The chemical composition of stainless steels must be determined accurately in order to ensure the desired metallurgical properties. This procedure is suitable for manufacturing control and inspection testing.
1.1 This test method provides for the optical emission vacuum spectrometric analysis of stainless steel in solid form by the point-to-plane excitation technique for the following elements in the concentration ranges shown:
| Element | Concentration Range, % |
| Chromium | 17.0 to 23.0 |
| Nickel | 7.5 to 13.0 |
| Molybdenum | 0.01 to 3.0 |
| Manganese | 0.01 to 2.0 |
| Silicon | 0.01 to 0.90 |
| Copper | 0.01 to 0.30 |
| Carbon | 0.005 to 0.25 |
| Phosphorus | 0.003 to 0.15 |
| Sulfur | 0.003 to 0.065 |
1.2 This test method is designed for the routine analysis of chill-cast disks or inspection testing of stainless steel samples that have a flat surface of at least 13 mm (0.5 in.) in diameter. The samples must be sufficiently massive to prevent overheating during the discharge and of a similar metallurgical condition and composition as the reference materials.
1.3 Analytical curves are plotted using the concentration ratio method as shown in Practice E158. One or more of the reference materials must closely approximate the composition of the specimen. The technique of analyzing reference materials along with unknowns and performing the indicated mathematical corrections may also be used to correct for interference effects and to compensate for errors resulting from instrument drift. A variety of such systems are commonly used. Any of these that will achieve analytical accuracy equivalent to that reported for this test method are acceptable.
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 and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
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