ASTM C170/C170M-24a PDF

Full title and description

ASTM C170/C170M-24a — Standard Test Method for Compressive Strength of Dimension Stone. This standard specifies procedures for sampling, preparing specimens, and determining the compressive strength of dimension stone in both SI and inch‑pound units for comparison and quality assessment of natural dimension stone products.

Abstract

This test method describes how to obtain representative samples of dimension stone, prepare compression specimens, and perform compressive loading to failure to determine compressive strength. The standard provides requirements for units (SI and inch‑pound used separately), test apparatus alignment and bearing blocks, loading rates, and reporting of results. It is intended as a comparative test useful for characterizing and comparing stones of the same type.

General information

• Status: Active.
• Publication date: Approved / implemented April 1, 2024 (designated C170/C170M-24a).
• Publisher: ASTM International.
• ICS / categories: 91.100.15 (Mineral materials and products / Dimension stone).
• Edition / version: C170/C170M-24a (revises prior C170/C170M‑23 edition).
• Number of pages: 4 pages.

Scope

This standard covers the sampling, specimen preparation, and determination of the compressive strength of dimension stone. Values are reported in either SI or inch‑pound units (each system to be used independently). The method addresses apparatus and alignment requirements, test rates, and reporting but does not replace project‑specific specifications or safety practices required by users.

Key topics and requirements

• Sampling guidelines to obtain representative specimens of the stone type under evaluation.
• Specimen preparation: geometry, surface finish, and dimensional tolerances for compression testing.
• Test apparatus and alignment: requirements for testing machines, spherical bearing blocks, and alignment to ensure uniform loading.
• Loading rate and procedure: specified uniform loading rates and procedures to apply load until failure and record peak load.
• Units and reporting: statements on SI and inch‑pound units being independent and reporting of compressive strength values, specimen orientation, and test conditions.
• Limitations and safety note: the standard does not address all safety concerns — users must follow appropriate health and safety practices.

Typical use and users

Used by stone quarries, material testing laboratories, stone fabricators, architects, engineers, and quality control personnel to characterize compressive strength of dimension stone, compare materials, and verify compliance with project or specification requirements. Laboratories performing stone testing often run C170 alongside complementary tests such as absorption, density, and flexural strength.

Related standards

Commonly referenced and complementary standards for dimension stone testing include ASTM C97 (absorption and bulk specific gravity), ASTM C99 (modulus of rupture), ASTM C880 (flexural strength), ASTM C1352/C1353 (modulus/abrasion), and ASTM C666 (freeze‑thaw resistance). This edition revises earlier C170/C170M revisions (for example the –23 and earlier editions).

Keywords

compressive strength; dimension stone; specimen preparation; testing machine; spherical bearing block; SI units; inch‑pound units; ASTM C170; C170/C170M‑24a.

FAQ

Q: What is this standard?

A: ASTM C170/C170M‑24a is the ASTM standard test method that specifies how to sample, prepare, and test dimension stone specimens to determine compressive strength.

Q: What does it cover?

A: It covers specimen selection, preparation, testing apparatus and alignment, loading rates, units (SI and inch‑pound used independently), and reporting of compressive strength results. It is a comparative test method useful for characterizing and comparing stones of the same type.

Q: Who typically uses it?

A: Quarries, stone fabricators, independent materials testing laboratories, architects and engineers, and quality managers use the standard to verify material properties and to support specifications and acceptance decisions.

Q: Is it current or superseded?

A: The C170/C170M‑24a edition is the current active edition (approved/implemented in 2024) and supersedes prior editions such as the –23 revision. Users should confirm they are using the latest edition for contractual or regulatory work.

Q: Is it part of a series?

A: Yes — C170/C170M is part of the body of ASTM standards on dimension stone and is commonly used together with related test methods and specifications (for example C97, C99, C880, and other C‑series dimension stone standards).

Q: What are the key keywords?

A: Key keywords include compressive strength, dimension stone, specimen preparation, testing apparatus, SI units, inch‑pound units, and ASTM C170/C170M‑24a.