Quality Control of Low Alloy Steel Products

Importance of the Topic

Accurate identification of carbon and low-alloy steel compositions is critical for ensuring product performance, safety, and cost efficiency. Material mix-ups or the presence of undesired tramp elements can lead to part failures, liability issues, and expensive rework. Rapid and reliable elemental analysis underpins quality assurance and helps maintain supply chain integrity in metal production, fabrication, and specialized industrial applications.

Objectives and Study Overview

This work evaluates non-destructive handheld X-ray fluorescence (HHXRF) technology in comparison with traditional optical emission spectroscopy (OES) for low-alloy steel quality control. It demonstrates performance gains using Thermo Scientific Niton XL2 GOLDD and XL3t GOLDD+ analyzers. The study focuses on detection limits, accuracy, speed, and practical usability in field and shop-floor settings.

Methodology and Instrumentation Used

Two established OES modes—arc (3–5 s analyses, limited light-element detection) and argon-shielded spark (broader elemental coverage but larger burn marks)—are described for context. The core evaluation employs handheld XRF analyzers: Niton XL2 GOLDD and XL3t GOLDD+. Samples underwent light surface preparation before measurement. Each certified reference material (CRM) was analyzed for 25 s (10 s on a main filter, 15 s on a light filter) with triplicate measurements.

Main Results and Discussion

Correlation curves for nickel, chromium, and molybdenum yielded coefficients of determination (R²) approaching unity, demonstrating excellent agreement with certified values. Improved limits of detection (<0.10 % w/w) allow reliable quantification of key alloying elements by handheld XRF. Measurement times are under a minute with no damage to the part surface. Compared to OES, HHXRF requires less sample prep and avoids burn marks, enhancing throughput and preserving component integrity.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Instant, non-destructive alloy verification in seconds
• Minimal operator training and simple interface
• Detection of light elements (P, S) using GOLDD technology
• Accurate analysis on small-diameter parts and complex geometries
• Automated reporting and certificate generation for QA/QC records

Future Trends and Applications

Advances in detector materials and signal processing will further lower detection limits and extend elemental coverage. Integration with digital quality management systems and predictive analytics can streamline data workflows. Expanding HHXRF to additional alloy systems and remote or automated inspection will broaden adoption in manufacturing, recycling, and field service applications.

Conclusion

Handheld XRF instruments equipped with GOLDD technology offer a compelling alternative to conventional OES for low-alloy steel quality control. They deliver rapid, accurate, and non-destructive analysis with minimal surface impact and simplified operation. This capability strengthens QA/QC programs and supports safer, more efficient metal production and fabrication processes.