AAR Manual of Standards and Recommended Practices

Casting Details
M-201

CASTINGS, STEEL

Specification
M-201

Adopted: 1923; Last Revised: 2018

1.0 SCOPE
This specification covers carbon and alloy steel castings for locomotive and car equipment and for
miscellaneous use graded as A, B, B+, C, D, and E. This specification provides for all castings
unless another AAR specification for a particular product provides for a variation.
IMPLEMENTED 04/2018

2.0 BASIS OF PURCHASE

2.1 Grade A castings shall be furnished unannealed, annealed, or normalized unless otherwise
specified by the purchaser. Grades B and B+ castings shall be furnished normalized or normalized
and tempered. Grade C castings shall be furnished normalized and tempered or quenched and
tempered. Grades D and E castings shall be furnished quenched and tempered.
2.2 At the purchaser’s request, a certification will be made the basis of acceptance. The
certification shall include a statement that the material has been manufactured, sampled, tested,
and inspected in accordance with, and meets the requirements of, all applicable provisions of these
specifications. Each certification furnished shall be signed by an authorized agent of the supplier
or manufacturer. Where not specifically stated, it is to be understood that upon the request of the
purchaser records mentioned in this specification shall be made available for review by the
purchaser.
3.0 RECORDS
The manufacturer shall maintain records for a minimum of 3 years of all of the weights,
mechanical test reports, chemical test reports, and heat-treatment records required by this
specification—representing the purchased castings. These records will be made available to the
purchaser upon request. The manufacturer shall also maintain records for a minimum of 3 years
that provide traceability from the serial number of individual castings, where serial numbers are
required, to the records stated above.

MANUFACTURE
4.0 PROCESS
The steel may be made by one or more of the following processes: open hearth, electric furnace,
crucible, converter, or basic oxygen.
5.0 HEAT TREATMENT
Castings shall be cleaned sufficiently to respond to heat-treatment. Internal cavities shall not be
blocked by molding material. They shall then be treated according to the following procedure
appropriate to the requirements of paragraph 2.0.
After pouring, castings shall be allowed to cool to a temperature below 1000 °F (538 °C) prior to
heat-treatment at a rate that will not be injurious to the castings.
5.1 Full Annealing
The casting shall be heated to the proper temperature above the transformation range for the
required time to achieve complete austenization and to refine the grain structure. The casting shall
then be allowed to cool slowly in the furnace. Unless otherwise required by the purchaser, the
manufacturer has the option of normalizing instead of full annealing, where full annealing is
specified.

11/2016 S [M-201] 1
 AAR Manual of Standards and Recommended Practices
Casting Details
M-201

5.2 Normalized Steel Castings

Normalized steel castings shall be processed in the following order:
5.2.1 Heat to the proper uniform temperature above the transformation range and hold for the
proper time to achieve complete austenization and to refine the grain structure.
5.2.2 Withdraw from the furnace and cool in still air or a controlled forced-air cooling process
until temperature is below 700 °F (371 °C). Controlled forced-air cooling must be clearly defined
using a written process, including controls on time and cooling rate as required to produce
material properties compliant with this specification.
5.2.3 At the manufacturer’s option, Grades B and B+ castings specified as normalized may
receive a subsequent tempering.

IMPLEMENTED 04/2018
5.3 Normalized and Tempered Steel Castings
Normalized and tempered steel castings shall be processed in the following order:
5.3.1 Heat to the proper uniform temperature above the transformation range and hold for the
proper time to achieve complete austenization and to refine the grain structure.
5.3.2 Withdraw from the furnace and cool in still air or a controlled forced-air cooling process
until castings in their entirety are at least 100 °F (56 °C) below tempering temperature.
Controlled forced-air cooling must be clearly defined using a written process, including controls on
time and cooling rate as required to produce material properties compliant with this specification.
5.3.3 Temper by reheating to the proper uniform temperature below the transformation range,
but not less than 600 °F (316 °C) and hold for the required time. Remove from the furnace and
allow to cool at any desired rate.
5.4 Quenched and Tempered Steel Castings
Quenched and tempered steel castings shall be processed in the following order:
5.4.1 Heat to the proper uniform temperature above the transformation range and hold for the
proper time to achieve complete austenization and to refine the grain structure.
5.4.2 Withdraw from the furnace and while castings are above the transformation range, subject
to rapid cooling by suitable liquid medium to a temperature substantially below the
transformation range.
5.4.3 Temper by reheating to the proper uniform temperature below the transformation range,
but not less than 800 °F (427 °C). Hold for the required time, remove from the furnace, and allow
to cool at any desired rate. All castings prone to cracking after quenching shall be tempered as
soon as necessary to prevent cracking, but in no case shall the time between quenching and
tempering exceed 8 hours.

S [M-201] 2 11/2016
 AAR Manual of Standards and Recommended Practices
Casting Details
M-201

5.5 Heat-Treatment Documentation

These provisions apply only to truck frames, bolsters, coupler bodies, yokes, draft gear housings,
cushion units, and draft sills. The manufacturer is required to develop and document heat-treating
standards that describe the processes, process control procedures, and record keeping
requirements. These documents shall be presented and reviewed as part of the Foundry Approval
process and are intended to ensure that products are properly heat-treated. Temperatures in the
furnace for heat-treatment shall be controlled by either a thermocouple or pyrometer-based
system. The system recording equipment must produce time-temperature record charts that are
identified by date and furnace number. A log sheet for each load of castings heat-treated should
show all information pertinent to each heat-treat load including the following:
• type of product
IMPLEMENTED 04/2018

• the prescribed heat-treatment

• the serial numbers (if not available, the heat numbers) of the castings on the load
• the identification number of the test coupon or coupons charged with the load
• actual time of heat-treatment
Alternative procedures will be considered, provided a detailed proposal is submitted in writing to
the AAR for approval. This submission must ensure compliance with the intent of this
specification. Thermocouple or pyrometer-based systems that monitor temperatures in the furnace
shall be calibrated every 3 months. Records of time-temperature charts, furnace log sheets, and
calibrations for thermocouple or pyrometer-based systems shall be maintained for 3 years and be
available to the purchaser upon request
5.6 Test Lugs
For all castings, at least two and not more than four test lugs shall be cast on all castings 150 lb
and over and on such castings less than 150 lb as required by the purchaser. The location of the
test lugs shall be such that when removed by a qualified inspector, the test lugs shall indicate if
the casting has been subjected to heat-treatment. Manufacturers shall document inspector
qualifications and test lug inspection procedures. If inspection of the test lug indicates that the
casting has not been heat-treated, the casting will be heat-treated. The standard test lug shall be 1
in. in height, 1 in. in width, and 12 in. or 58 in. thick where it joins the casting.
6.0 CHEMICAL PROPERTIES AND TESTS
6.1 Chemical Composition
The steel analysis shall meet the following:

Grades A, B, and B+ Grades C, D, and E

Carbon, maximum percentage 0.32 0.32
Manganese, maximum percentage 0.90 1.85
Phosphorus, maximum percentage 0.04 0.04
Sulfur, maximum percentage 0.04 0.04
Silicon, maximum percentage 1.50 1.50

6.1.1 Grades A, B, and B+ Steel

For each reduction of 0.01% carbon below the maximum specified, an increase of 0.04% manganese
above the maximum specified will be permitted to a maximum of 1.2%.

11/2016 S [M-201] 3
 AAR Manual of Standards and Recommended Practices
Casting Details
M-201

6.1.2 The content of elements other than those designated in paragraph 6.1 shall be selected by
the manufacturer to obtain the physical properties specified. Each manufacturer shall establish
requirements for tramp elements that can have an adverse effect on impact properties or welding.
The requirements shall account for contribution of tramp elements to the carbon equivalency (CE)
of the finished casting. For Grades A, B, and B+, a CE equal to 0.72 maximum is allowable based
on the formula given below and the maximum values of C, Mn, and Si in paragraph 6.1. For
Grades C, D, and E, a CE equal to 0.88 maximum is allowable. Formulas, such as given below and
justified by the manufacturer, shall be used for calculating carbon equivalency. The actual values
of C, Mn, and Si, along with the values for tramp elements, shall be used when calculating the CE
of actual melts.
+ Si- + Cr + Mo + V- + Ni + Cu-
CE = C + Mn
------------------ ------------------------------ ------------------
6 5 15

IMPLEMENTED 04/2018
6.2 Hardenability
6.2.1 Grades D and E Steel
Composition of steel, except for coupler locks, shall produce in the standard Jominy test (procedure
per ASTM-A255, latest revision) the minimum hardness at 716 in. from the quenched end for the
carbon composition as follows, based on the initial composition:

Percentage Carbon Minimum Hardness, Rc

up to .25 30
0.25 to 0.30 33
0.31 to 0.32 35

6.2.2 Frequency of Test

Following satisfactory Jominy test results for 10 consecutive heats, the manufacturer shall
conduct one Jominy test at least once every month for Grades D and E steel.
6.2.3 Hardenability Calculations
The chemical ideal diameter (DI) shall be calculated for each heat of quenched and tempered steel
in accordance with ASTM-A255, latest revision. The calculated DI value shall be shown as
information on the report of mechanical and chemical tests as defined in paragraph 3.0.
6.3 Chemical Analyses
6.3.1 Ladle Analysis
An analysis of test samples taken during the initial 25% of the castings poured from each ladle
must be made by the manufacturer to determine the percentage of carbon, manganese,
phosphorus, sulfur, and silicon and of the intentional alloying elements. The result of this analysis
shall be reported to the purchaser or purchaser’s representative upon request and shall conform to
the requirements of paragraph 6.1. If drillings are used, they must be taken at least 14 in. beneath
the surface of the test ingot.
6.3.2 End of Heat Analysis
For each heat of steel, a sample representing the last metal going into, or taken after the pouring
of, the last acceptable casting must be used by the manufacturer to determine the percentage of
manganese. The results of this analysis shall be reported to the purchaser or purchaser’s
representative upon request and shall conform to the requirements of paragraph 6.1. If drillings
are used, they must be taken at least 14 in. beneath the surface of the test ingot.

S [M-201] 4 11/2016
 AAR Manual of Standards and Recommended Practices
Casting Details
M-201

6.4 Check Analysis

An analysis may be made by the purchaser from the broken tension test specimen or from a
casting of each heat. The chemical composition thus determined shall conform to the requirements
specified in paragraph 6.1. Drillings for analysis shall be taken not less than 14 in. beneath the
surface and shall be taken in such a manner as not to impair the usefulness of a casting.
7.0 MECHANICAL PROPERTIES AND TESTS
7.1 Tensile Test Specimen Coupons
7.1.1 At the manufacturer’s option, coupons shall be either cast attached to the casting or the
gating system or produced from keel blocks and prepared in accordance with ASTM-A370, latest
revision.
IMPLEMENTED 04/2018

7.1.2 The process used for the manufacture of keel blocks shall be representative of the
manufacturer’s normal process methods.
7.1.3 Each melt shall be tested for mechanical properties after heat-treatment. The coupons from
each melt shall be heat-treated with castings of the same grade, in the same manner as the
castings they represent. Each heat-treat furnace load shall include at least one test coupon of the
same grade of steel and have its mechanical properties determined and recorded. Batch process
heat-treat furnace load is defined as all the castings in the heat-treat furnace of the same grade of
steel. Continuous process heat-treat furnace load is defined as all the castings of the same grade of
steel that pass a given location in the furnace during the period of one heat-treating cycle.
7.2 Tension Test
7.2.1 Test shall be conducted in accordance with Standard Methods and Definitions for
Mechanical Testing of Steel Products, ASTM-A370, latest revision, using l/2-in. round (13-mm)
2-in. (50-mm) gauge-length specimens as illustrated in that specification. Specimens shall be
removed from coupons produced per paragraph 7.1.1.
7.2.2 The steel used for the casting shall conform to the following minimum requirements.
Grade A
Annealed or Grade Grade Grade Grade Grade
Unannealed Normalized B B+ C D E
Tensile strength (ksi) 60 60 70 80 90 105 120
Yield point (ksi) 30 30 38 50 60 85 100
Elongation in 2 in. (percentage) 22 26 24 24 22 17 14
Reduction of area (percentage) 30 38 36 36 45 35 30

7.2.3 The manufacturer shall test specimens from melt heats and record results. One specimen
per heat for each grade of steel shall be tested. If a test specimen shows a defect during machining
or exhibits flaws before testing, it shall be discarded and another specimen substituted. If a test
specimen failure is attributed to a flaw, the flaw shall be documented and another specimen
substituted. Manufacturers shall have a documented procedure to handle retest. This procedure
shall address under what circumstances a retest is permitted. Specimens shall be removed from
coupons produced per paragraph 7.1.1. Results of testing must show compliance with the
requirements of paragraph 7.2.2 prior to shipment of finished castings.
7.2.4 If the percentage of elongation of any tension specimen is less than that specified, and any
part of the fracture is more than 34 in. from the center of the gauge length as indicated by the
gauge marks on the specimen before testing, a retest is allowed. Specimens shall be removed from
coupons produced per paragraph 7.1.1.

11/2016 S [M-201] 5
 AAR Manual of Standards and Recommended Practices
Casting Details
M-201

7.2.5 At the time of purchase, at only the purchaser’s option, specimens may be cut from castings
(excluding flawed specimens) and must have at least 80% of the tensile and yield properties
established in paragraph 7.2.2.
7.3 Impact Test
7.3.1 The steel impact properties may be determined by testing standard Charpy-V Notch Type A
specimens prepared as illustrated in Figure 11 in ASTM-A370. Specimens shall be removed from
coupons produced per paragraph 7.1.1. A test consists of determining the average energy absorbed
from three impact specimens from the same heat. The results shall meet the following minimum
requirements at the stated temperature:
Cast Steel Temperature (°F) Energy (ft·lb)

IMPLEMENTED 04/2018
Grades B and B+ +20 15
Grade C (NT) 0 15
Grade C (QT) –40 20
Grade D –40 20
Grade E –40 20

7.3.2 Impact tests shall be conducted in accordance with the Standard Methods and Definitions
for Mechanical Testing of Steel Products, ASTM-A370, latest revision.
7.3.3 The manufacturer shall test specimens from melt heats and record results, including
chemistry of that heat, excluding flawed specimens. Frequency of these tests shall be one test per
week per grade of steel obtained during the pouring of the last 25% of the heat. Specimens shall be
removed from coupons produced per paragraph 7.1.1.
7.3.4 As a manufacturer’s alternative, impact properties may be determined by use of the
Dynamic Tear Test (ASTM-E604) or the Nil Ductility Transition Test (ASTM-E208). Specimens
shall be removed from coupons per paragraph 7.1.1.
7.3.4.1 The Dynamic Tear test shall consist of determining the average energy absorbed from
three specimens from the same heat that shall be a minimum of 50 ft·lb at the temperature
specified in the table in paragraph 7.3.4.3.
7.3.4.2 The Nil Ductility test shall consist of testing two specimens at the temperature specified
in the table in paragraph 7.3.4.3. Both specimens shall exhibit “no-break” performance.
7.3.4.3 Dynamic Tear and Nil Ductility Test Temperature
Cast Steel Testing Temperature (°F)
Grades B and B+ +60
Grade C (NT) +60
Grade C (QT) –60
Grade D –60
Grade E –60

7.3.5 A check test may be made by the purchaser from a casting at purchaser’s expense. Results
of this testing shall conform to the minimum values specified in paragraph 7.3.4.

S [M-201] 6 11/2016
 AAR Manual of Standards and Recommended Practices
Casting Details
M-201

7.4 Hardness
7.4.1 Cast steel components, except as provided for in product specifications, must be within a
Brinell hardness range as follows:
Material Grade Identification BHN Range
Grade A 108–160
Grades B and B+ 137–228
Grade C 179–241
Grade D 211–285
Grade E 241–311
IMPLEMENTED 04/2018

7.4.2 Testing is to be done on a surface that has been ground to remove decaburization in
accordance with ASTM-A370. This may be used as a process check as needed to supplement other
test results. A hardness test is to be performed on a furnace heat lot basis of either one casting or
coupon.
7.5 Design Group Tests
7.5.1 Design group tests shall be conducted per the component specification or standard.
7.5.2 For any AAR M-1003 Appendix A commodities listed with M-201 technical approval
required and without an applicable specification, design group tests shall be conducted once per
year. Tests shall consist of the following:
• Saw-cut sectioning of a product casting in critical areas to check for satisfactory solidity
levels per the manufacturer’s internal requirements.
• Mechanical properties shall be recorded for information purposes using the same test
methods described in paragraphs 7.2 and 7.3. Specimens shall be taken from areas of
sufficient size in a location as close as possible to a critical area of the product casting.
• Wall thickness measurements.
• Gauging of areas where fit-up is critical.
8.0 TEST SUMMARY
8.1 Test requirements are summarized in Appendix A, “Report of Chemical and Mechanical
Properties.” Test results shall be recorded using this type of format for all M-201 tests and design
group tests.
9.0 NUMBER OF TESTS, SMALL ORDERS
In case of small orders for castings weighing over 180 lb where the size of the order and the
available pattern and foundry equipment are such that not more than five castings can be cast in
one heat, the physical properties, as required in paragraph 7.0, will be determined from an extra
or spare test coupon cast with and attached to some other casting of the same heat.
10.0 RE-HEAT TREATMENT
If the results of the physical test lot do not conform to the requirements specified, the
manufacturer may re-heat-treat such lot not more than twice, and retests shall be as specified in
paragraph 7.0.

11/2016 S [M-201] 7
 AAR Manual of Standards and Recommended Practices
Casting Details
M-201

WORKMANSHIP AND FINISH

11.0 WORKMANSHIP
All castings shall conform to the drawing tolerances furnished to the purchaser or to the
dimensions predicated by the pattern supplied by the purchaser, if no drawing has been provided.
12.0 FINISH
The castings shall be free from injurious defects, and shall be thoroughly cleaned when offered for
inspection.
13.0 WELD REPAIR AND THERMAL DRESSING
13.1 General

IMPLEMENTED 04/2018
13.1.1 Facilities performing weld repairs under this specification shall be inspected and approved
by the AAR when required for the respective technical certification.
13.1.2 Manufacturers shall have specific written procedures in place to identify and control
castings that require weld repair and/or thermal dressing after heat-treatment. These procedures
shall be in agreement with any applicable AAR MSRP requirement(s).
13.1.3 Markings shall be utilized and include either paint, color code, color coded tags, or other
suitable means that ensure that a component’s status is clearly known throughout the finishing
process.
13.1.4 Manufacturers shall have a demonstrable process to ensure compliance to written
procedures, including training programs and record-keeping programs.
13.1.5 Low-hydrogen shielded-metal arc (SMAW) electrodes shall be purchased in hermetically
sealed containers or shall be baked as prescribed by AWS D15.1, “Railroad Welding Specification
for Cars and Locomotives.” Electrodes that have been wet shall not be used.
13.1.6 Welding and thermal dressing shall not be allowed when the surfaces to be welded are wet
or exposed to rain, snow, or high wind, or when the ambient temperature in the work area is below
0 °F. These environmental conditions do not alter or preclude the minimum preheat or interpass
temperatures required by the welding procedure (see paragraph 13.2.2).
13.2 Procedure Qualification and Testing
13.2.1 Procedures for weld repair on castings manufactured to this specification shall be
qualified in accordance with the latest revision of AWS D15.1, “Railroad Welding Specification for
Cars and Locomotives.”
13.2.2 Welding procedures shall include appropriate preheat temperatures as determined by
equivalent carbon content values and the material section thickness to be welded. Under no
conditions shall welding be performed when the casting temperature is below 40 °F. Procedure
qualification test coupons must be subjected to the same heat-treatment before and after welding
as that applied to the casting.
13.2.3 Build-up welds shall be qualified using a complete joint penetration (CJP) groove weld
test.
13.2.4 Procedures may be qualified using either shielded-metal arc (SMAW), flux-core arc
(FCAW), or gas-metal arc (GMAW) welding processes. Weld material deposited shall provide final
properties equivalent to the applicable grade of cast steel specified in paragraph 7.0. Weld
material deposited shall provide final properties after heat-treatment no less than the values
specified in paragraph 7.2.5.

S [M-201] 8 11/2016
 AAR Manual of Standards and Recommended Practices
Casting Details
M-201

13.2.5 The number of tests, type of specimens, range of thickness qualified, and position
limitations for weld repair on castings shall be the same as for CJP groove weld tests on plate
specified in AWS D15.1. For alternative qualification to the specified root, face, and/or side
guided-bend tests, three macroetch cross-sectional test specimens may be prepared when
qualifying low-ductility cast materials having greater than 90 ksi yield. The reduced section
tension tests are still required.
13.2.6 Essential Variables
Limitations shall be the same as those listed in AWS D15.1. A separate qualification test shall be
required if changes are made outside the limitations of essential variables.
13.3 Performance Qualification and Testing
IMPLEMENTED 04/2018

13.3.1 Welders, welding operators, and tack welders performing weld repairs to castings
manufactured to this specification shall be qualified by testing prescribed by the latest revision of
AWS D15.1, “Railroad Welding Specification for Cars and Locomotives.”
13.3.2 Weld repair shall be made in the position for which the welder is qualified in all cases.
Welding in the flat (down-hand) position is preferred.
13.4 Repair
13.4.1 Unless otherwise defined by a specific AAR specification, the manufacturer shall identify
all critical areas of the casting design where weld preparation and repair is critical to component
performance.
13.4.2 Weld repairs performed after heat-treatment on Grade C, D, and E castings and in critical
areas of Grade A, B, or B+ castings will necessitate full furnace reheat-treatment of the casting,
unless stated otherwise in an applicable MSRP requirement.
13.4.3 Removal of defects may be accomplished by machining, grinding, or chipping or by means
of oxy-fuel, air-carbon-arc, or plasma-arc gouging. The resultant cavity should have gradual
contours, sufficient sidewall bevel, and a root face to avoid stress concentrations and achieve full
weld penetration. Verification of defect removal shall be made by visual inspection and/or other
non-destructive testing methods. Defect evacuation utilizing weld electrodes (often referred to as
“hot-rodding weld-defect-evacuation practice”) is prohibited.
13.4.4 Welds in noncritical areas shall be in accordance with the following:
13.4.4.1 The entire defect must be removed per paragraph 13.4.3.
13.4.4.2 Where a defect does not propagate through the complete casting wall or thickness, the
area shall be prepared by contouring the base metal for build-up welding.

11/2016 S [M-201] 9
 AAR Manual of Standards and Recommended Practices
Casting Details
M-201

13.4.4.3 Where a defect penetrates through the casting wall or thickness, the area shall be
prepared for a complete joint penetration (CJP) weld. If both sides of the wall are accessible for
welding, the casting may be welded from both sides using a double “V” or “U” groove joint contour
weld (see Figs. 13.1 and 13.2, respectively).
Groove Angle Groove Angle

Bevel Angle
Groove Face
Bevel Radius
Depth of Bevel Root Face Depth of Bevel

Root Face

IMPLEMENTED 04/2018
Root Opening R
Root Opening

Groove Angle Groove Angle

Reinforcement
Reinforcement

Length Length
TYP TYP
Length Length
Fig. 13.1 Double V-groove weld Fig. 13.2 Double U-groove weld
13.4.4.4 If inaccessible for welding from the root side, the casting may be weld-repaired using a
single “V” or “U” groove joint contour with either fused backing (steel plate) or unfused backing
(copper, brass, or ceramic plate), provided the root surface is smooth and clean (see Figs. 13.3 and
13.4, respectively).
Groove Angle Groove Angle
Bevel Angle Groove Face
Groove Face

Depth of Bevel Depth of Bevel

Bevel Radius
Backing R Backing
Root Opening Root Opening

Reinforcement Reinforcement

Length Size Length Size

TYP TYP

Fig. 13.3 Single V-groove weld Fig. 13.4 Single U-groove weld
13.4.5 Welds in critical areas shall be in accordance with the following:
13.4.5.1 Where a defect continues through the casting wall and both sides of the wall are
accessible for welding, the casting shall be welded from both sides using a double “V” or a “U”
contour weld. Where one side is inaccessible, use of a copper, brass, or other suitable weld backing
is required.
13.4.5.2 For defects that do not penetrate completely through the casting wall, the entire defect
must be removed per paragraph 13.4.3, and the area shall be prepared by contouring the base
metal for build-up welding.

S [M-201] 10 11/2016
 AAR Manual of Standards and Recommended Practices
Casting Details
M-201

13.5 Inspection
All welds shall be visually inspected. Welds shall be accepted if they are in conformance with AWS
D15.1, “Visual Inspection of Completed Welds” and meet other requirements when specified
elsewhere in a product specification. Porosity shall not exceed the limits of AWS D15.1 for Class 2
welds. Castings may be subjected to appropriate additional nondestructive testing methods to
determine weld integrity.
13.6 Thermal Dressing
13.6.1 Best foundry practices include conducting thermal dressing before heat-treatment.
13.6.2 If thermal dressing is required after heat-treatment and is in a critical area, the casting
shall be heat-treated again.
IMPLEMENTED 04/2018

13.6.3 If thermal dressing is required after heat-treatment and is in a noncritical area,

heat-treatment is optional unless specified elsewhere in a product specification.
14.0 MARKING
When marking requirements are not covered by individual product specification, the
manufacturer’s identification mark, the pattern number and grade, and when specified, the
purchaser’s initials shall be legibly cast on all castings.
15.0 VARIATION IN WEIGHT
When not covered by individual product specification, the normal weight shall have been
previously agreed upon between the purchaser and the manufacturer. Castings may vary not more
than 5% above or 3% below what has been determined as the normal weight for the castings.

INSPECTION AND REJECTION

16.0 INSPECTION
16.1 The inspector representing the purchaser shall have free entry, at all times while the work
on the contract of the purchaser is being performed, to all parts of the manufacturer’s works that
concern the manufacture of the material ordered. The manufacturer shall afford the inspector, free
of charge, all reasonable facilities and necessary assistance to satisfy inspector that the material is
being furnished in accordance with these specifications. Tests shall be made prior to shipment, and
inspection shall be made prior to shipment at the place of manufacture unless otherwise specified.
16.2 The purchaser may make tests to govern the acceptance or rejection of the material in
purchaser’s own laboratory or elsewhere. Such tests shall be made at the expense of the purchaser.
16.3 Rejection
Material represented by samples that fail to conform to the requirements of these specifications or
to individual product specification will be rejected.
16.4 Material that, subsequent to test and inspection at the foundry or elsewhere and its
acceptance, shows injurious defects, will be rejected and the manufacturer shall be notified.
16.5 AAR Representation
In addition to the purchaser’s representation, an AAR official representative shall have free entry
at all times to all parts of the manufacturer’s works that concern the manufacture, test, and
inspection of materials for use in interchange service. This access is for the purpose of providing
assurance that industry standards are being maintained. The manufacturer shall afford the AAR
representative all reasonable facilities to ensure that materials are being furnished in accordance
with these specifications.

11/2016 S [M-201] 11
 APPENDIX A
REPORT OF CHEMICAL AND MECHANICAL PROPERTIES
(SEE PARAGRAPHS 6.0, 7.0, 8.0)
M-201 Tests
Casting Information Per-Heat Tests Weekly Tests1 Monthly Test
Sample from First 25% of Pour Charpy3 Jominy Test4
(Second Mn Test Is from the End of the Pour) Coupon Specimen (from Coupon)
% % % % % % Tensile Yield % % (ft·lb) <0.25 C — 30 Rc
Catalog Heat C Mn Mn#2 S P Si CE % % % % % % % (psi) (psi) E RA AVG 0.25–0.30 C — 33 Rc
Date Number No. Grade (Max) (Max) (Max) (Max) (Max) (Max) (Max) Al Cu Cr Ni Mo B V (Min) (Min) (Min) (Min) BHN T ºF 1 2 3 (Min) 0.31–0.32 C — 35 Rc
— — — A2 .32 .90 .90 .04 .04 1.50 .72 — — — — — — — 60,000 30,000 26 38 108–160 NA NA NA
— — — B .32 .90 .90 .04 .04 1.50 .72 — — — — — — — 70,000 38,000 24 36 137–228 +20 15 NA
— — — B+ .32 .90 .90 .04 .04 1.50 .72 — — — — — — — 80,000 50,000 24 36 137–228 +20 15 NA
— — — C (NT) .32 1.85 1.85 .04 .04 1.50 .88 — — — — — — — 90,000 60,000 22 45 179–241 0 15 NA
— — — C (QT) .32 1.85 1.85 .04 .04 1.50 .88 — — — — — — — 90,000 60,000 22 45 179–241 –40 20 NA
— — — D .32 1.85 1.85 .04 .04 1.50 .88 — — — — — — — 105,000 85,000 17 35 211–285 –40 20 —
— — — E .32 1.85 1.85 .04 .04 1.50 .88 — — — — — — — 120,000 100,000 14 30 241–311 –40 20 —

Design Group Tests

S [M-201] 12
Castings Samples—Frequency per Component Specification or Annually If Not Specified
Casting Details

1 Test required weekly for each grade of steel being produced by a Charpy3,5
foundry (ft·lb)
Catalog Heat Tensile Yield % %
2 Annealed or normalized
Date Number No. Grade (psi) (psi) E5 RA5 T ºF 1 2 3 AVG
3 Dynamic tear tests or nil ductility tests may be substituted for Charpy
— — — A2 48,000 24,000 — — NA NA
tests
4 Jominy tests are required for Grades D and E only; specimen can be — — — B 56,000 30,000 — — +20 15
taken from coupon or casting — — — B+ 64,000 40,000 — — +20 15
5 Design group tests for elongation, reduction of area, and impact
— — — C (NT) 72000 48,000 — — 0 15
toughness are recorded for information purposes only and should not be
used for engineering purposes — — — C (QT) 72,000 48,000 — — –40 20
AAR Manual of Standards and Recommended Practices

— — — D 84,000 68,000 — — –40 20

— — — E 96,000 80,000 — — –40 20

SUBMITTED BY COMPANY FOUNDRY LOCATION DATE

___________________________________ __________________________________ __________________________________ ___________________

11/2016
M-201

IMPLEMENTED 04/2018
 AAR Manual of Standards and Recommended Practices
Casting Details
M-201 APPENDIX A

APPENDIX A
MSRP COMPLIANCE CHECKLIST
This checklist is provided as an aid in preparation for technical inspection and shall be completed
by supplier prior to the inspection. The inspector shall complete an independent checklist during
the technical inspection. The checklist does not replace or supersede any requirements of this
specification.
Note: If manufacturing to Specification M-210 or M-211, use the checklist located in that document
instead of this one.
IMPLEMENTED 04/2018

11/2016 S [M-201] 13
 MSRP Compliance Checklist (Specification M-201) (page 1 of 6)
Audit
Question # Question Yes No Remarks
APPENDIX A

M-201 manufacture of couplers and draft components

1.0 Chemical Properties and Tests (reference Specification M-201, paragraphs 6.1 through 6.1.2 )
1.1 Chemical Composition
1.1.1 Does the manufacturer maintain records of each ladle that verify that the steel meets the required chemical
composition?
Grade B and B+ steel must contain no more than
0.32% carbon, 0.90% manganese, 0.04% phosphorus 0.04% sulfur, and 1.50% silicon
Grade C D and E Steel must contain no more than
0.32% carbon, 1.85% manganese, 0.04% phosphorus, 0.04% sulfur, and 1.50% silicon
1.1.2 Does the manufacturer calculate the carbon equivalent (CE) for each grade of steel? (B, B+, CE = 0.72 max;
C, D, and E = 0.88 max.)
1.1.3 Are these records kept for at least 3 years?
1.2 Hardenability Requirements (reference Specification M-201, paragraphs 6.2 through 6.2.3)
1.2.1 For Grades D and E, does the manufacturer maintain records to verify that Jominy hardenability tests are
performed at least once per month? (This frequency is acceptable only if 10 consecutive heats were
previously tested satisfactorily.)
1.2.2 Hardenability requirements for Grades D and E—minimum hardness at 7/16 in. from the quenched end.
Up to 25% carbon—minimum 30 Rockwell C (Rc)
0.25 to 0.30% carbon—minimum 33 Rc

S [M-201] 14
0.31 to 0.32% carbon—minimum 35 Rc.
Casting Details

1.2.5 For Grades D and E, does the manufacturer maintain records to verify that hardenability calculations are made
to determine the ideal critical diameter (DI) for each heat of quenched and tempered steel in accordance with
ASTM-A255, latest revision?
1.3 Chemical Analyses (reference Specification M-201 paragraphs 6.3 through 6.3.2)
1.3.1 Does the manufacturer maintain records to verify that samples are taken during the initial 25% of the castings
poured from each ladle to determine the percentage of carbon, manganese, phosphorus, sulphur, silicon, and
intentional alloying elements? Are these records kept for 3 years?
1.3.2 Does the manufacturer maintain records of each heat that verify that the end-of-heat steel continues to meet
the maximum allowable percentage of manganese? (See manganese requirements listed in question 1.1.)
AAR Manual of Standards and Recommended Practices

1.3.3 Does the manufacturer collect chemical analysis drillings?

1.3.4 IF NO—skip to question 2.0. (A company is not required to take drillings.)
1.3.5 IF YES—does the manufacturer ensure that drillings are taken not less than 1/4 in. beneath the surface?
(Procedure/process should state.)

11/2016
M-201

IMPLEMENTED 04/2018
 IMPLEMENTED 04/2018
MSRP Compliance Checklist (Specification M-201) (page 2 of 6)
M-201

11/2016
Audit
Question # Question Yes No Remarks
2.0 Mechanical Properties and Tests (reference Specification M-201 paragraphs 7.1 through 7.2.4)
Test failures—see Specification M-201 paragraphs 7.2.4 and 10.0
2.1 Tensile Test Specimen Coupons
2.1.1 Does the manufacturer create tensile test specimen coupons in accordance with ASTM-A370, latest revision?
(Procedure should reference ASTM-A370 or include it.)
2.1.1.1 Is the process used representative of normal process methods? (Test coupons should be made in the same
batch or at a minimum the same manner as the components they represent.)
2.1.1.2 Is each melt tested after heat-treatment for mechanical properties (yield, tensile, elongation, and reduction of
area)?
2.1.2 Are these records kept for at least 3 years?
2.2 Tension Test
2.2.1 Does the manufacturer conduct the tension test in accordance with ASTM-A370? (Procedure should
reference ASTM-A370 or include it.)
2.2.2 Use 1/2 in. round, 2 in. gauge length specimens.
2.2.2.1 Does the steel conform to the following minimum requirements?
Grade B steel—tensile strength 70 ksi, yield point 38 ksi, elongation in 2 in. 24%, reduction of area 36%
Grade B+ steel—tensile strength 80 ksi, yield point 50 ksi, elongation in 2 in. 24%, reduction of area 36%
Grade C steel—tensile strength 90 ksi, yield point 60 ksi, elongation in 2 in. 22%, reduction of area 45%
Grade D steel—tensile strength 105 ksi, yield point 85 ksi, elongation in 2 in. 17%, reduction of area 35%

S [M-201] 15
Casting Details

Grade E steel—tensile strength 120 ksi, yield point 100 ksi, elongation in 2 in. 14%, reduction of area 30%
2.2.2.2 Are specimens from each melt heat-tested and the results recorded?
2.2.2.3 Are flawed specimens excluded and good specimens substituted?
2.2.3 Are these records kept for at least 3 years?
2.3 Impact Test
2.3.1 Does the manufacturer determine impact properties using the standard Charpy V-notch test? (The auditor
should look for a reference in the procedure to “Charpy V-notch.”) (Reference Specification M-201,
paragraphs 7.3.1 through 7.3.3.)
If NO, the manufacturer must determine impact properties using Dymanic Tear Test or NIL Ductility Transition
AAR Manual of Standards and Recommended Practices

Test
2.3.1.1 Are type A specimens prepared as illustrated in ASTM-A370, Fig. 11? (Procedure should reference
ASTM-A370 Fig. 11 or contain it.)
2.3.1.2 Are specimens removed from coupons produced in accordance with ASTM-A370? (Procedure should
reference ASTM-A370 or include it.)
2.3.1.3 Are tests conducted on specimens from at least one heat per week per grade of steel?
2.3.1.4 Are specimens obtained from the final 25% of heat? (Either the inspection and test plan or procedure should
indicate.)
APPENDIX A
 MSRP Compliance Checklist (Specification M-201) (page 3 of 6)
Audit
Question # Question Yes No Remarks
2.3.1.5 Do test records indicate that the coupons meet the following minimum requirements at the following
APPENDIX A

temperatures?
Grade B +20 °F 15 energy ft-lb
Grade B+ +20 °F 15 energy ft-lb
Grade C(NT) 0 °F 15 energy ft-lb
Grade C(QT) –40 °F 20 energy ft-lb
Grade D –40 °F 20 energy ft-lb
Grade E –40 °F 20 energy ft-lb
2.3.2 Does the manufacturer determine alternative impact properties using the Dynamic Tear Test (ASTM-E604)?
(Procedure should reference ASTM-E604 or contain it.) Specification M-201, paragraphs 7.3.4 through
7.3.4.3.
2.3.2.1 Are the specimens removed from coupons produced in accordance with ASTM-A370? (Procedure should
reference ASTM-A370 or contain it.)
2.3.2.2 Does the contractor determine the average energy absorbed from three specimens in the same heat?
Specification M-201, paragraph 7.3.4.1.
The average must be at least 50 ft-lb at +60 °F for Grade B steel
The average must be at least 50 ft-lb at +60 °F for Grade B+ steel
The average must be at least 50 ft-lb at +60 °F for Grade C(NT) steel
The average must be at least 50 ft-lb at –60 °F for Grade C(QT) steel

S [M-201] 16
Casting Details

The average must be at least 50 ft-lb at –60 °F for Grade D steel

The average must be at least 50 ft-lb at –60 °F for Grade E steel
2.3.3 Does the manufacturer determine alternative impact properties using NIL Ductility Test (ASTM E208)?
(Procedure should reference ASTM-E208 or contain it.) Specification M-201, paragraphs 7.3.4 through
7.3.4.3.
2.3.3.1 Are the specimens removed from coupons produced in accordance with ASTM-A370? (Procedure should
reference ASTM-A370 or contain it.)
2.3.3.2 Does the contractor test two specimens at the temperatures specified? Specification M-201,
paragraphs 7.3.4.2 and 7.3.4.3.
AAR Manual of Standards and Recommended Practices

Both specimens must exhibit “no break” performance at +60 °F for Grade B steel
Both specimens must exhibit “no break” performance at +60 °F for Grade B+ steel
Both specimens must exhibit “no break” performance at +60 °F for Grade C(NT) steel
Both specimens must exhibit “no break” performance at –60 °F for Grade C(QT) steel
Both specimens must exhibit “no break” performance at –60 °F for Grade D steel
Both specimens must exhibit “no break” performance at –60 °F for Grade E steel
2.3.4 Are these records kept for at least 3 years?

11/2016
M-201

IMPLEMENTED 04/2018
 IMPLEMENTED 04/2018
MSRP Compliance Checklist (Specification M-201) (page 4 of 6)
M-201

11/2016
Audit
Question # Question Yes No Remarks
2.4 Hardness Test
2.4.1 Are Brinell hardness tests conducted? Specification M-201, paragraphs 7.4.1 and 7.4.2.
2.4.1.1 Is hardness tested on a surface that has been ground to remove decarburization? (Reference ASTM-A370.)
2.4.1.2 Are hardness tests performed on a furnace-load basis of either one casting or coupon?
2.4.1.3 Do test results fall in the specified Brinell hardness range as appropriate?
Grade A Steel 108–160
Grade B and B+ Steel 137–228
Grade C Steel 179–241
Grade D Steel 211–285
Grade E Steel 241–311
2.4.2 Are these records kept for at least 3 years?
2.5 Design Group Testing
2.5.1 Are design group tests conducted per the component specification or standard? Specification M-201,
paragraph 7.5.1.
2.5.2 Are design group tests performed for commodities listed in the Manual of Standards and Recommended
Practices, Section J, Specification M-1003, Appendix A, that require Specification M-201 technical approval
and are without an applicable specification? This testing is required at least once per year. Specification
M-201, paragraph 7.5.2.

S [M-201] 17
3.0 Heat Treatment (reference Specification M-201, paragraphs 5.0 through 5.6)
Casting Details

Supplement to the requirements of MSRP Section J, Specification M-1003, paragraphs 2.15.8 through
2.15.11:
3.1 Are casting cooled to a temperature below 1000 °F (538 °C) prior to heat-treating?
3.2 Are castings heat-treated in accordance with Specification M-201, paragraphs 5.0 through 5.4?
3.2.1 Does the manufacturer supply truck frames, bolsters, coupler bodies, yokes, draft gear housings, cushion
units, or draft sills? (If NO, skip to question 3.3.)
3.2.2 Does the manufacturer maintain written heat-treatment procedures?
3.2.3 Does the manufacturer maintain documentation of furnace equipment, including time-temperature record
charts?
AAR Manual of Standards and Recommended Practices

3.2.3.1 Does the manufacturer maintain a log sheet for each load of castings heat-treated? Specification M-201,
paragraph 5.5.
APPENDIX A
 MSRP Compliance Checklist (Specification M-201) (page 5 of 6)
Audit
Question # Question Yes No Remarks
3.2.3.2 Does the log contain, as a minimum, the following:
APPENDIX A

Type of product
Prescribed heat treatment
Serial number or heat number of castings on load
Identification of test coupon
Actual time of heat-treatment
3.2.4 If NO, has an alternative procedure been approved by the AAR?
3.2.5 Are pyrometers or thermocouples calibrated every 3 months?
3.2.6 Are records of this heat-treatment activity maintained for 3 years?
3.2.7 Does the manufacturer use forced-air cooling? If yes, does the manufacturer have and follow a written
procedure that includes controls on time and cooling rate? Specification M-201, paragraphs 5.2.2 and 5.3.2.
3.3 Are test lug inspection procedures and inspector qualifications documented? Test lugs shall be evaluated by
a qualified inspector to verify that the casting has been subjected to heat-treatment. Specification M-201,
paragraph 5.6.
4.0 Finish
4.1 Are procedures in place to ensure that castings are free from injurious defects and thoroughly cleaned for
inspection? Specification M-201, paragraph 12.0.
5.0 Welding and Thermal Dressing

S [M-201] 18
5.1 Auditor should verify that welding meets the requirements of MSRP Section J, Specification M-1003,
Casting Details

paragraphs 2.15.8 through 2.15.11 (special processes) and processes/procedures referenced in AWS D 15.1.
5.2 Does the manufacturer have specific procedures for weld repairs and thermal dressing to castings? Are the
requirements of Specification M-201, paragraphs 13.0 through 13.6.3 incorporated in these procedures?
6.0 Marking
6.1 Are markings in accordance with Specification M-201, paragraph 14.0?
7.0 Variation in Weight
7.1 If not covered by an individual specification, are procedures in place to ensure that weights are maintained in
accordance with the purchaser’s requirements and in accordance with Specification M-201,
paragraph 15.0.
AAR Manual of Standards and Recommended Practices

11/2016
M-201

IMPLEMENTED 04/2018
 IMPLEMENTED 04/2018
MSRP Compliance Checklist (Specification M-201) (page 6 of 6)
M-201

11/2016
Audit
Question # Question Yes No Remarks
8.0 Documents Required
8.1 Are the following documents current and available for use?
AAR Specifications:
M-201
M-1003
Other Specifications:
ASTM-A370
ASTM-E604 (may be required; see question 2.3.2 above)
ASTM-E208 (may be required; see question 2.3.3 above)
ASTM-A255
AWS D15.1
9.0 Gauges Required
9.1 Does the manufacturer make available approved gauges and are they calibrated? (Calibration
records/procedures should meet MSRP Section J, Specification M-1003, paragraph 2.8 requirements).
If gauges are not specified in a technical specification, does the manufacturer ensure that dimensions conform
to drawing tolerances provided by the purchaser or to dimensions predicated by patterns supplied by the
purchaser?
Gauge Number and Gauge Description

S [M-201] 19
See Specification M-210 for side frames ands bolsters.
Casting Details

See Specification M-211 for couplers, yokes, and knuckles.

AAR Manual of Standards and Recommended Practices
APPENDIX A
 AAR Manual of Standards and Recommended Practices
Casting Details
APPENDIX A M-201

IMPLEMENTED 04/2018
THIS PAGE LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY

S [M-201] 20 11/2016