Chemical analysis is required to ascertain the chemical composition of steel and is done with an Optical Emission Spectrometry at Henderson Manufacturing Company. Optical Emission Spectrometry (OES) using arc and spark excitation is the preferred method to determine the chemical composition of metallic samples. Due to its rapid analysis time and inherent accuracy, Arc/Spark OES systems are most effective in controlling the processing of alloys.

To perform a chemical analysis, a sample is drawn from the furnace and sent to the Metallurgical Lab. Once the metallurgical properties of the sample are determined by OES, a ‘recipe’ can be formulated to bring the metal in furnace to a required chemical specification. At least two more times, during the melting and pouring process, samples are analyzed to verify the metals chemical composition.

The final test is done as the heat is being poured and the basis of certification when requested by the customer.