The strength, machinability and corrosion properties of aluminium alloys depend on their alloying elements. Chemical analysis verifies that sections, sheet, castings and forgings match the declared alloy (e.g. EN AW-6082, EN AC-46000). Analysis is performed with a spark optical emission spectrometer (spark OES): a spark on the specimen surface excites the elements so that each emits light at its own wavelength, and element contents are determined in percent from the light intensity.
The test is performed with a method accredited by TÜRKAK under TS EN ISO/IEC 17025 (ASTM E1251, EN 14726); results are issued as an accredited test report.
Elements Determined
- Al, Cu, Mg, Si, Fe, Mn, Cr, Ni, Zn, Ti, Pb, Sn, Cd, V, Co
Applied Standards
- ASTM E1251 – Analysis of aluminium and aluminium alloys by spark atomic emission spectrometry
- EN 14726 – Aluminium and aluminium alloys, chemical analysis, guidelines for spark optical emission spectrometric analysis
Specimens and Reporting
The specimen needs a flat surface of at least 15 mm diameter for analysis; the surface is cut and ground in our laboratory. Several sparks are taken on each specimen and the mean is reported; on request, results are compared with the limits of the relevant material standard.