Metals, alloys and scrap recycling
Alloy grade identification (PMI) and scrap sorting in the field, plus analysis of the required elements in the laboratory.
Similar-looking material can have different compositions, which matters during incoming checks and scrap sorting. Handheld X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) analyzers support alloy grade identification (PMI) directly in the workshop or scrap yard.
Laboratory options include spark optical emission spectroscopy (OES) and carbon-sulfur (C/S) analysis. The method depends on the required elements and concentrations, material type and sample preparation.
Which analyzer for which task
- Handheld XRF — rapid identification of alloy, stainless and tool steels and Ni, Co, Ti, Cu, Zn and W alloys on a cleaned surface. The EXPLORER 5000 compares results with a grade library. Measurement time depends on the task and required precision.
- Handheld LIBS — alloy identification, including aluminium. Check the light-element coverage and detection capabilities of the specific model, for example the LIBS8000.
- Laboratory OES and C/S analyzer — checks of required elements and melt composition. The OES8000s covers Fe, Cu, Al, Ti, Pb, Mg and Co matrices; elemental coverage depends on the analytical program. The CS-188 is designed for carbon and sulfur determination.
Handheld XRF does not measure carbon, so it cannot verify a low-carbon “L” stainless grade through its carbon content. That requires a carbon determination, for example with suitably configured spark OES or a C/S analyzer.
Surface preparation and reliability
- XRF and LIBS analyse material near the surface. Paint, protective coatings, scale or grease can affect results. Assessing the substrate requires exposing representative, clean metal, with grinding if needed.
- Small parts, wire and turnings need stable positioning and enough material in the measuring field.
- Regular checks using certified reference materials of known composition help monitor result quality.
What to prepare for an enquiry
The materials and grades to distinguish, required elements (including light elements and carbon), where you will measure (scrap yard, shop floor or laboratory), measurements per day, sample forms and reporting requirements.
Recommended techniques and instruments
- XRF spectrometers — fast alloy identification and sorting, for example with the handheld EXPLORER 5000.
- LIBS and laser spectroscopy — the handheld LIBS8000 for light elements.
- Spark OES8000s and the carbon-sulfur analyzer CS-188 for laboratory composition control.
Frequently asked questions
Can handheld XRF tell 304 from 304L stainless steel?
It cannot verify 304L through its carbon content because it does not measure carbon. A grade name returned by the XRF library does not replace this test. Carbon determination is needed, for example with spark OES or a C/S analyzer.
XRF or LIBS for sorting aluminium?
Both methods can identify aluminium alloys. The choice depends on the grades to separate, the required sensitivity to alloying elements and whether a surface mark is acceptable. LIBS is worth considering for rapid sorting; confirm the specific instrument's capabilities on representative samples.
Does the analysis damage the material?
The XRF measurement itself is non-destructive, but surface preparation may require grinding. LIBS leaves a small laser-ablation mark, and spark OES leaves a burn mark. In C/S analysis, a separate sample is consumed during combustion.