ASTM E471 is a standard test method for obtaining the char density profile of ablative materials by machining and weighing. This technique involves measuring, machining, and weighing a sample of a specific size to determine its density. Therefore, the sample must be strong enough to withstand all techniques used. The result is expressed in SI units.
ASTM E 471 Standard Test Method for Obtaining Char Density Profile of Ablative Materials by Machining and Weighing
What is ASTM E471?
What is the Scope of ASTM E471?
ASTM E 471 is a highly preferred method in measuring the density profile of ablative materials. This technique can be highly efficient if the char can be machined off in a plane parallel to the char-virgin material, and the total thickness of the char and degradation zone combined must be larger than the machining thicknesses required.
- This test method determines the char density profile of a charred ablator and it is used with the following limitations: (a) The local surface imperfections are removed and the char is machined off in a plane parallel to the char-virgin substance interface prior to the density profiles detrmination, (b) The char must be strong enough to withstand the machining and handling techniques employed, (c ) The material need to have orderly density variations. The total given thickness of the char and degradation zone need to be greater than the required machining thickness.
- The values stated in SI units are considered standard.
ASTM E471 Testing Procedure and Requirements
ASTM E 471 involves successive measuring, machining, and weighing a sample of a known size. Then the density of the sample is obtained with machining. The charred sample selected should be taken from a representative section of the ablated specimen where the environmental conditions are well known and where the surface is parallel to the char-virgin material interface. A typical specimen size should be 12.7 by 12.7 mm.
ASTM E471 Result Analysis and Interpretation
Updated on August 29, 2026
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