5.1 This test method is suitable for manufacturing control and for verifying that a product meets specifications. This test method provides rapid, multi-element determinations with sufficient accuracy to ensure product quality and to 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.

5.2 Calcium is sometimes added to steel to affect inclusion shape which enhances certain mechanical properties of steel. This test method is useful for determining the residual calcium in the steel after such treatment.

5.2.1 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:

Element

Mass Fraction
Range, %

Calcium

0.001 to 0.007

Chromium

0.04 to 2.5

Cobalt

0.03 to 0.2

Copper

0.03 to 0.6

Manganese

0.04 to 2.5

Molybdenum

0.005 to 1.5

Nickel

0.04 to 3.0

Niobium

0.002 to 0.1

Phosphorus

0.010 to 0.08

Silicon

0.06 to 1.5

Sulfur

0.009 to 0.1

Vanadium

0.012 to 0.6

1.1.1 Unless exceptions are noted, mass fraction ranges can be extended and additional elements can be included by the use of suitable reference materials and measurement conditions. Deviations from the published scope must be validated by experimental means. See Guide E2857 for information on validation options.

1.2 The values stated in the International System of Units (SI) are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to other units that are provided for information only, because they may be used in older software and laboratory procedures.

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

1.4 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.