal of surface oxides, moisture, and other volatile impurities.
This standard is widely used to assess the purity and reduction behavior of metal powders used in powder metallurgy and related applications.
Scope, Applications, and Benefits
Scope
ASTM E159 focuses on measuring the mass loss of metal powders when exposed to hydrogen at elevated temperatures. It helps evaluate the extent of oxide reduction and impurity removal.
The test evaluates:
- Mass loss due to reduction
- Presence of oxides and impurities
- Reduction behavior of metal powders
- Material purity
- Suitability for powder metallurgy processes
Applications
- Powder metallurgy
- Metal powder manufacturing
- Sintering processes
- Quality control laboratories
- Metallurgical research
Benefits
- Ensures high powder purity
- Improves sintering performance
- Supports process optimization
- Enables comparison of powder quality
- Enhances material consistency
Test Process
Sample Preparation
Metal powder sample is weighed and prepared.
1Heating in Hydrogen
Sample is heated in a hydrogen atmosphere.
2Mass Measurement
Mass before and after heating is recorded.
3Data Recording & Evaluation
Loss of mass is calculated and analyzed.Data Recording & Evaluation
4Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Applicable Materials | Cobalt, copper, tungsten, iron powders |
| Atmosphere | Hydrogen gas |
| Temperature Range | Typically 800°C to 1000°C |
| Test Duration | Approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour |
| Measured Outputs | Mass loss (%) |
Instrumentation Used for Testing
- Tube furnace
- Hydrogen gas supply system
- Analytical balance
- Sample boats or crucibles
- Gas flow control system
- Data acquisition system
Results and Deliverables
- Mass loss percentage
- Reduction behavior analysis
- Purity assessment
- Test condition summary
- ASTM compliance report
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Frequently Asked Questions
ASTM E159 is a standard test method used to determine loss of mass of metal powders in a reducing hydrogen atmosphere, indicating oxygen or oxide content present in powders.
ASTM E159 is important because oxide content affects sintering, mechanical properties, and performance, making it essential for quality control in powder metallurgy and manufacturing processes.
ASTM E159 involves heating powder in a hydrogen atmosphere, reducing oxides to metal and releasing oxygen as water vapor, resulting in measurable mass loss.
ASTM E159 requires a controlled furnace, hydrogen gas supply, sample holders, analytical balance, and temperature control system for precise measurement.
Results are reported as percentage mass loss, indicating oxide content and helping assess powder purity, processing behavior, and suitability for metallurgical applications.
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