5.1 The chemical measurement processes covered by this guide are used for determination of carbon, sulfur, nitrogen, oxygen and hydrogen in metals, ores and related materials. A test method utilizing this guidance is used to test such materials, and also form the basis for quality assurance of these materials. Thus, it is economically and scientifically critical that these instruments be understood by the laboratories that use them.

5.2 It is assumed that all who use this guide will be trained analysts, capable of performing common laboratory procedures skillfully, and safely. It is expected that any work will be performed in a properly equipped laboratory.

5.3 It is expected that the laboratory will prepare their own work procedures for any of the information described in this guide.

5.4 This guide contains numerous references to “manufacturer’s recommendations”. The user of this guide is expected to refer to the instrument operation manual for the specific instrument being used or consult directly with the manufacturer to obtain instructions or recommendations.

5.5 This guide stresses the conservation of certified reference materials (CRMs). CRMs are not to be used for drift checks or conditioning measurements. Other materials should be developed and used for these operations.

1.1 This guide covers information for using combustion, inert gas fusion and hot extraction instruments to determine the mass fraction of the non-metallic elements carbon, sulfur, nitrogen, oxygen and hydrogen in metals, ores and related materials.

1.2 This guide does not specify all the operating conditions because of the differences among different manufacturer’s instruments. Laboratories should follow instructions provided by the manufacturer of the instrument.

1.3 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

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 The information in this guide is contained in the sections indicated as follows:

Sections

Carbon/Sulfur by Combustion/Infrared Detection

14 – 19

Nitrogen/Oxygen by Inert Gas Fusion/Thermal Conductivity and Infrared Detection

20 – 25

Hydrogen by Inert Gas Fusion and Hot Extraction/Various Detection Cell Technology

26 – 31

1.6 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.