This chapter provides perspective on the physical dimensions associated with the microstructure of steel and the instruments that reveal grain size, morphology, phase distributions, crystal defects, and chemical composition, from which properties and behaviors derive. The chapter also reviews the definitions and classifications used to identify and differentiate commercial steels, including the AISI/SAE and UNS designation systems.

This appendix lists the designations, commercial sources, and suppliers of different types of fibers and resins.

To ensure consistency, quality of results, and documentation compliance, audits are required when heat treating. This chapter introduces basic parts of the ISO certification program.