Grain size determination according to ASTM E112 for any type of alloy
You want to determine the grain size of your metallic materials according to ASTM standard E112
What is ASTM E112?
Firstly, ASTM E112 describes standardised test methods for the determination of mean grain size in metallic materials.
These methods include the mean grain size measurement, the comparison procedure, the planimetric procedure and the intercept procedures.
Because these methods of grain size determination are based solely on geometric considerations, they are suitable for metals and metal alloys.
The importance of grain size analysis in metallurgy
Grain size analysis is a fundamental step in metallurgical characterization. The size of the grains directly influences the mechanical performance of a metal, including its strength, ductility, and toughness. A finer grain structure generally improves the resistance of the material, making this analysis essential for validating manufacturing processes such as heat treatments or forging.
ASTM E112: analysis by Optical Microscope
ASTM E112 is directly related to optical microscopy, as it relies on microscopic observation to determine the average grain size in a metallic material.
FILAB is therefore able to offer you its E112 grain size determination services for any type of alloy, thanks to its state-of-the-art analytical facilities and teams of experts.
Grain size analysis for compliance and reliability
Carrying out a grain size analysis ensures that your metal parts comply with technical specifications and international regulatory standards. This investigation helps manufacturers investigate material failures and understand the relationship between the internal microstructure and the physical properties of the component.
FILAB can determine the grain size according to ASTM E112 for any type of alloy
Why choose FILAB for ASTM E112 analysis?
In order to support manufacturers in the development and quality control of their products, in line with regulatory developments, the FILAB laboratory provides state-of-the-art analytical equipment, enabling grain size to be determined in accordance with ASTM E112 for all types of alloy.
The FILAB laboratory is accredited ISO 17025 by COFRAC for the analysis of metal grain size according to ASTM E112 and ISO 643
Complementary techniques for microstructure study
Beyond standard optical microscopy, FILAB can combine grain size analysis with other advanced methods to provide a comprehensive metallurgical investigation:
- Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM): for high-resolution imaging of grain boundaries and phases.
- EDX Analysis: to identify chemical compositions or inclusions at the grain level.
- Microhardness testing: to evaluate the mechanical resistance related to specific grain areas.
Our services
Metallographic examination of metals
Weld analysis on metals
Study of fracture surfaces on metals
Study of ageing (corrosion, surface alteration, etc.) on metals
Thickness measurement of metals
Study of corrosion resistance on metals
Analysis and characterization of metals (roughness, defects, etc.)
Analysis Alloy composition
Our accreditations
The FILAB laboratory is accredited by COFRAC (French Accreditation Committee) – Laboratories section – for its departments in Chemistry, Metallurgy, Organic Chemistry, Chemical Expertise, Materials Expertise, and Environment in the following fields:
✔️ Physicochemical analysis of metallic materials
✔️ Physicochemical analysis of cosmetic and pharmaceutical products
✔️ Physicochemical analysis of medical devices, medical equipment, and chemical and biological products
Scope available No. 1-1793
This Nadcap accreditation notably covers:
✔️ Chemical analysis (ICP-OES) of critical metallic alloys (Al, Fe, Ni, Ti)
✔️ Metallography
An international recognition that confirms our commitment to quality and reliability for the most demanding applications, particularly in the aerospace sector.
Our FAQ
Grain size analysis is a laboratory testing method used to characterize the microstructure of metals. It measures the average dimensions of the crystalline grains within a material, which is a key indicator of its mechanical performance.
ASTM E112 is the international reference standard for determining average grain size. It provides a standardized methodology (comparison, planimetric, or intercept) to ensure that results are accurate, reproducible, and comparable across the global supply chain.
FILAB can perform grain size analysis on a wide variety of metal samples, including raw materials, finished parts, alloys, and small fragments as part of a metallurgical investigation. This includes steels, aluminum, titanium, and nickel alloys.
It is recommended during:
- Material selection and product development.
- Quality control of incoming materials to verify supplier compliance.
- Failure analysis to investigate if a fracture or defect is related to an abnormal grain structure.
- Manufacturing process validation after heat treatments.
While both standards focus on grain size analysis, ISO 643 is more commonly used in European contexts, whereas ASTM E112 is the primary standard in North America and international trade. FILAB is accredited for both, ensuring your reports meet all global requirements.
To obtain a quote, you can contact our team via our contact form, by phone, or by email.
Simply tell us your requirements (type of material, desired analysis, applicable standards, urgency, quantity of samples, etc.). We will then send you a personalized technical and pricing proposal within 24-48 hours.
Turnaround times vary depending on the nature of the analysis and the complexity of the expert assessment project.
However, FILAB is committed to providing fast turnaround times tailored to your industrial constraints and urgent needs.
