Steel chemical analysis shows whether the material matches the ordered grade (e.g. S355, 42CrMo4, C45), its weldability and whether materials have been mixed up. 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 E415, ASTM E2209; sample preparation EN ISO 14284); results are issued as an accredited test report.
Elements Determined
- Carbon and low-alloy steels (ASTM E415): C, Si, Mn, P, S, Cr, Mo, Ni, Al, Cu, Pb, V
- High-manganese steels (ASTM E2209): C, Si, Mn, P, Cr, Mo, Ni
- Carbon equivalent (CEV, CET, Pcm) on request
Applied Standards
- ASTM E415 – Analysis of carbon and low-alloy steel by spark atomic emission spectrometry
- ASTM E2209 – Analysis of high manganese steel by spark OES
- EN ISO 14284 – Steel and iron, sampling and preparation of samples for the determination of chemical composition
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.