Testing metals is essential for many reasons. Not only are they important for production processes, but they are also necessary for critical applications, such as aerospace and aviation, weight lifting machines, electrical wires, and domestic products. In addition, because of their specific properties, it is imperative to test them before production, ensuring they are durable enough to withstand the demanding working conditions. This article will discuss some main reasons why metals must be tested.

Tests To Identify Metals

Testing the composition of metals involves the use of various methods, which are either destructive or non-destructive. For example, some methods are used to determine the properties of newly forged metal alloys, while others can be used to identify pure metals. Testing metals has become simple and fast with new technologies, such as chemical-property databases.

Surface appearance: When analyzing the surface of a metal, one can quickly identify what type it is based on its color and texture. Taking a sample of metal and observing the appearance with physical testing Farmington Hills, MI, will help narrow the options to the right kind of metal. Freshly fractured or filed surfaces can also provide additional clues. Lastly, metal identification tests can help in reverse engineering.

Costs

Comprehensive heavy metal testing can be costly, but you can save much money by ordering tests online. This type of testing can range from $119 to $724, depending on the facility and lab. Moreover, you can order the tests online and complete them at the laboratory during business hours. The results are usually available within two or three business days.

Heavy metal soil testing effectively determines if the soil you’re working with contains heavy metals. These elements can cause various health problems, ranging from reproductive complications to developmental problems in children. In addition to these metals, you may also come into contact with other materials that are dangerous to humans. Mercury and lead are two of the most common and can be found in soil. Other elements in soil include zinc, copper, and arsenic. They are commonly found in old orchards, and they are also present in vehicle exhaust.

Accuracy

When it comes to metal-based projects, accuracy is critical. A wrong choice of metal in a load-bearing structure could be disastrous. There are seven common metal testing methods. Depending on the application, each can determine alloy composition. Another test looks at the surface appearance of a metal. This is a non-destructive method that is accurate for one to 20,000 pieces. Here are some examples of the different types of metal testing:

In-lab tests are more accurate than at-home tests. The most expensive test, measuring fourteen elements, costs $229, but it’s worth it if you can’t get a urine sample. The accuracy of these tests depends on how much of each heavy metal you’ve been exposed to, the type of sample you’ve given, and the length of time since exposure. The cost of these tests is significantly higher than at-home tests, so you should consider their value before choosing a test.