This procedure is suitable for manufacturing control and for verifying that the product meets specifications. This test method provides rapid, multielement determinations with sufficient accuracy to ensure product quality and minimize production delays. The analytical performance data may be used as a benchmark to determine if similar X-ray spectrometers provide equivalent precision and accuracy, or if the performance of a particular X-ray spectrometer has changed.

Calcium is sometimes added to steel to effect inclusion shape control in order to enhance certain mechanical properties of steel. This test method is useful for determining the residual calcium in the steel after such treatment.

Because calcium occurs primarily in inclusions, the precision of this test method is a function of the distribution of the calcium-bearing inclusions in the steel. The variation of determinations on freshly prepared surfaces will give some indication of the distribution of these inclusions.

1.1 This test method covers the wavelength dispersive X-ray fluorescence analysis of low-alloy steels for the following elements:

1.2 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.

1.3 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 and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. Specific precautionary statements are given in Section 10.