ASTM E1086 Testing

Chemical Analysis Material Characterization Problem Solving
Dassault Aviation
Dassault Aviation Approval
Safran
Safran Approval
5200 m² laboratory
5200 m² laboratory + 99% of services are provided in-house
CIR
CIR Research tax credit

Do you need to perform stainless steel analysis according to ASTM E1086 ?

Securing metallic materials for the ASD sector with ASTM E1086

In the Aerospace, Space, and Defense (ASD) sectors, the conformity of corrosion-resistant alloys is a safety imperative. Even the slightest variation in Chromium, Nickel, or Molybdenum content can alter the mechanical performance and environmental resistance of your essential parts.

ASTM E1086 is the specific standard for the analysis of Austenitic Stainless Steels by Spark Optical Emission Spectrometry (Spark-OES). It allows for high-fidelity validation of your steel grades (Types 304, 316, 321, etc.) to guarantee their integrity.

At FILAB, we support manufacturers in the ASD supply chain with the characterization and control of their materials according to ASTM E1086. Our goal is clear: to ensure the reliability of your technical and industrial decisions.

ASTM E1086: A key challenge for stainless steels

Stainless steel analysis by spark-OES according to ASTM E1086

The ASTM E1086 standard defines a standardized test method for the quantitative chemical analysis of austenitic stainless steels using the spark technique. It covers the determination of major elements and residual impurities essential to the stability of the austenitic structure.

It is specifically used to:

  • Precisely measure Chromium and Nickel contents, which guarantee oxidation resistance.
  • Verify compliance of steel grades against international standards.
  • Control purity and the absence of undesirable elements that could embrittle the alloy.

In the Aerospace and Defense industries, adhering to the thresholds fixed by ASTM E1086 has a direct impact on:

  • Resistance to intergranular and pitting corrosion.
  • Mechanical behavior in aggressive media or at extreme temperatures.
  • Long-term reliability of strategic components such as fasteners, tubing, or structural elements.

ASTM E1086 is therefore essential for material qualification, quality control, supplier validation, or failure analysis following a non-conformity.

FILAB, a laboratory tailored to Aerospace & Defense requirements

An analytical park dedicated to ASTM E1086 testing

Analyzing stainless steels according to ASTM E1086 requires instrumentation capable of distinguishing fine compositional variations. To meet these demands, FILAB provides its clients with high-performance equipment :

Spark-OES

optimized for Iron/Chromium/Nickel bases

C/S Elemental Analyzers

Dedicated material expertise services

At FILAB, ASTM E1086 analysis is part of a comprehensive material characterization approach. We do not just produce results: we help you understand their impact on your materials, your processes, and your in-service performance. Our teams work on : 

Austenitic stainless steels (200 and 300 series)

Materials subjected to severe corrosive environments

Samples from casting, rolling, or machining

Why Choose FILAB ?

  • 45 years of recognized expertise in analysis and materials science
  • Dual competence: Chemistry / Materials
  • Specializing in metallic alloys and critical applications
  • Customer qualification : Safran, Dassault Aviation, and Framatome
  • ISO 17025 Accreditation regarding metallic alloys
Discover our metallurgical expertise

Analysis of Iron, Aluminium, Molybdenum, Copper, Tin, Chromium, Titanium, Lead, Nickel, Zinc

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FAQ

What materials does ASTM E1086 cover ?

It is specifically designed for austenitic stainless steels (such as 304/304L, 316/316L). It applies to solid samples with a surface suitable for sparking.

What elements are measured using ASTM E1086 ?

This standard allows for the simultaneous quantification of Chromium, Nickel, Molybdenum, Manganese, Silicon, and Copper, as well as Carbon, Phosphorus, and Sulfur.

Which analytical technique is used ?

ASTM E1086 relies on Optical Emission Spectrometry (OES). An electrical discharge (spark) vaporizes a small amount of material, generating a light spectrum that identifies and quantifies each chemical element.

In what industrial contexts should ASTM E1086 analysis be performed ?
  • Validation of Material Certificates upon receipt.
  • Verification of carbon content for "L" grades (Low Carbon).
  • Identification of grades after machining or welding.
  • Failure analysis following unexpected corrosion on an in-service part.
How to get a quote ?

To request a quote, you can contact our team via our contact form, by phone, or by email.

Simply send us your requirements (type of material, desired analysis, applicable standards, turnaround time, number of samples, etc.). We will then send you a personalized technical and commercial proposal within 24 to 48 hours.

The filab advantages
A highly qualified team
A highly qualified team
Responsiveness in responding to and processing requests
Responsiveness in responding to and processing requests
A COFRAC ISO 17025 accredited laboratory
A COFRAC ISO 17025 accredited laboratory
(Staves available on www.cofrac.com - Accreditation number: 1-1793)
A complete analytical facility of 5,200m²
A complete analytical facility of 5,200m²
Tailor-made support
Tailor-made support
Video debriefing available with the expert
Video debriefing available with the expert
Anaïs DECAUX Customer Support Manager
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