These test methods for the chemical analysis of metals and alloys are primarily intended as referee methods to test such materials for compliance with compositional specifications, particularly those under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committees A01 on Steel, Stainless Steel, and Related Alloys and A04 on Iron Castings. It is assumed that all who use these test methods will be trained analysts capable of performing common laboratory procedures skillfully and safely. It is expected that work will be performed in a properly equipped laboratory under appropriate quality control practices such as those described in Guide E 882.

1.1 These test methods cover the chemical analysis of carbon steels, low-alloy steels, silicon electrical steels, ingot iron, and wrought iron having chemical compositions within the following limits:

1.3 Test methods for the determination of several elements not included in this standard can be found in Test Methods E 30 and Test Methods E 1019.

1.4 Some of the concentration ranges given in are too broad to be covered by a single test method and therefore this standard contains multiple test methods for some elements. The user must select the proper test method by matching the information given in the Scope and Interference sections of each test method with the composition of the alloy to be analyzed.

1.5 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. In some cases, exceptions allowed in IEEE/ASTM SI 10 are also used.

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 hazards statements are given in Section and in special "Warning" paragraphs throughout these test methods.

1.6 This test method covers the determination of manganese in concentrations from 0.01 to 2.5 %.

1.7 This test method covers the determination of phosphorus in concentrations from 0.003 to 0.09 %.

1.8 The upper limit of the scope has been set at 0.09 % because sufficient numbers of test materials containing higher phosphorus contents were unavailable for testing in accordance with Practice E 173. However, recognizing that the chemical principles used in this test method are capable of handling higher concentrations, the test method includes a calibration procedure up to 0.25 %. Users of this test method are cautioned that its use above 0.09 % is not supported by interlaboratory testing.