BETA
Disclaimer: This tool is currently in beta. Features are actively being developed and tested, so you may encounter minor bugs or incomplete functionality.

NDT Material Property Database

Material Database

Select a material to view its comprehensive NDT properties.

Values provided are typical approximations intended for NDT setup and reference. Always verify with manufacturer specifications or perform field calibration prior to critical inspections.

Carbon Steel (1020) Ferrous Metal

Physical Properties

Density
- g/cm³
Young's Modulus
- GPa
Poisson Ratio
-
Hardness
-
Tensile Strength
- MPa
Yield Strength
- MPa
Melting Point
- °C

Ultrasonic Properties

Longitudinal Velocity
- m/s
Shear Velocity
- m/s
Surface Velocity (Rayleigh)
- m/s
Acoustic Impedance
- MRayl
Rec. Frequency Range
- MHz
Attenuation Rating
-

Eddy Current Properties

Electrical Conductivity
- % IACS
Resistivity
- µΩ·cm
Rel. Mag. Permeability
- µᵣ

Thermal Properties

Thermal Expansion
- µm/m·°C
Thermal Conductivity
- W/m·K
Specific Heat
- J/kg·K

Practical NDT Information

Magnetic? -
Weldable? -
Heat Treatable? -
Corrosion Res. -
Common Industries
-
Typical Applications
-

Why Material Properties Matter

Selecting the correct material properties is essential for accurate NDT calculations. Sound velocity, density, conductivity and magnetic permeability all influence how inspection equipment performs. Using incorrect material data can result in inaccurate thickness measurements, incorrect beam angles and unreliable inspection results.

Which NDT Methods Work Best?

Material Recommended Methods
Carbon SteelUT, MT, RT, PT, ET
Stainless SteelUT, PT, RT, ET
AluminiumUT, PT, ET, RT
Cast IronUT, MT
CopperET, UT
TitaniumUT, PT
PlasticsUT
CompositesUT, Thermography

Common Mistakes

Using Carbon Steel Velocity for Every Material

Different materials transmit sound at different speeds. Selecting the wrong velocity will produce incorrect thickness and depth measurements.

Assuming All Stainless Steels Are Identical

Different stainless steel grades have different sound velocities, magnetic properties and conductivities.

Forgetting Temperature Effects

Material properties change as temperature increases. High temperature inspections may require velocity corrections.

Confusing Density with Acoustic Velocity

A dense material does not necessarily transmit ultrasound faster. Velocity depends on both density and elastic properties.

Ignoring Grain Structure

Coarse grain materials increase attenuation and scattering, reducing inspection sensitivity.

Did You Know?

  • Aluminium carries ultrasonic waves faster than carbon steel.
  • Austenitic stainless steels are generally non magnetic, while ferritic and martensitic grades are magnetic.
  • Acoustic impedance determines how much ultrasonic energy is reflected at a material boundary.
  • Eddy Current testing depends primarily on electrical conductivity and magnetic permeability.
  • Cast iron is difficult to inspect ultrasonically because its graphite structure scatters sound energy.
  • Titanium has an excellent strength to weight ratio and is widely used in aerospace applications.
  • Copper has one of the highest electrical conductivities of any engineering material.
  • Duplex stainless steels combine high strength with excellent corrosion resistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is sound velocity different for every material?

Sound velocity depends on a material's elastic properties and density. Each material transmits ultrasonic energy differently.

Why is acoustic impedance important?

Acoustic impedance controls how much ultrasonic energy is transmitted or reflected when sound crosses from one material into another.

Which material is easiest to inspect ultrasonically?

Fine grain carbon steel generally provides excellent sound transmission and is one of the easiest engineering materials to inspect.

Why is cast iron more difficult to inspect?

Its graphite flakes scatter and absorb ultrasonic energy, reducing penetration and signal quality.

Why does conductivity matter?

Electrical conductivity directly affects Eddy Current testing performance and probe selection.

Can the same probe inspect every material?

No. Probe frequency, crystal type and beam angle are often selected according to the material's thickness, grain structure and acoustic properties.

Engineer's Tips

Always verify the material grade before starting an inspection.
When unsure, confirm sound velocity using a calibration block made from the same material.
Higher frequency probes perform best on fine grain materials.
Lower frequencies provide better penetration in coarse grain materials.
Always consider temperature if working on hot components.
Material properties should come from recognised standards or manufacturer data whenever possible.