Engineering basis

Portable XRF is fast for many alloying elements but cannot reliably measure carbon; optical emission spectroscopy can measure carbon and is used where separation of carbon-dependent grades matters.

Standards, grades or methods

PMI programs commonly target stainless, Cr-Mo, duplex, nickel alloys and critical pressure components, with extent defined by project or owner specification.

Typical applications

Refineries, petrochemical plants, power stations, pressure piping, shutdowns, alloy-steel maintenance and incoming inspection.

Critical checks

Define method, calibration/reference standards, test locations, acceptance ranges, marking after verification and treatment of nonconforming material.

Good engineering practice

Use the current governing code or specification and verify manufacturer data, material traceability and project-specific requirements. Where safety, pressure containment or structural integrity is involved, obtain approval from the responsible engineer before changing material, process or acceptance criteria.

Element Folio engineering reference. Requirements vary by standard, project and jurisdiction.