ASTM E1920

ASTM E1920 is the ASTM standard for the Standard Guide for Metallographic Preparation of Thermal Sprayed Coatings, providing a focused reference for preparing coated specimens for examination. It addresses the metallographic preparation process used to reveal the structure of thermal sprayed coatings and their interfaces, helping users obtain more consistent and interpretable results. For laboratories, manufacturers, and quality teams, this guide supports better sample preparation practices and more reliable evaluation of coating condition.

ASTM E1920 standard overview

The ASTM E1920 standard guide offers direction for metallographic preparation steps applied to thermal sprayed coatings. Its purpose is to help users prepare specimens in a way that preserves the coating structure and makes it suitable for microscopic examination. Because thermal sprayed coatings can have distinct layers, interfaces, and surface characteristics, controlled preparation is important for meaningful analysis. This guide is a practical technical document for anyone needing repeatable preparation methods that support evaluation and comparison of coated materials.

Where is ASTM E1920 used?

ASTM E1920 is commonly used in metallography and laboratory workflows where thermal sprayed coatings must be sectioned, mounted, polished, and examined. It is relevant to organizations working with coated parts that require microscopic assessment of coating integrity, bonding, or cross-sectional features. The standard may be used in production quality control, failure analysis, research, and incoming or outgoing inspection when thermal spray results need to be reviewed in a consistent way.

Practical importance of ASTM E1920

The practical value of ASTM E1920 lies in improving consistency during specimen preparation, which can directly affect the quality of metallographic observations. When preparation is controlled, users can reduce the risk of distortion, pull-out, or other artifacts that may obscure coating details. That makes the guide useful for compliance efforts, comparative testing, procurement verification, and overall product evaluation. It helps teams apply a common approach when assessing thermal sprayed coatings for technical acceptance.

• Metallographic preparation guidance
• Thermal sprayed coating specimens
• Cross-sectional examination support
• Quality control and evaluation use
• Consistent laboratory preparation practices