Chemical Analysis of High-Speed Steel by Sample Taking Method
High-speed steel (HSS) is a type of tool steel that is used in the production of cutting tools due to its ability to withstand intense high speed use. It is resistant to wear and further strengthens when heated. Its chemical composition plays a critical role in its characteristics and thus its performance. Therefore, to ensure the desired performance, a proper chemical analysis of HSS is essential.
The most commonly used method for chemical analysis of HSS is sample taking. This involves taking a sample of the material and submitting it to a laboratory for analysis. The sample is typically taken from the top or bottom layers of the material and should be free from surface contamination as this can influence the results. Properly collected samples are then dried and homogenized prior to assay.
The laboratory assays the sample using various methods including optical emission spectroscopy (OES), X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF), inductively coupled plasma (ICP) spectroscopy, and gravimetric analysis. OES enables the most accurate measurement of the chemical elements that make up the material, and is thus suitable for complex alloys. XRF is preferred for alloys containing metals that generate characteristic X-ray lines during the analysis. Gravimetric analysis determines the exact amount of a given element in the material, while ICP is recommended for identifying minute traces of elements present.
Once the analysis is complete, the results are compared with the substrate supplier’s certified analysis data to ensure accuracy and adherence to specification.
Sample taking is a relatively simple and cost-effective method of determining the composition of HSS, and provides an accurate and reliable assessment of the material. Moreover, due to its non-destructive nature, the same sample can be aspirated multiple times with no adverse effects. However, it may be labor intensive and time consuming due to the need for sample preparation and the variation of results between different laboratories.
In conclusion, sample taking is the most commonly used method for chemical analysis of HSS. When conducted properly, it provides an accurate and reliable assessment of the material and its likely performance. Nevertheless, it is essential to ensure that all the necessary steps are taken to maximize the accuracy of the analysis and that it is carried out by a reputable laboratory.
