Tag: ASTM Standards

I’ve been selling standards for a long time!  Since 1985, I’ve owned and operated Document Center and have reviewed many ASTM standards over the years.  There are a few that have really caught my attention during that time and today I thought I’d mention some of those!

The first ASTM standard I really started to use a a training tool with my staff was the ASTM B633, “Standard Specification for Electrodeposited Coatings of Zinc on Iron and Steel.”  About the time we computerized Document Center back in 1987, there must have been a contract or drawing that had a typo.  Suddenly, customers were calling asking for the ASTM B663, “Standard Specification for Silver-Tungsten Carbide Electrical Contact Material.”  As soon as I would read them the title it was clear something was not right.

This was the first time I had been faced with an erroneous reference to a standard.  It took me a bit of searching, but I was correctly able to identify the mistake!  And it dawned on me that having experience with standards is a valuable asset.  For most standards users at that time, a typo in a document number was the end of the line.  So that’s why your customer service rep will always confirm the document number by reading you the title when you order at Document Center!

The next ASTM standard I get a kick out of is the ASTM E2082, “Standard Guide for Descriptive Analysis of Shampoo Performance.”  It provides a methodology to describe the look and feel of shampoo, as well as the performance of the formulation!  It amazes me sometimes the products that are affected by standards, and the degree to which products are reviewed in order to provide a pleasing and effective result.

And finally, I often get asked what I do, and of course when I say my company Document Center sells standards, I often get a blank look in response.  Now I have an easy way to explain to some people what I do and how it impacts their lives!

Way back when, my son and I were shopping for a birthday gift for one of his friends.  We decided to get him a Lego set, and as we were looking at the various options, I noticed that the box had an ASTM number on the side.  Back at the shop, I looked the standard up:  ASTM F963, “Standard Consumer Safety Specification for Toy Safety.”

Standards are part of our lives, every day in many ways.  If standards are a part of your business, use our web store, www.document-center.com, to purchase the documents you need.  If you have questions about standards or want to know more about a particular standard, contact us by phone (650-591-7600), fax (650-591-7617) or email (info@document-center.com).  We’re Your Standards Experts and we’re here to help you.