Standards for Industrial Composite Parts
Quality Infrastructure for Production and Application of Composites in Modern Industry
Composites (compound materials) have gained a special position in advanced industries due to their unique properties such as high strength, low weight, chemical
resistance, and versatile design capabilities . From aerospace and automotive industries to energy , construction , and medicine , composites are widely used in the
production of various parts. However, to ensure the quality, performance, and safety of these parts, precise and unified standards are required.
This article reviews the importance of standardization in the field of industrial composite parts , standard-developing organizations , types of technical standards,
testing methods, challenges, and international approaches.
The Importance of Standardization in Composite Parts
Compared to traditional metals, composite parts exhibit different mechanical and thermal behaviors.Therefore,to enable their widespread and safe use in industries
, standardization is essential in the following aspects:
Ensuring manufacturing quality
Repeatability in mass production
Performance evaluation under real working conditions
Acceptance by safety and regulatory bodies
Support for testing, inspection, and acceptance processes
Without a defined standard, producers and users may face risks such as incompatibility, reduced service life, and even safety hazards.
Organizations Developing Standards
Several national and international bodies are responsible for developing standards related to composite parts:
ASTM International
The most prominent organization for materials standards, including polymeric, metallic, and ceramic composites.
ISO (International Organization for Standardization)
Contains technical committees TC 61 and TC 164 for mechanical and polymer materials standards.
SAE International
Specialized in aerospace and automotive industries, with technical documents for structural composites.
DIN (Germany) and BSI (UK)
Credible European standards for engineering composites.
ACI and ASME
Focused on construction and mechanical applications.
In Iran, the National Standards Organization of Iran (ISIRI) has adopted or developed some international standards.
Types of Standards Related to Composites
Composite standards are generally categorized into five main groups:
Raw Material Standards
Properties of resin (epoxy, polyester, vinyl ester)
Specifications of fibers (carbon, glass, aramid)
Control of fiber content, uniformity, and moisture absorption
Part Design Standards
Modeling of stress, bending, fatigue, and impact
Laminate theory-based analysis methods
Rules for shaping, allowable curvature, and layer thickness
Production Standards
Molding techniques (Hand Lay-Up, RTM, Filament Winding, Pultrusion)
Control of curing temperature and pressure rate
Vacuum level, degassing, and resin infusion speed
Testing and Inspection Standards
Mechanical tests: Tensile, compression, bending, impact (based on ASTM D3039, D790, etc.)
Thermal tests: TG, TMA, DMA
Non-destructive tests (NDT): Ultrasonic, tomography, infrared radiation
Acceptance and Certification Standards
Dimensional, surface, porosity, and weight tolerances
Permissible rejection rate
Requirement for traceable documentation of materials and production processes
Examples of Valid Standards
Challenges in Standardizing Composite Parts
Nonlinear and Direction-Dependent Behavior
Unlike metals, composites do not have isotropic mechanical properties. Their behavior depends on fiber orientation and resin type.
Lack of Uniformity Between Standards
Many standards are only valid in specific regions (e.g., ASTM in the USA and ISO in Europe), often with notable differences in test methods or acceptance criteria.
Complexity in Non-Destructive Testing
Detecting internal cracks or porosity without damaging the part requires advanced equipment and precise interpretation of results.
Technological Advancements in Manufacturing
New methods such as carbon fiber 3D printing demand constant revision of standards.
Strategies for Enhancing Standardization in Iran’s Industry
Local Adaptation of Global Standards
The National Standards Organization can collaborate with universities and industries to develop localized versions of widely used standards.
Equipping Advanced Testing Laboratories
Labs capable of mechanical, thermal, and NDT testing are essential in industrial provinces to support composite manufacturers.
Training Specialized Human Resources
Experts, engineers, and inspectors in production must be familiar with standards, testing methods, and data analysis.
Creating a Composite Standards Information Database
Free or subsidized access to major global standards through domestic specialized portals can improve access for small industries.
Supporting Domestic Certification Bodies
Establishing and strengthening organizations for inspecting and certifying composite parts according to standards.
Conclusion
Standards for industrial composite parts are the foundation of quality, safety, and competitiveness in this growing industry. In a world where composites are widely
replacing traditional metals in advanced technologies, adherence to rigorous standards is a prerequisite for commercial and industrial success.
Withscientific capacity,a talented workforce,and a growing industry,Iran can play a significant role in the global composite industry by investing in the development
, training, and implementation of composite standards.
For consultation and purchase, contact us