Scope:

The ASTM E1086 standard specifies a test process for identifying the chemical composition and desirable metallurgical properties of stainless steels with accuracy. It can be used for austenitic stainless steel production control and inspection tests. The ASTM E1086 test method is intended for regular analysis of cold cast discs, as well as for the examination and testing of stainless steel samples with a flat surface and a minimum diameter of 13 millimetres. Foundries, fabricators, metal recyclers, warehouses, and metal processing plants are benefited by this test.

Test Procedure:

A controlled discharge is produced between the flat surface of the specimen and the counter electrode. The radiant energy of selected analytical lines is converted into electrical energies by photomultiplier tubes and stored on capacitors. The discharge is terminated at a predetermined level of accumulated radiant energy from the internal standard iron line or after a fixed integration time. At the end of the integration period, the charge on each capacitor is measured and displayed or recorded as relative energy or mass fraction %. 

 Specimen size:

ASTM E1086 test specimen is homogenous and free from voids and pits in the region to be excited and generally, the test specimen is disk-shaped. 

Data:

The chemical composition of stainless steel must be determined accurately to ensure the desired metallurgical properties.