CARBON IN CAST IRON WITH ADVANCED OES TECHNOLOGY SPECTROMAXx — SPECTROLAB Excellent performance. Unprecedented ease of use. Carbon in cast iron The Analytical Challenge Carbon has been the reducing agent used to liberate metallic iron from its ores since the earliest times. A few tenths of one percent difference in carbon content can have a dramatic effect on the mechanical properties of iron and steel, making accurate carbon measurement a critical production issue. Until the 1980’s, the combustion method was the standard technique for determining total carbon levels in iron making. However while highly accurate, this method is a very time consuming and laborious process. In recent decades, the optical emission spectrometry (OES) method, which uses an electric spark source, became popular. But this method is prone to errors due to the material’s granular nature and the presence of free-carbon particles. Until now eliminating these errors depended on perfect sample taking and preparation techniques, that require highly skilled and experienced technicians. OES TECHNOLOGY AND CAST IRON: THE MEASUREMENT PROBLEM When analyzing granular metals with the OES method, it is normal to use a “pre-spark” or “pre-burn” before the actual measurement. These processes generate thousands of high-energy sparks to melt and homogenize the sample surface before measurement. If free graphite inclusions are present, the pre-spark results in sublimation of some or all of the graphite before the measurement takes place, leading to depressed carbon values. In Figure 1 the small black dots are graphite inclusions. The dark center is due to the fact that in the center the ablation was deeper. However, it is clearly visible that there is a belt around Figure 1: Re-polished sample the center without any remaining graphite inclusions. The inclusions are sublimated; with pre-spark crater bypassing the liquid phase completely. Better Technology for DIGITALLY CONTROLLED GREATER UV PERFORMANCE Superior Performance PLASMA GENERATOR The SPECTROMAXx and SPECTROLAB The UV optic’s atmosphere must be free SPECTRO’s advanced OES plasma generators are fully digitally con-of water vapor and oxygen to eliminate carbon analysis technology trol ed for more accurate and reproduc-absorption effects. SPECTROLAB’s unique excels across the four key ible spark definition. This delivers greater UV-PLUS system contains a hermetically sealed requirements for superior precision, better repeatability, faster optical chamber that is filled just once with carbon measurement measurement, and less impact from argon. Impurities are removed by a built-in performance. external interference. filter cartridge, reducing operating costs and extending maintenance intervals. The Solution: Advanced OES technology from SPECTRO SPECTRO Analytical Instruments has developed an analytical solution that combines the accuracy of the combustion method with the speed and ease-of use of OES. Incorporated in its SPECTROLAB and SPECTROMAXx systems, this advanced OES technology makes it possible to precisely detect and analyze samples containing free graphite with results comparable to those achieved by combustion analysis. The SPECTROMAXx and the SPECTROLAB Figure 2: Pre-Spark Intensities - instruments can monitor carbon emissions graphite-free sample during the pre-spark phase to detect the presence of free graphite and select analytical conditions that minimize its effects. In analysis, the better the quality of the sample, the better the quality of the result; this approach also uses a statistical method to detect bad samples automatically. Figure 3: Pre-Spark Intensities - sample containing 0.5% w/w free graphite Sample Carbon value Carbon value Carbon measured determined with the combustion traditionally Fe-25 method COMPARISON OF RESULTS 1a (slowly chilled, <=0.2% graphite) 3.54 % 3.63 % 3.623 % The table compares carbon results 1b (very slowly chilled >=0.5% graphite, 3.19 % 3.64 % 3.679 % same heat as sample 1a) measured with traditional, combustion, Difference between sample 1a and 1b 0.350 % -0.010 % -0.056 % and new Fe-25 methods. 8a (slowly chilled, <=0.2% graphite) 3.58 % 3.66 % 3.589 % 8b (very slowly chilled >=0.5% graphite, 3.29 % 3.62 % 3.664 % same heat as sample 8a) Difference between sample 8a and 8b 0.290 % 0.040 % -0.075 % 16a (slowly chilled, <=0.2% graphite) 3.52 % 3.69 % 3.599 % 16b (grey >=0.5% graphite, 3.15 % 3.68 % 3.666 % same heat as sample 16a) Difference between sample 16a and 16b 0.370 % 0.010 % -0.067 % SOPHISTICATED DATA PROCESSING HIGHER OPTICAL RESOLUTION The SPECTROLAB and SPECTROMAXx produce data The SPECTROMAXx is equipped exclusively with that enables the coverage of the spectrum relevant for CCDs. For those requiring minimal trace analysis and iron analysis. In addition to the output of results for time-dependent spark examination, the SPECTROLAB individual elements, the data can be sorted according to offers either the advanced CMOS+T technology or a measurement, configuration, or readout of the wavelength combination of CCDs and PMTs in a single, powerful scan. instrument. SPECTROMAXx & SPECTROLAB Sophisticated Technology SPECTROMAXx SPECTROLAB COMPLETE LINE OF METAL ANALYZERS The SPECTROMAXx offers a perfect combination of Both the CMOS+T and the third-generation SPECTROMAXx stands beside SPECTRO’s robust hardware and simply easy operation. Covering hybrid SPECTROLAB models offer excellent optical flagship SPECTROLAB, a market leader for the wavelength range from 146nm to 780nm, fixed performance for metals industry applications, i.e. low ultra-precise analysis, plus the entry-level methods, including element selection and calibration detection limits, super fast analysis time, ultimate SPECTROCHECK, offering high performance and ranges for a total of 10 different matrices, are elemental flexibility and spectacular stability. dependability at a very competitive low price. available. Focal length for both models is 750 mm, covering the It’s complemented as well by SPECTRO’s mobile wavelength range from 120 nm to 770 nm for the product line, with the SPECTROTEST mobile https://www.spectro.com/maxx SPECTROLAB S and 120 nm to 560 nm (optional to analyzer, the SPECTRO xSORT XRF handheld 766 nm) for the Hybrid model. analyzer, and the SPECTROPORT portable metal analyzer. https://www.spectro.com/lab SPECTRO’s unparalleled record of technological innovation ensures that users always get the best results in the business with every instrument. SUPERIOR SERVICE AND SUPPORT For metal producers, productivity depends on continued availability of analysis. The AMECARE Performance Services program maximizes uptime for SPECTROLAB, SPECTROMAXx and other SPECTRO Analytical products. The program is staffed by more than 200 experienced service engineers in 50 countries. They provide high-value, customized services designed to ensure optimum performance plus the longest possible equipment life. Ask about AMECARE proactive performance maintenance, performance upgrades, applications solutions, consultation, targeted training, and ongoing support. www.spectro.com www GERMANY U.S.A. CHINA SPECTRO Analytical Instruments GmbH SPECTRO Analytical Instruments Inc. AMETEK Commercial Boschstrasse 10, D-47533 Kleve 91 McKee Drive Enterprise (Shanghai) CO., LTD. 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