Proficiency Testing Programs / Metals Testing /

Chemical Analysis of Aluminum

Fee: Two Quarters - $626



ABOUT THE PROGRAM

This Proficiency Test Program includes the quantitative analysis of two different 300 and 6000 series aluminum alloys, in the Spring (May) and fall (November) respectively.


WHY SHOULD YOUR LABORATORY PARTICIPATE

These programs are designed to provide participating laboratories with a statistical quality assurance tool enabling them to assess their performance in how they conduct a given test or series of tests by comparing their data against the data of other participating laboratories.


You receive test results available only to participating laboratories that will help you:


  • Monitor strengths and weaknesses of your laboratory's performance
  • Periodically compare your test results and calculated statistical parameters with other laboratories
  • Compare test data for a given quality parameter against laboratories using different ASTM test methods

PROGRAM SCHEDULE & FEE INFORMATION

This program is conducted twice yearly with testing in May and November.


TEST SCOPE

E34-94(2002), Standard Test Methods for Chemical Analysis of Aluminum and Aluminum-Base Alloy


E607-2002, Standard Test Method for Optical Emission Spectrometric Analysis of Aluminum and Aluminum Alloys by the Point-to-Plane Technique, Nitrogen Atmosphere


E1251-04, Standard Test Method for Optical Emission Spectrometric Analysis of Aluminum and Aluminum Alloys by the Argon Atmosphere, Point-to-Plane Unipolar Self-Initiating Capacitor Discharge


BASIC ELEMENTS USED

Basic elements to be determined by participants include silicon, iron, copper, manganese, chromium, nickel, zinc, vanadium, lead, magnesium, titanium, and tin. Additional elements will be included in the program from time to time.



TEST SAMPLES

Test samples for the 2009 program will be provided by Analytical Reference Materials International. The samples provided are homogeneity tested in accordance with E 826, Practice for Testing Homogeneity of Materials for the Development of Reference Materials. As a program participant you will receive test samples for each testing period, electronic submittal forms to record test data, and instructions for conducting the tests.



ABOUT THE COMPLETED TEST DATA

Each laboratory electronically returns their completed test data to ASTM for use in generating statistical summary reports. Participants are permitted to use other methods in the analysis of the test sample, but all methods utilized must be documented on the data report form. Labs unable to follow a specific ASTM method to the ultimate detail due to specific equipment features and workload requirements are required to identify those areas where deviation occur.


STATISTICAL ANALYSIS OF DATA

Electronic summary reports are generated for ASTM with the statistical consultation of John Norris, NIST Emeritus. The summary reports, provided to participants only, contain: Each participating laboratory's test results (coded for confidentiality); Statistical analysis of test data; Charts plotting test results versus laboratory code; and Other pertinent information.



ABOUT ASTM INTERNATIONAL COMMITTEE E01

Committee E01 on Analytical Chemistry of Metals, Ores, and Related Materials, consisting of over 190 members and developer of over 140 standards, provides the technical direction for the program.


PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS

Participation is on an annual fee basis and open to all laboratories. Registration fees must be paid in advance to participate in the program. Testing must be performed within the participants' laboratory facilities using the specified ASTM methods