MaTestLab > Test Standards > ASTM E562 Determining Volume Fraction by Systematic Manual Point Count
Last updated 4th May 2025
ASTM E562 Determining Volume Fraction by Systematic Manual Point Count
ASTM E562 is a standardized test method used to determine the volume fraction of various phases within a material's microstructure using systematic manual point counting. This quantitative analysis provides valuable information for material characterization, quality control, and research purposes in a wide range of industries, including metallurgy, ceramics, and composites. ASTM E562 is based upon the stereological principle that a grid with a number of regularly arrayed points, when systematically placed over an image of a two-dimensional section through the microstructure, can provide, an unbiased statistical estimation of the volume fraction of an identifiable constituent or phase. This estimation is achieved after a representative number of placements on different fields.
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ASTM E562 Introduction
ASTM E562 outlines a systematic and unbiased approach for estimating the volume fraction of different phases present in a material’s microstructure. This method is widely used in the field of materials science and engineering to understand the distribution and composition of phases within a material, aiding in the assessment of its mechanical properties, performance, and suitability for specific applications.
The ASTM E562 test method is based upon the stereological principle that a grid with a number of regularly arrayed points, when systematically placed over an image of a two-dimensional section through the microstructure, can provide, an unbiased statistical estimation of the volume fraction of an identifiable constituent or phase. This estimation is achieved after a representative number of placements on different fields. With regard to effort, bias, and simplicity, this test method turns out to be superior to the manual methods.
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Volume fraction analysis is essential for understanding the microstructural characteristics of materials revealing the distribution and proportion of phases, such as grains, phases, inclusions, and voids, which significantly influence a material’s properties and behavior.
ASTM E562Test Method
The ASTM E562 test method involves the systematic manual point counting of a representative microstructural specimen using a grid overlay. The test is conducted in the following steps:
Grid Overlay
A grid overlay with a defined number of points is placed over the specimen’s view field. The grid can have a specific pattern and the number of points is adjusted based on the material’s microstructural complexity.
Systematic Point Counting
The analyst follows a systematic procedure to count the number of points falling on each phase of interest. Each time a point falls on a particular phase, it is recorded and tallied.
ASTM E562Equipment and Sample Preparation
Specimen details
E562 specimens are rectangular bars or plaques made from the plastic material of interest.
Specimen dimensions
The ASTM E562 standard does not specify a standard specimen size, as it depends on the material type, microstructural complexity, and the microscope’s capabilities.
Specimen preparation
To perform the analysis, a representative microstructural specimen is carefully prepared and polished to reveal the phases of interest.
E562 Test Method Results and Interpretation
In ASTM E562, the volume fraction of each phase is calculated by dividing the total number of points counted for that phase by the total number of points in the grid overlay. The volume fraction is typically expressed as a percentage or fraction.
Tests Related to E562
ASTM E3 – Standard Guide for Preparation of Metallographic Specimens is a related standard.
Use of E562 in Various Industries
It is the basis for most applications within the metallurgy, composite and materials science industries when needing to determine the quantitative characterization of microstructural phases in a material, ensuring material performance under applied load and quality standards with durability, strength, and performance.
Materials Commonly Tested with ASTM E562
This standard is used to assess metals, ceramics, and composite materials like steel, ceramics, and polymer composites. It measures ferrite and pearlite phase volume percentage, thermal resistance, and precise filler quantification.
Common Challenges and Troubleshooting in ASTM E562 Testing
Some phase boundaries cannot be determined precisely using this standard. For instance, when dealing with complicated materials, for which the point counts are inconsistent. A troubleshooting approach will also involve optimizing sample preparation and the use of accurate techniques in polishing the sample. Also, the counting grids have to be calibrated for repeated measurements.
Safety and Best Practices in ASTM E562 Testing
The standard requires chemical and equipment handling, proper ventilation, PPE use, and calibration of microscopes to be followed. Lab training constantly, careful documentation and phase identification are some techniques that would help to diminish the likelihood of errors in reproducibility.
Importance of ASTM E562
The standard is important in offering a very accurate determination of volume fraction of the phases in a material, hence ensuring better quality control in various sectors. This manual counting reproducible method provides microstructural phase distribution affecting the properties and performance of materials with respect to the reliability and structural integrity of products.
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Please contact us for a detailed quote for your astm e562 testing needs. Cost incurred to carry out different astm e562 testing methodology depends on the type of raw material; number of samples, coupons, or specimens; test conditions, turn around time etc. Costs of some ASTM testing methods start from $100 and the final value depends upon the factors listed above. Please contact us for the best and latest prices.
How many samples are required for astm e562?
The required number of samples or specimens should comply with the procedure given in the astm e562 standard. However, the MaTestLab operations team can assist you for your special requirements once you share your testing details with us.
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MaTestLab has a vast testing laboratory network, hence we bring you the best testing facilities in a cost-effective way. We offer considerable discounts (15-20%) to our returning customers based on test volume and frequency.
How many days will it take to complete the astm e562 test?
The turnaround time for astm e562 test methodology depends upon the test procedure mentioned in the standard test document. However, we at MaTestLab understand your research requirements and hence try to get your test completed within the least possible time.
Where can I get the astm e562 tested?
You can share your astm e562 testing requirements with MaTestLab. MaTestLab has a vast network of material testing laboratories, spread across the USA and Canada. We support your all material testing needs ranging from specific astm e562 test to various testing techniques.
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