ASTM was originally known as the American Society of the International Association for Testing and Materials when it was created in 1898 by Pennsylvania Railroad engineers and scientists. Its purpose was to address and prevent the frequent rail breaks that were plaguing the industry by developing standards that would ensure higher quality rail products.
Today, the American Society for Testing and Materials is known as ASTM International. It consists of over 30,000 members that include product users, producers, consumers, academics, and consultants. ASTM is still headquartered in Pennsylvania, but it also has offices throughout the world that are located in Belgium, Canada, China, and Mexico, as well as one other domestic office in Washington DC.
ASTM develops and publishes technical standards for many different industries with the goal of enhancing performance and safety over a wide range of products, materials, systems, and services. Thousands of ASTM standards are upheld all over the world, each with their own unique number. Each standard falls into a variety of categories which include:
Not only does ASTM create dependable standards, the society also offers technical training programs, proficiency testing, and inter-laboratory crosscheck programs.
Continuing education and online training programs are available for industries and government employees. Courses can include plastics, coal, statistics, glass, and more. Self-guided training courses are available for QA/QC technicians who work with cement, concrete strength training, and who conduct aggregate testing. On-site training is also available, as are certification programs that cover a wide variety of products, materials, systems, and services in keeping with third party compliance standards.
Laboratories can assess their performance with proficiency testing. These ASTM tests are ideal for aromatic hydrocarbons, petroleum products, engine coolant, textile testing, and more.
The Annual Book of ASTM Standards:
Each year, the ASTM publishes the Annual Book of ASTM Standards. The book addresses many different products, services, and industries that include:
Because the ASTM covers so many industries, it is divided into multiple volumes. A total of 143 technical writing committees work on the standards inside the book each year, developing those standards in accordance with the guidelines of the World Trade Organization.
All UPI Laboratories Europe BV calibration materials meet the requirements of the relevant ASTM standards.
Contact ASTM:
ASTM Headquarters
100 Barr Harbor Drive
P.O. Box C700
West Conshohocken, PA
USA