ASTM E1282-21

Standard Guide for Specifying the Chemical Compositions and Selecting Sampling Practices and Quantitative Analysis Methods for Metals, Ores, and Related Materials

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 This guide is intended to assist those writing or revising compositional specifications, sampling practices, and test methods for ferrous and non-ferrous metals, ores, and related materials. It is directed toward those areas that must be addressed to properly coordinate compositional specification, sampling practice, and test methods. Its use will help ensure that compositional requirements are clearly defined and that sampling practices and test methods are available to meet product specifications.  
4.2 This guide does not attempt to define which elements should be controlled, where samples should be taken, or how they should be analyzed. These items are addressed in standards such as Specification A276, Test Methods and Practices A751, Test Method E34, Practice E255, Test Method E342, and Test Methods E350.  
4.3 A primary purpose for ASTM sampling practices and test methods is to provide widely-accepted and tested methodology for use in meeting ASTM product specifications. Although it is recognized that individual laboratories are free to use other methods, the availability of ASTM approved methodology is essential for referee purposes and to demonstrate that properly equipped laboratories can make the required measurements.  
4.4 Sampling practices and test methods to be recommended for use in testing a given product are most easily selected cooperatively by the specification-writing and the methods-writing committees that have jurisdiction over the product. When existing sampling or test methods do not meet the needs of the new product specification standard, the specification-writing committee should request that the methods-writing committee develop the required standards. ASTM Committee E01 is responsible for test methods and practices covering the sampling and analysis of most metals, ores, and related materials.
SCOPE
1.1 This guide covers procedures for specifying compositional requirements and identifying appropriate sampling and quantitative analysis test methods to be referenced in product specification standards for metals, ores, and related materials. It is not intended to replace or conflict with either individual product specifications or standards covering broad classifications of products such as Test Methods and Practices A751.  
1.2 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.  
1.3 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-Dec-2021
• ICS: 77.040.30 - Chemical analysis of metals
• Technical Committee: E01 - Analytical Chemistry for Metals, Ores, and Related Materials
• Drafting Committee: E01.20 - Fundamental Practices

Relations

• Refers: ASTM E350-23 - Standard Test Methods for Chemical Analysis of Carbon Steel, Low-Alloy Steel, Silicon Electrical Steel, Ingot Iron, and Wrought Iron
• Effective Date: 15-Nov-2023
• Refers: ASTM E135-20 - Standard Terminology Relating to Analytical Chemistry for Metals, Ores, and Related Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2020
• Refers: ASTM E1601-19 - Standard Practice for Conducting an Interlaboratory Study to Evaluate the Performance of an Analytical Method
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-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 A751-14 - Standard Test Methods, Practices, and Terminology for Chemical Analysis of Steel Products
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-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 A276-13a - Standard Specification for Stainless Steel Bars and Shapes
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2013
• Refers: ASTM A276-13 - Standard Specification for Stainless Steel Bars and Shapes
• Effective Date: 01-May-2013
• Refers: ASTM E1601-12 - Standard Practice for Conducting an Interlaboratory Study to Evaluate the Performance of an Analytical Method
• Effective Date: 15-Dec-2012

Overview

ASTM E1282-21: Standard Guide for Specifying the Chemical Compositions and Selecting Sampling Practices and Quantitative Analysis Methods for Metals, Ores, and Related Materials provides essential guidance for developing and revising compositional specifications, sampling protocols, and quantitative analysis methods for both ferrous and non-ferrous metals, ores, and related materials. This guide is particularly valuable for professionals responsible for writing product specifications, refining existing standards, or ensuring product quality in laboratories and manufacturing environments.

Adhering to ASTM E1282-21 supports clear definition of compositional requirements, effective sampling procedures, and reliable analytical methods aligned with industry best practices. This standard helps guarantee that materials perform as intended and comply with regulatory and customer requirements.

Key Topics

• Compositional Specification Development

  • Outlining elemental requirements critical to product performance and processing
  • Avoiding unnecessary or non-justified compositional controls
  • Ensuring clarity in reporting and specifying composition ranges, maxima, and minima

• Sampling Practices

  • Selecting appropriate sampling techniques at each processing step or for each product form
  • Ensuring samples are representative, sufficient in size and form, and obtained without compromising safety or production

• Quantitative Analysis Methods

  • Identifying and selecting compatible analytical methods based on the compositional specification
  • Evaluating test methods for necessary precision, accuracy, and applicability to the specified material
  • Eliminating methods prone to uncorrectable interferences

• Coordination Between Committees

  • Facilitating collaboration between specification-writing and methods-writing committees to ensure product specifications are matched with suitable sampling and analysis protocols

Applications

ASTM E1282-21 is widely used in:

• Developing Product Specifications
  Ensures that all necessary compositional, sampling, and analytical requirements are fully addressed before new metals or ores products are introduced to the market.

• Quality Control in Manufacturing

  • Supports implementation of robust metallurgical testing and sampling processes in steel mills, foundries, refineries, and laboratories.
  • Guarantees that products consistently meet defined chemical and physical requirements.

• Referee and Regulatory Testing

  • Provides standardized references when results from different laboratories need to be compared or validated.
  • Aids in resolving disputes or verifying compliance for domestic and international trade.

• Revision of Existing Standards

  • Assists in updating technical documentation to align with current best practices in chemical composition and materials analysis.

This guide enhances overall efficiency, accuracy, and transparency in the production and specification of metals and ores, leading to higher quality materials and fewer disputes.

Related Standards

ASTM E1282-21 is harmonized with other key ASTM standards used across the metals and materials testing industry:

• ASTM A276: Specification for Stainless Steel Bars and Shapes
• ASTM A751: Test Methods and Practices for Chemical Analysis of Steel Products
• ASTM E34: Test Methods for Chemical Analysis of Aluminum and Aluminum-Base Alloys
• ASTM E255: Practice for Sampling Copper and Copper Alloys for the Determination of Chemical Composition
• ASTM E342: Test Method for Determination of Chromium Oxide in Chrome Ores
• ASTM E350: Test Methods for Chemical Analysis of Carbon Steel, Low-Alloy Steel, etc.
• ASTM E135: Terminology Relating to Analytical Chemistry for Metals, Ores, and Related Materials
• ASTM E1601: Practice for Conducting an Interlaboratory Study to Evaluate the Performance of an Analytical Method

Using ASTM E1282-21 in conjunction with these standards ensures alignment with globally accepted procedures for the chemical analysis and specification of metals, ores, and related materials. This enhances product quality, reliability, and industry confidence worldwide.

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: E1282 − 21
Standard Guide for
Specifying the Chemical Compositions and Selecting
Sampling Practices and Quantitative Analysis Methods for
Metals, Ores, and Related Materials
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E1282; 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 E255 Practice for Sampling Copper and Copper Alloys for
the Determination of Chemical Composition
1.1 This guide covers procedures for specifying composi-
E342 Test Method for Determination of Chromium Oxide in
tional requirements and identifying appropriate sampling and
Chrome Ores by Permanganate Titrimetry
quantitative analysis test methods to be referenced in product
E350 Test Methods for Chemical Analysis of Carbon Steel,
specification standards for metals, ores, and related materials.
Low-Alloy Steel, Silicon Electrical Steel, Ingot Iron, and
It is not intended to replace or conflict with either individual
Wrought Iron
product specifications or standards covering broad classifica-
E1601 Practice for Conducting an Interlaboratory Study to
tions of products such as Test Methods and Practices A751.
Evaluate the Performance of an Analytical Method
1.2 This standard does not purport to address all of the
3. Terminology
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
3.1 Definitions:
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
3.1.1 For definitions of terms used in this guide, see
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
Terminology E135.
1.3 This international standard was developed in accor-
4. Significance and Use
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
4.1 This guide is intended to assist those writing or revising
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom- compositional specifications, sampling practices, and test
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
methods for ferrous and non-ferrous metals, ores, and related
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee. materials. It is directed toward those areas that must be
addressed to properly coordinate compositional specification,
2. Referenced Documents
sampling practice, and test methods. Its use will help ensure
that compositional requirements are clearly defined and that
2.1 ASTM Standards:
sampling practices and test methods are available to meet
A276 Specification for Stainless Steel Bars and Shapes
product specifications.
A751 Test Methods and Practices for Chemical Analysis of
Steel Products
4.2 This guide does not attempt to define which elements
E34 Test Methods for Chemical Analysis of Aluminum and
should be controlled, where samples should be taken, or how
Aluminum-Base Alloys (Withdrawn 2017)
they should be analyzed. These items are addressed in stan-
E135 Terminology Relating to Analytical Chemistry for
dards such as Specification A276, Test Methods and Practices
Metals, Ores, and Related Materials
A751,TestMethodE34,PracticeE255,TestMethodE342,and
Test Methods E350.
4.3 A primary purpose for ASTM sampling practices and
This guide is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E01 on Analytical
test methods is to provide widely-accepted and tested method-
Chemistry for Metals, Ores, and Related Materials and is the direct responsibility of
ology for use in meeting ASTM product specifications. Al-
Subcommittee E01.20 on Fundamental Practices.
Current edition approved Dec. 15, 2021. Published January 2022. Originally though it is recognized that individual laboratories are free to
approved in 1989. Last previous edition approved in 2016 as E1282 – 11(2016).
use other methods, the availability of ASTM approved meth-
DOI: 10.1520/E1282-21.
odology is essential for referee purposes and to demonstrate
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
that properly equipped laboratories can make the required
contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
measurements.
the ASTM website.
4.4 Sampling practices and test methods to be recom-
The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on
www.astm.org. mended for use in testing a given product are most easily
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
E1282 − 21
TABLE 1 Example of Typical Alloy Compositional Requirements
selected cooperatively by the specification-writing and the
A
methods-writing committees that have jurisdiction over the Composition
Element
product. When existing sampling or test methods do not meet Grade A Grade B
the needs of the new product specification standard, the Carbon 0.20–0.30 0.45–0.75
Manganese 1.0, max 1.3, max
specification-writing committee should request that the
Chromium 20.0–28.5 32.5–38.0
methods-writing committee develop the required standards. B
Iron 25, min balance
ASTM Committee E01 is responsible for test methods and Copper + Vanadium 0.02, max 0.50, min
Oxygen 25 µg/g, max 50 µg/g, max
practices covering the sampling and analysis of most metals,
C
Aluminum 0.02–0.10 0.20–0.30
ores, and related materials.
A
All compositions are given in mass fraction percent, unless otherwise stated.
B
For information only. Quantitative determination of this element is not required.
C
5. Specifying Chemical Composition The aluminum composition requirement applies only to material made for
high-temperatureapplicationsanditsquantitativedeterminationisnotrequiredon
5.1 Listthoseelementswhicheitherpositivelyornegatively material designated for other uses.
influence the product’s processing, properties, or performance.
Do not list elements for which no justification exists for
6. Sampling Practices
exercising compositional control or for which no test methods
exist. Nonessential compositional specifications increase test-
6.1 Identify standard sampling practices that can be used at
ing costs with no benefit to producer or consumer.
each processing step or for each product form for which
compositional requirements are identified as described below.
5.2 Establish the compositional requirements for each ele-
6.1.1 Ensure that each selected sampling practice can be
ment identified in 5.1 as a composition range, a maximum, or
conducted without unacceptably interrupting production, inter-
a minimum. Where possible, it is desirable to express compo-
fering with product quality, or risking the health or safety of
sition in mass fraction percent. Always list the element in the
employees.
stoichiometric form in which the composition is to be reported.
6.1.2 Ensure that the selected sampling hardware and prac-
For example, depending on the material, calcium might be
tices are reliable. For example, in heat analysis sampling,
specified and reported as Ca, CaCO , or CaO. Occasionally, it
ensure that the ratio of successful (solid, non-porous, com-
may be necessary to specify that the sum of a limited number
pletely filled mol
...

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: E1282 − 11 (Reapproved 2016) E1282 − 21
Standard Guide for
Specifying the Chemical Compositions and Selecting
Sampling Practices and Quantitative Analysis Methods for
Metals, Ores, and Related Materials
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E1282; 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 guide covers procedures for specifying compositional requirements and identifying appropriate sampling and quantitative
analysis test methods to be referenced in product specification standards for metals, ores, and related materials. It is not intended
to replace or conflict with either individual product specifications or standards covering broad classifications of products such as
Test Methods and Practices A751.
1.2 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.
1.3 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.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
A276 Specification for Stainless Steel Bars and Shapes
A751 Test Methods and Practices for Chemical Analysis of Steel Products
E34 Test Methods for Chemical Analysis of Aluminum and Aluminum-Base Alloys (Withdrawn 2017)
E135 Terminology Relating to Analytical Chemistry for Metals, Ores, and Related Materials
E255 Practice for Sampling Copper and Copper Alloys for the Determination of Chemical Composition
E342 Test Method for Determination of Chromium Oxide in Chrome Ores by Permanganate Titrimetry
E350 Test Methods for Chemical Analysis of Carbon Steel, Low-Alloy Steel, Silicon Electrical Steel, Ingot Iron, and Wrought
Iron
E1601 Practice for Conducting an Interlaboratory Study to Evaluate the Performance of an Analytical Method
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions:
3.1.1 For definitions of terms used in this guide, see Terminology E135.
This guide is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E01 on Analytical Chemistry for Metals, Ores, and Related Materials and is the direct responsibility of
Subcommittee E01.20 on Fundamental Practices.
Current edition approved June 1, 2016Dec. 15, 2021. Published June 2016January 2022. Originally approved in 1989. Last previous edition approved in 20112016 as
E1282E1282 – 11–11.(2016). DOI: 10.1520/E1282-11R16.10.1520/E1282-21.
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.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
E1282 − 21
4. Significance and Use
4.1 This guide is intended to assist those writing or revising compositional specifications, sampling practices, and test methods
for ferrous and non-ferrous metals, ores, and related materials. It is directed toward those areas that must be addressed to properly
coordinate compositional specification, sampling practice, and test methods. Its use will help ensure that compositional
requirements are clearly defined and that sampling practices and test methods are available to meet product specifications.
4.2 This guide does not attempt to define which elements should be controlled, where samples should be taken, or how they should
be analyzed. These items are addressed in standards such as Specification A276, Methods, PracticesTest Methods and
TerminologyPractices A751, Test Method E34, Practice E255, Test Method E342, and Test Methods E350.
4.3 A primary purpose for ASTM sampling practices and test methods is to provide widely-accepted and tested methodology for
use in meeting ASTM product specifications. Although it is recognized that individual laboratories are free to use other methods,
the availability of ASTM approved methodology is essential for referee purposes and to demonstrate that properly equipped
laboratories can make the required measurements.
4.4 Sampling practices and test methods to be recommended for use in testing a given product are most easily selected
cooperatively by the specification-writing and the methods-writing committees that have jurisdiction over the product. When
existing sampling or test methods do not meet the needs of the new product specification standard, the specification-writing
committee should request that the methods-writing committee develop the required standards. ASTM Committee E01 is
responsible for test methods and practices covering the sampling and analysis of most metals, ores, and related materials.
5. ProcedureSpecifying Chemical Composition
5.1 List those elements which either positively or negatively influence the product’s processing, properties, or performance. Do
not list elements for which no justification exists for exercising compositional control or for which no test methods exist.
Nonessential compositional specifications increase testing costs with no benefit to producer or consumer.
5.2 Establish the compositional requirements for each element identified in 5.1 as a composition range, a maximum, or a
minimum. Where possible, it is desirable to express composition in mass fraction percent. Always list the element in the
stoichiometric form in which the composition is to be reported. For example, depending on the material, calcium might be specified
and reported as Ca, CaCO , or CaO. Occasionally, it may be necessary to specify that the sum of a limited number of specific
element compositions must not exceed some maximum value or must remain above some minimum value. Ensure that
measurement uncertainties, particularly at the lower quantitation limits, do not contribute significantly to calculated sums.
5.2.1 Nonspecific phrases such as balance or remainder may be listed for informational purposes only, but must have an
accompanying footnote stating that quantitative measurement is not required. An example of an acceptable footnote is: “For
information only. Quantitative determination of this element is not required.” Avoid assigning quantitative compositional
specifications to nonspecific items such as “all other elements” or “all residuals.” It is not possible to use element-specific test
methods to meet a non-element-specific compositional specification (Note 1).
NOTE 1—The purity of high purity metals is often best ascertained by the determination of residual elements. In these cases, each element to be determined
must be listed with either a maximum composition for each element or a minimum composition for the sum of the listed determinations. See Table 1.
5.2.2 When specifying the composition of components in a composite, define the components consistent with both commercial
requirements and testing capabilities. For example, if a specification requires that both the coating and base metal be analyzed
separately, ensure that it is possible to quantitatively separate the coating from the base metal prior to analysis.
5.2.3 If compositional requirements differ among various applications for a given alloy, it may be necessary to specify composition
by application within a grade, or to create a separate grade for those applications.
5.2.4 Refer to Table 1 as an example of a possible format for presenting compositional specifications.
5.3 Identify standard sampling practices that can be used at each processing step or for each product form for which compositional
requirements are identified as described below.
E1282 − 21
TABLE 1 Example of Typical Alloy Compositional Requirements
A
Composition
Element
Grade A Grade B
Carbon: 0.20–0.30 0.45–0.75
Carbon 0.20–0.30 0.45–0.75
Manganese: 1.0, max 1.3, max
Manganese 1.0, max 1.3, max
Chromium 20.0–28.5 32.5–38.0
B
Iron 25, min balance
Copper + Vanadium 0.02, max 0.50, min
Oxygen 25 μg/g, max 50 μg/g, max
C
Aluminum 0.02–0.10 0.20–0.30
A
All compositions are given in mass fraction percent, unless otherwise stated.
B
For information only. Quantitative determination of this element is not required.
C
The aluminum composition requirement applies only to material made for
high-temperature applications and its quantitative determination is not required on
material designated for other uses.
5.3.1 Ensure that each selected sampling practice can be conducted without unacceptably interrupting production, interfering with
product quality, or risking the health or safety of employees.
5.3.2 Ensure that the selected sampling hardware and practices are reliable. For example, in heat analysis sampling, ensure that
the ratio of successful (solid, non-porous, completely filled mold) to unsuccessful samplings is acceptable. Also, provision should
be made for resampling when needed.
5.3.3 Ensure that the composition of each element to be determined in the sample is representative of the bulk material. For
example, many commercially available molten-metal sampling devices used in the steel industry contain deoxidizing elements,
such as aluminum, which alloy with the test sample. Samples taken using such devices cannot be used to determine these elemen
...