ASTM B312-96(2002) - 10.9.1996
 
Significance and Use

The test for green strength of a compacted metal powder is useful as a:

5.1.1 Method to relate the resistance of a pressed compact to breakage or damage due to handling.

5.1.2 Means of quality comparison of metal powder, lot to lot.

5.1.3 Method of determining the effect of additions to a base powder.

Significant variations in green strength will occur if the density tolerance of the pressed bar is exceeded.

 
1. Scope

1.1 This test method covers determination of the green strength of unsintered compacted metal powder specimens by subjecting them to a uniformly increasing transverse loading under controlled conditions. The term green strength, as used herein, defines the stress, calculated from the flexure formula, required to break a specimen as a simple beam supported near the ends and applying the force midway between the fixed line center of the supports.

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

1.3 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.

 
2. Referenced Documents

B528-16(2026)

Standard Test Method for Transverse Rupture Strength of Powder Metallurgy (PM) Specimens

B215-20(2025)

Standard Practices for Sampling Metal Powders

B925-15(2022)

Standard Practices for Production and Preparation of Powder Metallurgy (PM) Test Specimens

B962-23

Standard Test Methods for Density of Compacted or Sintered Powder Metallurgy (PM) Products Using Archimedes’ Principle

E691-23

Standard Practice for Conducting an Interlaboratory Study to Determine the Precision of a Test Method

B243-26a

Standard Terminology of Powder Metallurgy (Includes all amendments and changes 6/8/2026).