Zinc alloys (e.g. zamak) are widely used in pressure die-cast parts; the aluminium, copper and iron contents directly affect casting quality and mechanical properties. Chemical analysis verifies that the alloy matches the declared grade. 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 (EN ISO 3815-1, ASTM E536); results are issued as an accredited test report.
Elements Determined
- Zn, Cu, Fe, Si, Al
Applied Standards
- EN ISO 3815-1 – Zinc and zinc alloys, analysis by optical emission spectrometry
- ASTM E536 – Standard test methods for chemical analysis of zinc and zinc alloys
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.