Standard · Surface preparation and conditions
ASTM D4417
Field measurement of the surface profile of blast-cleaned steel.
ASTM D4417 gives four field methods:
- Method A: visual comparison with a profile comparator.
- Method B: a depth micrometer with a pointed probe.
- Method C: replica tape read with a spring micrometer.
- Method D: a portable stylus instrument that reports Rt and peak count.
Replica tape in practice
Subtract the 2 mil (50.8 µm) of incompressible film from the micrometer reading, or set the gauge to do it. Coarse tape covers 20–64 µm (0.8–2.5 mils) and X-Coarse 38–115 µm (1.5–4.5 mils). One measurement is the mean of two readings. The specification gives the profile range and how many measurements make a result.
Where the methods are named
- SSPC-SP 15 and SP 11 need a profile of at least 25 µm (1 mil) after power-tool cleaning. SP 15 measures it by Method B unless the specification says otherwise; SP 11 by Method B, C or D.
- Method D replaced ASTM D7127, which ASTM withdrew in 2021.
- The CIP Level 1 exam guide names ASTM D4417 among its standards.
Common mistake
Saying that D4417 has three methods. It has had four since 2021.
Use it: Practical station: replica tape
10 practice items in the members area mention ASTM D4417 (CIP 1: 5 · CIP 2: 3 · FROSIO written: 2).
Related
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This page describes the subject of ASTM D4417 in our own words; it does not reproduce the standard. For the full text, buy the current edition from ASTM International. Checked on 2026-10-14; errors go in the corrections log. CoatMentor is an independent study aid. It is not affiliated with ISO, AMPP, SSPC, NACE International, ASTM or FROSIO.