colour codes on bar stock

[eski1]

hi i run a machining shop in England great britain
and we buy in various differnt grades of mild ,stainless steel , brass, aluminium etc
Is there meant to be a standard colour chart that tells you for instance if the bar end is red then that means the material is 316l st/st .Because it seems like different suppliers use different colours

Regards chris

 

[Goahead]

There is no universal color code for bars as there is for the various types of tungsten electrodes for Gas Tungsten Arc Welding.
A color code can be established as an internal standard for a manufacturing facility. Based on the Lot or Heat number marked at the bar ends it would be possible and recommended to color code, internally as above, also the different batches as they come in. And to keep a record of the material certificate.
Receiving Inspection should be instructed to do so depending on the industry requirements.
Stainless and aluminum bars or tubes may have an ink marking running for the whole length. It would be wise to keep a record of those markings for traceability and follow up.

http://www.welding-advisers.com/

 

[metengr]

I have performed numerous audits of vendors over the years that provide service to our organization. I have found similar instances where color coding of material inventory was not consistent. I believe the reason for not having a consistent color coding scheme for metal inventory is because some international Standards already have a color coding scheme for end products (which could create confusion). Also, like anything else, there has to be a real need for such Standardization.

With that said, your best bet is to develop a color coding scheme in accordance with your own Quality Assurance program. This way you are consistent in maintaining traceability and handling of material inventory.

 

[EdStainless]

Set up a numbering system, don't use colors.
They are too subject to miss-interpetation and other mistakes.

The best is to use UNS number that already exist for all alloys. If you want something shorter use a letter for the alloy group (A for aluminum) and then a number for the alloy.

= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =
Corrosion, every where, all the time.
Manage it or it will manage you.

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