EN 10160:1999

Overview

EN 10160:1999 is a CEN European Standard that defines an ultrasonic testing method (reflection method) for detecting internal discontinuities in uncoated flat steel products. The standard applies to nominal thicknesses from 6 mm to 200 mm and covers non‑alloyed and alloyed steels. Austenitic and austenoferritic steels are excluded unless the signal‑to‑noise conditions (difference between noise amplitude and echo detection threshold) are adequate for the acceptance limits.

Key topics and requirements

• Scope and material limits
  • Applies to uncoated flat steel products and semi‑products with nominal thickness 6–200 mm.
  • Designed for non‑alloy and alloy steels; special consideration required for austenitic/austenoferritic grades.
• Testing method
  • Uses the reflection method of ultrasonic testing to locate and assess internal discontinuities.
• Detection and acceptance
  • Requires clear criteria for echo detection thresholds and consideration of background noise amplitude to ensure reliable detection.
• Non‑destructive testing (NDT) context
  • Emphasizes inspection for internal flaws without damaging the product.
• Documentation and interpretation
  • Implies procedures for recording indications and interpreting ultrasonic echoes against specified acceptance limits (users should refer to project or purchaser specifications for exact acceptance criteria).

(EN 10160:1999 focuses on method definition and applicability rather than detailed calibration values; users should consult complementary documents or national implementation rules for procedural specifics.)

Applications

• Quality control and acceptance testing of steel plates and flat products at:
  • Steel mills and rolling mills
  • Service centers and plate distributors
  • Fabrication shops and structural steel manufacturers
• Incoming inspection for procurement specifications
• Routine production monitoring and final inspection to detect internal cracks, laminations, inclusions, or voids
• Use by NDT technicians, QA/QC managers, inspectors, and engineers involved in steel product assurance

Who uses this standard

• NDT practitioners performing ultrasonic inspections on flat steel products
• Quality engineers and inspectors managing material acceptance
• Steel producers and fabricators needing standardized inspection criteria
• Procurement and compliance teams verifying material integrity

Related standards

• Other EN and ISO standards on ultrasonic testing and non‑destructive testing complement EN 10160 by detailing equipment calibration, procedure qualification, and reporting formats. Refer to national and industry guidance for implementation and for inspection acceptance criteria tailored to specific applications.

Keywords: EN 10160, ultrasonic testing, reflection method, steel flat product, non‑destructive testing, NDT, internal discontinuities, 6–200 mm.