This International Standard specifies a method for designating test specimen axes in relation to product texture by means of an X-Y-Z orthogonal coordinate system.

The system applies equally to unnotched and notched (or precracked) test specimens.

The method is intended only for metallic materials with uniform texture that can be unambiguously determined.

Test specimen orientation is decided before specimen machining, identified in accordance with the designation system specified in this International Standard, and recorded.