ASTM E1086-22

Standard Test Method for Analysis of Austenitic Stainless Steel by Spark Atomic Emission Spectrometry

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 The chemical composition of stainless steels must be determined accurately to ensure the desired metallurgical properties. This test method is suitable for manufacturing control and inspection testing.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method2 covers the analysis of austenitic stainless steel by spark atomic emission spectrometry for the following elements in the ranges shown    
Element  
Composition Range, %  
Chromium  
17.0 to 23.0  
Nickel  
7.5 to 13.0  
Molybdenum  
0.01 to 3.0    
Manganese  
0.01 to 2.0    
Silicon  
0.01 to 0.90  
Copper  
0.01 to 0.30  
Carbon  
0.005 to 0.25  
Phosphorus  
0.003 to 0.15  
Sulfur  
0.003 to 0.065  
1.2 This test method is designed for the analysis of chill-cast disks or inspection testing of stainless steel samples that have a flat surface of at least 13 mm (0.5 in.) in diameter. The samples must be sufficiently massive to prevent overheating during the discharge and of a similar metallurgical condition and composition as the reference materials.  
1.3 One or more of the reference materials must closely approximate the composition of the specimen. The technique of analyzing reference materials with unknowns and performing the indicated mathematical corrections (typically referred to as type standardization) may also be used to correct for interference effects and to compensate for errors resulting from instrument drift. A variety of such systems are commonly used. Any of these that will achieve analytical accuracy equivalent to that reported for this test method are acceptable.  
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 14-Aug-2022
• ICS: 77.040.30 - Chemical analysis of metals
• ICS: 77.140.20 - Stainless steels
• Technical Committee: E01 - Analytical Chemistry for Metals, Ores, and Related Materials
• Drafting Committee: E01.01 - Iron, Steel, and Ferroalloys

Relations

• Refers: ASTM E135-20 - Standard Terminology Relating to Analytical Chemistry for Metals, Ores, and Related Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2020
• Refers: ASTM E406-19 - Standard Practice for Using Controlled Atmospheres in Atomic Emission Spectrometry
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2019
• Refers: ASTM E135-19 - Standard Terminology Relating to Analytical Chemistry for Metals, Ores, and Related Materials
• Effective Date: 15-May-2019
• Refers: ASTM E135-16 - Standard Terminology Relating to Analytical Chemistry for Metals, Ores, and Related Materials
• Effective Date: 15-May-2016
• Refers: ASTM E135-15a - Standard Terminology Relating to Analytical Chemistry for Metals, Ores, and Related Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2015
• Refers: ASTM E135-15 - Standard Terminology Relating to Analytical Chemistry for Metals, Ores, and Related Materials
• Effective Date: 15-May-2015
• Refers: ASTM E135-14b - Standard Terminology Relating to Analytical Chemistry for Metals, Ores, and Related Materials
• Effective Date: 15-Aug-2014
• Refers: ASTM E135-14a - Standard Terminology Relating to Analytical Chemistry for Metals, Ores, and Related Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2014
• Refers: ASTM E135-14 - Standard Terminology Relating to Analytical Chemistry for Metals, Ores, and Related Materials
• Effective Date: 15-Feb-2014
• Refers: ASTM E135-13a - Standard Terminology Relating to Analytical Chemistry for Metals, Ores, and Related Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2013
• Refers: ASTM E406-81(2012) - Standard Practice for Using Controlled Atmospheres in Spectrochemical Analysis
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2012
• Refers: ASTM E135-11b - Standard Terminology Relating to Analytical Chemistry for Metals, Ores, and Related Materials
• Effective Date: 15-Sep-2011
• Refers: ASTM E135-11a - Standard Terminology Relating to Analytical Chemistry for Metals, Ores, and Related Materials
• Effective Date: 15-Jun-2011
• Refers: ASTM E135-11 - Standard Terminology Relating to Analytical Chemistry for Metals, Ores, and Related Materials
• Effective Date: 15-Jan-2011
• Refers: ASTM E1329-10 - Standard Practice for Verification and Use of Control Charts in Spectrochemical Analysis (Withdrawn 2019)
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2010

Overview

ASTM E1086-22 is the internationally recognized standard test method for the analysis of austenitic stainless steel by spark atomic emission spectrometry (AES). Published by ASTM International, this standard facilitates accurate determination of key chemical elements in stainless steel samples, supporting manufacturing quality, metallurgical properties, and product integrity. By following this method, laboratories and manufacturers can reliably measure levels of chromium, nickel, molybdenum, manganese, silicon, copper, carbon, phosphorus, and sulfur-critical components that define austenitic stainless steel grades.

This method is suitable for both routine manufacturing control and inspection testing, reflecting best practices for ensuring that stainless steels adhere to specified chemical composition requirements.

Key Topics

• Analyzed Elements and Ranges: ASTM E1086-22 specifies the analysis for the following elements within these ranges:

  • Chromium: 17.0 - 23.0%
  • Nickel: 7.5 - 13.0%
  • Molybdenum: 0.01 - 3.0%
  • Manganese: 0.01 - 2.0%
  • Silicon: 0.01 - 0.90%
  • Copper: 0.01 - 0.30%
  • Carbon: 0.005 - 0.25%
  • Phosphorus: 0.003 - 0.15%
  • Sulfur: 0.003 - 0.065%

• Sample Requirements:

  • Suitable for chill-cast disks or stainless steel samples with a flat surface at least 13 mm (0.5 in.) in diameter.
  • Samples must be sufficiently thick to prevent overheating and must match the metallurgical condition of reference materials.

• Reference Materials & Calibration:

  • Requires certified or suitably characterized reference materials with composition similar to test specimens.
  • Analytical accuracy is maintained through standardization and drift correction, using mathematical corrections and verifiers as necessary.

• Test Method Overview:

  • Spark atomic emission spectrometry involves creating a controlled electrical discharge between the sample and a counter electrode.
  • The resulting emission is measured and compared against calibration records to determine precise element concentrations.

• Precision and Bias:

  • Offers guidance on laboratory repeatability, interlaboratory reproducibility, and procedures for verifying measurement accuracy.

Applications

ASTM E1086-22 plays a crucial role in industries where austenitic stainless steel is manufactured, fabricated, or utilized, including:

• Steel manufacturing: Enables quality control and process optimization by providing accurate elemental composition analyses.
• Metal inspection and certification: Used for acceptance testing, verifying that alloys meet specified chemistries.
• Component fabrication: Ensures that starting materials possess the correct chemistry for desired mechanical and corrosion-resistant properties.
• Research and development: Supports materials engineering and alloy development by delivering reliable chemical data.
• Quality assurance laboratories: Facilitates compliance with international standards and industry specifications.

By leveraging spark atomic emission spectrometry as detailed in this standard, organizations can reduce the risk of non-conforming material, deliver high-performance stainless steel products, and maintain customer trust.

Related Standards

ASTM E1086-22 incorporates or references several related standards to support effective chemical analysis of metals:

• ASTM E29 - Practice for Using Significant Digits in Test Data
• ASTM E135 - Terminology Relating to Analytical Chemistry for Metals, Ores, and Related Materials
• ASTM E305 - Practice for Establishing and Controlling Spark Atomic Emission Analytical Curves
• ASTM E406 - Practice for Using Controlled Atmospheres in Atomic Emission Spectrometry
• ASTM E1806 - Practice for Sampling Steel and Iron for Determination of Chemical Composition

These associated documents ensure robust, standardized procedures throughout the analysis, from sampling to calibration and data interpretation.

Keywords: austenitic stainless steel, spark atomic emission spectrometry, ASTM E1086, chemical analysis, stainless steel testing, steel composition, quality control, laboratory standards, metallurgical properties

Standards Content (Sample)

This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: E1086 − 22
Standard Test Method for
Analysis of Austenitic Stainless Steel by Spark Atomic
Emission Spectrometry
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E1086; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope 1.5 This international standard was developed in accor-
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
1.1 This test method covers the analysis of austenitic
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
stainless steel by spark atomic emission spectrometry for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
following elements in the ranges shown
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
Element Composition Range, %
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Chromium 17.0 to 23.0
Nickel 7.5 to 13.0
Molybdenum 0.01 to 3.0
2. Referenced Documents
Manganese 0.01 to 2.0
Silicon 0.01 to 0.90 2.1 ASTM Standards:
Copper 0.01 to 0.30
E29 Practice for Using Significant Digits in Test Data to
Carbon 0.005 to 0.25
Determine Conformance with Specifications
Phosphorus 0.003 to 0.15
Sulfur 0.003 to 0.065 E135 Terminology Relating to Analytical Chemistry for
Metals, Ores, and Related Materials
1.2 Thistestmethodisdesignedfortheanalysisofchill-cast
E305 Practice for Establishing and Controlling Spark
disks or inspection testing of stainless steel samples that have
Atomic Emission Spectrochemical Analytical Curves
a flat surface of at least 13 mm (0.5 in.) in diameter. The
E406 Practice for Using Controlled Atmospheres in Atomic
samples must be sufficiently massive to prevent overheating
Emission Spectrometry
during the discharge and of a similar metallurgical condition
E1060 Practice for Interlaboratory Testing of Spectrochemi-
and composition as the reference materials.
cal Methods of Analysis (Withdrawn 1997)
1.3 One or more of the reference materials must closely
E1329 Practice for Verification and Use of Control Charts in
approximate the composition of the specimen. The technique 4
Spectrochemical Analysis (Withdrawn 2019)
of analyzing reference materials with unknowns and perform-
E1806 Practice for Sampling Steel and Iron for Determina-
ing the indicated mathematical corrections (typically referred
tion of Chemical Composition
to as type standardization) may also be used to correct for
2.2 Other ASTM Documents:
interference effects and to compensate for errors resulting from
MNL 7 Manual on Presentation of Data and Control Chart
instrument drift.Avariety of such systems are commonly used.
Analysis
Anyofthesethatwillachieveanalyticalaccuracyequivalentto
that reported for this test method are acceptable.
3. Terminology
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the
3.1 Definitions—For definitions of terms used in this test
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
method, refer to Terminology E135.
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
4. Summary of Test Method
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
4.1 A controlled discharge is produced between the flat
surface of the specimen and the counter electrode. The radiant
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E01 on
Analytical Chemistry for Metals, Ores, and Related Materials and is the direct
responsibility of Subcommittee E01.01 on Iron, Steel, and Ferroalloys. For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Current edition approved Aug. 15, 2022. Published September 2022. Originally contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
approved in 1985. Last previous edition approved in 2014 as E1086 – 14. DOI: Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
10.1520/E1086-22. the ASTM website.
2 4
Supporting data have been filed at ASTM International Headquarters and may The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on
beobtainedbyrequestingResearchReportRR:E02-1023.ContactASTMCustomer www.astm.org.
Service at [e-mail]. ASTM Manual Series, ASTM International, 9th edition, 2018.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
E1086 − 22
TABLE 1 Analytical and Internal Standard Lines
energies of selected analytical lines are converted into electri-
cal energies by photomultiplier tubes and stored on capacitors. Mass Fraction %
Element Wavelength, nm Switch Over
The discharge is terminated at a predetermined level of
Points
accumulated radiant energy from the internal standard iron line
Chromium 298.919
or after a fixed integration time. At the end of the integration
Nickel 243.789
227.021
period,thechargeoneachcapacitorismeasured,anddisplayed
218.549
or recorded as a relative energy or mass fraction %.
216.910
Molybdenum 202.030 < 1 %
5. Significance and Use
281.615
308.561 > 1 %
5.1 The chemical composition of stainless steels must be
369.265
determined accurately to ensure the desired metallurgical
Manganese 293.306
A
Silicon 251.612
properties. This test method is suitable for manufacturing
288.158
control and inspection testing.
Copper 327.396 < 0.10 %
224.699 > 0.10 %
6. Apparatus
Carbon 193.092
A
Phosphorus 178.287
6.1 Sampling and Sample Preparation Equipment:
Sulfur 180.731
B
6.1.1 Refer to Practice E1806 for devices and practices to Iron 271.441
322.775
sample liquid and solid steel.
A
Silicon 251.612 can have a small but significant interference from molybdenum
6.1.2 Abrasive Grinder, a suitable belt grinder, horizontal
251.611. Phosphorus 178.287 may show small but significant interferences from
disk grinder, or similar grinding apparatus. The resulting
unlisted lines or background due to molybdenum, chromium, and manganese.
surface should be uniformly plane and free of defects. These
Interference corrections will not be necessary if: separate silicon and phosphorus
curves are used for 316 and 317 alloys; the manganese content varies only
may be either wet or dry grinding devices. Grinding materials
between 0.7 % and 1.5 %; and the chromium content is held between 17 % and
with grit sizes ranging from 60 to 180 have been found
20 %.
B
satisfactory.
Either iron line 271.441 or 322.775 with narrow entrance and exit slits to avoid
interference from manganese 322.809 can be used as an internal standard line
6.2 Excitation Source, with parameters capable of produc-
with any of the listed analytical lines. Iron 271.441 is not appropriate for tungsten
tool steels or super alloys with high cobalt because of interference from cobalt
ing a usable spectrum in accordance with 11.1.
271.442.
6.3 Excitation Stand, suitable for mounting in optical
alignment, a flat surface of the specimen in opposition to a
counter electrode. The stand shall provide an atmosphere of
7. Reagents and Materials
argon and may be water cooled. Counter electrodes and argon
are described in 7.1 and 7.2.
7.1 Argon, must be of sufficient purity (gas or liquid supply)
to permit proper excitation of the analytical lines of interest.
6.4 Spectrometer, having sufficient resolving power and
linear dispersion to separate clearly the analytical lines from Argon of 99.998 % purity has been found satisfactory. Refer to
Practice E406.
other lines in the spectrum of a specimen in the spectral region
170.0 nm to 500.0 nm. Spectrometer characteristics for two of
7.2 Counter Electrodes, can vary in diameter from 1.5 mm
theinstrumentsusedinthistestmethodaredescribedashaving
to 6.5 mm (depending on the instrument manufacturer) and
dispersion of 0.697 nm/mm (first order), and a focal length of
typically are machined to a 90° or 120° angled tip. Silver or
1 m. Spectral lines are listed in Table 1.
tungsten rods are typically used. Other material may be used
provided it can be shown experimentally that equivalent
6.5 Measuring System, consisting of photomultiplier tubes
precision and accuracy are obtained.
having individual voltage adjustment, capacitors on which the
output of each photomultiplier tube is stored and an electronic
8. Reference Materials
system to measure voltages on the capacitors either directly or
indirectly, and the necessary switching arrangements to pro-
8.1 Certified Reference Materials (CRMs) are available
vide the desired sequence of operation.
from NIST and other international metrology organizations.
6.6 Readout, capable of indicating the ratio of the analytical
8.2 Reference Materials (RMs) with matrices similar to that
lines to the internal standard line with sufficient precision to
of the test specimen and containing varying amounts of the
produce the accuracy of analysis desired.
elements to be determined may be used provided they have
been chemically analyzed in accordance with ASTM E01
6.7 Vacuum Pump, capable of maintaining a vacuum of 25
standard test methods. These reference materials shall be
µm Hg or less.
homogeneous, and free of voids or porosity.
6.8 Gas System, consisting of an argon supply with pressure
8.3 The reference materials shall cover the ranges of the
andflowregulation.Automaticsequencingshallbeprovidedto
elementsbeingsought.Aminimumofthreereferencematerials
actuate the flow at a given rate for a specific time interval. The
shall be used for each element.
flow rate may be manually or automatically controlled. The
argon system shall be in accordance with Practice E406.
NOTE 1—It is not within the scope of this test method to prescribe all Available from National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), 100
details of equipment to be used. Equipment varies among manufacturers. Bureau Dr., Stop 1070, Gaithersburg, MD 20899-1070, http://www.nist.gov.
E1086 − 22
9. Preparation of Samples permits, perform random excitations of each calibration RM
and drift correction sample and repeat with different random
9.1 Thespecimensandreferencematerialsmustbeprepared
sequences at least four times. Follow the spectrometer manu-
in the same manner. A specimen cut from a large sample
facturer’s software procedures to convert sample intensities
section must be of sufficient size and thickness for preparation
into mass fraction %. Using the averages of the data for each
and to properly fit the spectrometer
...

This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: E1086 − 14 E1086 − 22
Standard Test Method for
Analysis of Austenitic Stainless Steel by Spark Atomic
Emission Spectrometry
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E1086; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope
1.1 This test method covers the analysis of austenitic stainless steel by spark atomic emission vacuum spectrometry for the
following elements in the ranges shown
Element Composition Range, %
Chromium 17.0 to 23.0
Nickel 7.5 to 13.0
Molybdenum 0.01 to 3.0
Manganese 0.01 to 2.0
Silicon 0.01 to 0.90
Copper 0.01 to 0.30
Carbon 0.005 to 0.25
Phosphorus 0.003 to 0.15
Sulfur 0.003 to 0.065
1.2 This test method is designed for the routine analysis of chill-cast disks or inspection testing of stainless steel samples that have
a flat surface of at least 13 mm (0.5 in.) in diameter. The samples must be sufficiently massive to prevent overheating during the
discharge and of a similar metallurgical condition and composition as the reference materials.
1.3 One or more of the reference materials must closely approximate the composition of the specimen. The technique of analyzing
reference materials with unknowns and performing the indicated mathematical corrections (typically referred to as type
standardization) may also be used to correct for interference effects and to compensate for errors resulting from instrument drift.
A variety of such systems are commonly used. Any of these that will achieve analytical accuracy equivalent to that reported for
this test method are acceptable.
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility
of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety safety, health, and healthenvironmental practices and determine the
applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization
established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued
by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E01 on Analytical Chemistry for Metals, Ores, and Related Materials and is the direct responsibility of
Subcommittee E01.01 on Iron, Steel, and Ferroalloys.
Current edition approved March 1, 2014Aug. 15, 2022. Published April 2014September 2022. Originally approved in 1985. Last previous edition approved in 20082014
as E1086 – 08.E1086 – 14. DOI: 10.1520/E1086-14.10.1520/E1086-22.
Supporting data have been filed at ASTM International Headquarters and may be obtained by requesting Research Report RR:E02-1023. Contact ASTM Customer
Service at [e-mail].
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
E1086 − 22
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
E29 Practice for Using Significant Digits in Test Data to Determine Conformance with Specifications
E135 Terminology Relating to Analytical Chemistry for Metals, Ores, and Related Materials
E305 Practice for Establishing and Controlling Spark Atomic Emission Spectrochemical Analytical Curves
E406 Practice for Using Controlled Atmospheres in Atomic Emission Spectrometry
E1060 Practice for Interlaboratory Testing of Spectrochemical Methods of Analysis (Withdrawn 1997)
E1329 Practice for Verification and Use of Control Charts in Spectrochemical Analysis (Withdrawn 2019)
E1806 Practice for Sampling Steel and Iron for Determination of Chemical Composition
2.2 Other ASTM Documents:
ASTM MNL 7 Manual on Presentation of Data and Control Chart Analysis
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions—For definitions of terms used in this test method, refer to Terminology E135.
4. Summary of Test Method
4.1 A controlled discharge is produced between the flat surface of the specimen and the counter electrode. The radiant
energyenergies of selected analytical lines are converted into electrical energies by photomultiplier tubes and stored on capacitors.
The discharge is terminated at a predetermined level of accumulated radiant energy from the internal standard iron line or after
a fixed integration time. At the end of the integration period, the charge on each capacitor is measured, and displayed or recorded
as a relative energy or mass fraction %.
5. Significance and Use
5.1 The chemical composition of stainless steels must be determined accurately to ensure the desired metallurgical properties. This
procedure test method is suitable for manufacturing control and inspection testing.
6. Apparatus
6.1 Sampling and Sample Preparation Equipment:
6.1.1 Refer to Practice E1806 for devices and practices to sample liquid and solid steel.
6.1.2 Abrasive Grinder, a suitable belt grinder, horizontal disk grinder, or similar grinding apparatus. The resulting surface should
be uniformly plane and free of defects. These may be either wet or dry grinding devices. Grinding materials with grit sizes ranging
from 60 to 180 have been found satisfactory.
6.2 Excitation Source, with parameters capable of producing a usable spectrum in accordance with 11.1.
6.3 Excitation Stand, suitable for mounting in optical alignment, a flat surface of the specimen in opposition to a counter electrode.
The stand shall provide an atmosphere of argon and may be water cooled. Counter electrodes and argon are described in 7.1 and
7.2.
6.4 Spectrometer, having sufficient resolving power and linear dispersion to separate clearly the analytical lines from other lines
in the spectrum of a specimen in the spectral region 170.0 nm to 500.0 nm. Spectrometer characteristics for two of the instruments
used in this test method are described as having dispersion of 0.697 nm/mm (first order), and a focal length of 1 m. Spectral lines
are listed in Table 1.
6.5 Measuring System, consisting of photomultiplier tubes having individual voltage adjustment, capacitors on which the output
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on www.astm.org.
ASTM Manual Series, ASTM International, 8th9th edition, 2010.2018.
E1086 − 22
TABLE 1 Analytical and Internal Standard Lines
Mass Fraction %
Element Wavelength, nm Switch Over
Points
Chromium 298.919
Nickel 243.789
227.021
218.549
216.910
Molybdenum 202.030 < 1 %
281.615
308.561 > 1 %
369.265
Manganese 293.306
A
Silicon 251.612
288.158
Copper 327.396 < 0.10 %
224.699 > 0.10 %
Carbon 193.092
A
Phosphorus 178.287
Sulfur 180.731
B
Iron 271.441
322.775
A
Silicon 251.612 can have a small but significant interference from molybdenum
251.611. Phosphorus 178.287 may show small but significant interferences from
unlisted lines or background due to molybdenum, chromium, and manganese.
Interference corrections will not be necessary if: separate silicon and phosphorus
curves are used for 316 and 317 alloys; the manganese content varies only
between 0.7 % and 1.5 %; and the chromium concentrationcontent is held
between 17 % and 20 %.
B
Either iron line 271.441 or 322.775 with narrow entrance and exit slits to avoid
interference from manganese 322.809 can be used as an internal standard line
with any of the listed analytical lines. Iron 271.441 is not appropriate for tungsten
tool steels or super alloys with high cobalt because of interference from cobalt
271.442.
of each photomultiplier tube is stored and an electronic system to measure voltages on the capacitors either directly or indirectly,
and the necessary switching arrangements to provide the desired sequence of operation.
6.6 Readout Console, Readout, capable of indicating the ratio of the analytical lines to the internal standard line with sufficient
precision to produce the accuracy of analysis desired.
6.7 Vacuum Pump, capable of maintaining a vacuum of 25 μm Hg or less.
6.8 Gas System, consisting of an argon supply with pressure and flow regulation. Automatic sequencing shall be provided to
actuate the flow at a given rate for a specific time interval. The flow rate may be manually or automatically controlled. The argon
system shall be in accordance with Practice E406.
NOTE 1—It is not within the scope of this test method to prescribe all details of equipment to be used. Equipment varies among laboratories.manufacturers.
7. Reagents and Materials
7.1 Argon, either gaseous or liquid, must be of sufficient purity (gas or liquid supply) to permit proper excitation of the analytical
lines of interest. Argon of 99.998 % purity has been found satisfactory. Refer to Practice E406.
7.2 Counter Electrodes, can vary in diameter from 1.5 mm to 6.5 mm (depending on the instrument manufacturer) and typically
are machined to a 90° or 120° angled tip. Silver or thoriated tungsten rods are typically used. Other material may be used provided
it can be shown experimentally that equivalent precision and accuracy are obtained.
E1086 − 22
8. Reference Materials
8.1 Certified Reference Materials (CRMs) are available from the National Institute of Standards and TechnologyNIST and other
international certification agencies.metrology organizations.
8.2 Reference Materials (RMs) with matrices similar to that of the test specimen and containing varying amounts of the elements
to be determined may be used provided they have been chemically analyzed in accordance with ASTM E01 standard test methods.
These reference materials shall be homogeneous, and free of voids or porosity.
8.3 The reference materials shall cover the concentration ranges of the elements being sought. A minimum of three reference
materials shall be used for each element.
9. Preparation of Samples
9.1 The specimens and reference materials must be prepared in the same manner. A specimen cut from a large sample section must
be of sufficient size and thickness for preparation and to properly fit the spectrometer stand.
9.2 Ensure the specimens are homogenous and free from voids and pits in the region to be excited. Grind the surface with an
abrasive belt or disc. Refer to 6.1.2. Perform the final grind with a dry abrasive belt or disc.
10. Preparation of Apparatus
10.1 Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for verifying the optical alignment of the entrance slit and programming the
appropriate wavelengths (Table 1).
11. Excitation and Integration
11.1 Electrical Parameters—Two different types of sources were employed in the testing interlaboratory study (ILS) of this test
method.
11.1.1 Directional Self-Initiating Capacitor Disc
...