Overview
ISO 28279:2010 is an International Standard developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) that specifies a precise method for determining the level of cleanliness of sintered metal parts produced through powder metallurgy (PM). The standard focuses on identifying and measuring surface contamination, a critical factor affecting the quality and performance of PM components. This measurement involves quantifying the amount and analyzing the nature of contaminants found on the surface of PM parts.
The standard provides a systematic approach to rinsing, filtering, drying, and analyzing particles contaminating PM parts, thereby ensuring consistent and reliable cleanliness evaluation. It plays a vital role in quality control and assurance processes within the powder metallurgy industry.
Key Topics
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Scope and Purpose
ISO 28279:2010 defines the procedure for determining surface contamination on PM parts to assess their cleanliness.
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Sampling and Testing Methodology
The standard uses a pressure rinsing technique with filtered solvent (typically white spirit) and subsequent filtration through fine mesh polyester or polyamide filters to collect contaminants.
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Analytical Procedure
Contaminants are captured on 5 µm filters, dried, weighed with high precision balances, and examined under a stereomicroscope or microscope with at least ×10 magnification to determine particle size and nature.
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Apparatus Required
Essential equipment includes filter funnels, vacuum pumps, analytical balances, drying ovens, desiccators, pressure guns for solvent rinsing, and microscopes.
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Calculation of Contamination Levels
The amount of contaminant per part (mg/part) is calculated based on the weight difference of the filter before and after filtration, considering the number of parts tested.
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Reporting Guidelines
Test reports must reference ISO 28279:2010, specify part designation, contamination amount, contaminant size, and type.
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Flexibility of Method
The standard notes that variations concerning filter mesh size, solvent type, or extraction methods must be mutually agreed upon by involved parties, with special provisions for ultrasonic extraction for vacuum or high-pressure applications.
Applications
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Quality Control in Powder Metallurgy
Ensuring PM parts meet cleanliness requirements is essential to avoid failures due to contamination-induced defects.
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Product Certification and Compliance
ISO 28279:2010 provides an internationally recognized test method for certifying cleanliness levels of sintered metal components.
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Failure Analysis and Process Improvement
Identifying contaminant nature and quantity aids manufacturers in improving powder handling, processing environments, and post-manufacture treatments.
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Industrial Sectors
The standard finds applications in automotive, aerospace, electronics, and other industries where powder metallurgy components are utilized.
Related Standards
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ISO/TC 119 Series
ISO 28279:2010 is part of the broader ISO technical committee 119 standards on powder metallurgy, focusing on sampling and testing methods for sintered metal materials.
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ISO 4490:2017
Addresses determination of density and open porosity for sintered metals, complementing surface cleanliness analysis.
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ISO 6579
Provides guidelines for testing metallurgy parts for other quality parameters, such as mechanical properties.
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Industry-Specific Standards
Depending on the application, other standards defining allowable contaminant limits or additional testing procedures may apply.
Keywords: ISO 28279, powder metallurgy, sintered metal parts, surface contamination, cleanliness determination, PM parts testing, filtration, stereomicroscope analysis, powder metallurgy quality control, sintered metal materials, contamination measurement, industrial standards.