ASTM G46: Pitting Corrosion Examination Testing Services
ASTM G46 explains how to choose from a variety of ways for examining and evaluating pitted metals. Both nondestructive and destructive methods are used in these operations. The values stated in SI should be considered as standard.

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- Overview
- Scope, Applications, and Benefits
- Test Process
- Specifications
- Instrumentation
- Results and Deliverables
What Is ASTM G46 Pitting Corrosion Examination?
ASTM G46 is used to examine and evaluate pitting corrosion in metallic materials. The test provides methods for identifying, measuring, and characterizing pits formed on metal surfaces due to localized corrosion.
This method is widely applied in corrosion studies, failure analysis, and material performance evaluation. It helps engineers assess the severity of pitting, understand corrosion mechanisms, and determine the suitability of materials for corrosive environments.
Applications and Benefits of ASTM G46 Pitting Corrosion Examination Testing
Scope
ASTM G46 evaluates pitting corrosion by providing procedures to measure pit depth, density, and distribution on metal surfaces. The test enables quantitative and qualitative assessment of localized corrosion damage.
ASTM G46 evaluates:
- Depth of corrosion pits on metal surfaces
- Density and distribution of pits
- Severity of localized corrosion damage
- Surface condition after corrosion exposure
- Corrosion behavior of metallic materials
Applications
- Corrosion testing of metals and alloys
- Oil and gas industry components
- Marine and offshore structures
- Chemical processing equipment
- Aerospace and automotive materials
- Failure analysis and material evaluation
Benefits
- Provides a standardized evaluation of pitting corrosion
- Helps assess the severity of localized corrosion damage
- Supports material selection for corrosive environments
- Assists in failure analysis and root cause investigation
- Enables comparison of corrosion resistance between materials
Our ASTM G46 Testing Procedure
Sample Preparation
Corroded specimens are cleaned to remove corrosion products without altering pit geometry.
1Surface Examination
The surface is visually and microscopically examined to identify pits.
2Pit Measurement
Pit depth, size, and distribution are measured using appropriate techniques.
3Data Recording & Evaluation
The measured data is analyzed to assess pitting severity and corrosion behavior.
4ASTM G46 Test Parameters and Requirements
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Applicable Materials | Metals and alloys |
| Pit Depth Range | ~1 µm to 5 mm |
| Pit Diameter Range | ~10 µm to 10 mm |
| Measurement Resolution | Up to 0.1 µm (microscopy/profilometry) |
| Magnification Range | 10× to 500× |
| Evaluation Criteria | Pit depth, density (pits/cm²), and distribution |
- Optical microscope (10×–500×)
- Surface profilometer (resolution up to 0.1 µm)
- Measuring microscope or depth gauge
- Sample cleaning equipment (chemical/ultrasonic)
- Image analysis software
- Data acquisition system
Equipment and Instrumentation Used for ASTM G46 Testing
What You Receive: Test Report, Data, and Certification
- Pit depth and diameter measurements
- Pit density (pits/cm²) data
- Corrosion severity classification
- Surface morphology analysis
- Test condition summary
- ASTM compliance report
ASTM G46 Pitting Corrosion Examination FAQs
ASTM G46 includes pit depth measurement, pit density, pit distribution, surface area affected, and metallographic examination, evaluating severity of pitting corrosion and providing quantitative and qualitative assessment of localized corrosion damage.
ASTM G46 uses visual inspection, optical microscopy, profilometry, and metallographic techniques to measure pit characteristics and assess corrosion damage on metal surfaces.
ASTM G46 is commonly applied to metals and alloys such as stainless steels, aluminum alloys, and other corrosion-resistant materials exposed to aggressive environments.
ASTM G46 evaluates pit size, depth, density, and distribution, providing data to assess corrosion severity and predict potential impact on structural integrity.
ASTM G46 evaluates pitting corrosion after exposure and does not predict initiation mechanisms, requiring additional testing to understand environmental factors and long-term corrosion behavior.
Why Choose Infinita Lab for Pitting Corrosion Examination Testing
At the core of this breadth is our network of 2,000+ accredited laboratories across the USA, offering access to over 10,000 testing methods and analytical services. From advanced materials characterization (SEM, TEM, RBS, XPS) to mechanical, chemical, environmental, biological, and standardized ASTM/ISO-compliant testing, we deliver unmatched flexibility, specialization, and scale. You are never limited by geography, facility, or methodology — Infinita Lab connects you to the right expertise and testing solution, every time.
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