Spectrographic Material Identification (Spark OES)

Identifying material grades and determine precise chemical compositions, including elements that cannot be reliably measured using conventional XRF methods

Spectrographic Material Identification (Spark OES)

InCon provides advanced Spectrographic Material Identification services throughout the UK, delivering highly accurate elemental analysis for a wide range of metallic materials. Using state-of-the-art Optical Emission Spectroscopy (OES) technology, our experienced technicians can accurately identify material grades and determine precise chemical compositions, including elements that cannot be reliably measured using conventional XRF methods.

Our portable spectrographic equipment allows testing to be carried out both on-site and at our dedicated test facility, providing clients with fast, dependable results while minimising operational disruption.

As industries continue to place greater emphasis on quality assurance, safety and material traceability, accurate material verification has become increasingly important. InCon supports these requirements with a comprehensive spectrographic testing service, delivering instant analysis and fully computerised reports to provide complete confidence in material compliance and specification verification.

Our knowledgeable operators combine extensive industry experience with advanced analytical technology to ensure that every result is accurate, repeatable and representative of the material being tested.

Optical Emission Spectroscopy (OES)

Optical Emission Spectroscopy (OES), often referred to as Spark Spectrographic Analysis, is one of the most advanced methods available for Positive Material Identification and detailed chemical analysis of metallic materials.

The process works by creating an electrical spark on the surface of the material, exciting the atoms within the metal. As these atoms return to their normal energy state, they emit light at specific wavelengths unique to each element. By analysing this emitted light, the spectrometer accurately determines the material's chemical composition.

Unlike traditional XRF analysis, OES can accurately measure light elements such as:

  • Carbon (C)
  • Sulphur (S)
  • Phosphorus (P)
  • Boron (B)
  • Nitrogen (N)*
  • Silicon (Si)
  • Aluminium (Al)

*Capability dependent on material type and application.

This makes OES the preferred method when precise chemistry is required for material certification, specification verification or welding-related applications.

Advanced Capabilities

Spectrographic analysis offers significant advantages where detailed elemental composition is critical, including:

  • Accurate carbon analysis for carbon steels, low-alloy steels and stainless steels.
  • Grade differentiation between materials with similar alloy compositions.
  • Verification of materials against recognised standards and specifications.
  • Identification of unknown materials and mixed stock.
  • Weld metal and heat affected zone analysis.
  • Incoming material inspection and quality control.
  • Failure investigations and root cause analysis.
  • Verification of project-specific material requirements.
  • Complete quantitative chemical analysis rather than simple alloy identification.
  • Detection and measurement of trace and residual elements.

These capabilities make OES particularly valuable within the petrochemical, power generation, nuclear, aerospace, fabrication, manufacturing and oil & gas sectors, where material integrity and compliance are critical.

Why Choose InCon for Spectrographic Material Identification?

Choosing InCon means partnering with a trusted provider of advanced material verification services that combine technical expertise with industry-leading equipment.

Our portable OES technology enables highly accurate on-site chemical analysis, including the measurement of carbon and other light elements that conventional XRF equipment cannot reliably determine.

Operating nationwide across the UK, we provide rapid response, minimal operational disruption and immediate access to results through comprehensive digital reporting.

Whether supporting quality assurance programmes, material certification, fabrication projects, welding procedures or failure investigations, InCon delivers accurate, reliable and fully traceable spectrographic analysis services tailored to the needs of your business.