This practice² covers the standards and procedures for the pulse-echo ultrasonic examination of heat-treated carbon, low-alloy, and martensitic stainless steel castings. 

This practice is to be used whenever the inquiry, contract, order, or specification states that castings are to be subjected to ultrasonic examination in accordance with Practice A609/A 609M. 

This practice contains two procedures. Procedure A is the original A609/A609M practice and requires calibration using a series of test blocks containing flat bottomed holes. It also provides supplementary requirements for angle beam testing. Procedure B requires calibration using a back wall reflection from a series of solid calibration blocks.

NOTE 1—Ultrasonic examination and radiography are not directly comparable. This examination technique is intended to complement Guide E94 in the detection of discontinuities. 

Supplementary requirements of an optional nature are provided for use at the option of the purchaser. The supplementary requirements shall apply only when specified individually by the purchaser in the purchase order or contract. 

The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard. 

Within the text, the SI units are shown in brackets. 

This practice is expressed in both inch-pound units and SI units; however, unless the purchase order or contract specifies the applicable M specification designation (SI units), the inch-pound units shall apply.

This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

² For ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code applications, see related Specification SA-609 of Section II of that Code.

*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard.