How XRF Supports Positive Material Identification
PMI is used to confirm that the correct alloy has been supplied or installed. Handheld XRF is commonly used because it can test metal components directly in the field without cutting, sampling, or damaging the part.
The analyser identifies key alloying elements such as chromium, nickel, molybdenum, copper, manganese, titanium, and others. These results can then be compared with grade limits for stainless steels, nickel alloys, copper alloys, low-alloy steels, and other engineering materials.
XRF is well suited to many PMI tasks, but it has limitations. It does not directly measure carbon, so it may not distinguish some carbon-dependent steel grades. Surface coatings, corrosion, paint, or contamination should also be removed where they may affect the reading.
Considering XRF for PMI Programs
For more detail on the measurement method, review PAS’s overview of X-Ray Fluorescence technology. To compare suitable instruments, explore PAS’s handheld XRF analysers through Portable Analytical Solutions, or contact our team to discuss PMI workflows, alloy types, and verification requirements.