---
type: "WebPage"
title: "Metallurgical analysis"
description: "Your need: identify the composition and properties of a metallic material with complete and reliable metallurgical analysis Metal families supported by FILAB At FILAB laboratory, our metallurgical expertise covers many metal families, from the most common to specific alloys. Our..."
resource: "https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/metallurgical-analysis-laboratory/"
tags: ["EN", "pll_63cf9d4146c1e", "Arnaud JOUDRAIN Meta"]
timestamp: "2026-07-24T09:52:10Z"
published: "2021-08-27T14:26:39Z"
language: "en"
author: "bwa"
---

# Metallurgical analysis

## Your need: identify the composition and properties of a metallic material with complete and reliable metallurgical analysis

### Metal families supported by FILAB

At FILAB laboratory, our [metallurgical expertise](https://filab.fr/en/sectors-of-activity/laboratory-metallurgy-steelmaking-analysis.md) covers many metal families, from the most common to specific alloys. Our laboratory is equipped to analyze metals, both ferrous and non-ferrous, [precious metals](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/metallurgical-analysis-laboratory/laboratory-analysis-precious-metals.md) and [metal alloys](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/metallurgical-analysis-laboratory/metallic-alloy-analysis-laboratory.md), meeting the diverse needs of our clients across different industrial sectors.

Indeed, FILAB laboratory puts its experience and specialized skills at your disposal for the following metallurgical analysis services on all types of metallic matrices and materials :

[Iron](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/metallurgical-analysis-laboratory/iron-alloys-analysis-at-filab-laboratory.md) : [steel](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/metallurgical-analysis-laboratory/laboratory-of-analysis-and-expertise-of-steels.md), [316L steel](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/metallurgical-analysis-laboratory/laboratory-analysis-steel.md), [stainless steel](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/metallurgical-analysis-laboratory/laboratory-analysis-of-your-stainless-steels-according-to-nf-en-10088-standards.md), cast iron..

[Aluminum](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/metallurgical-analysis-laboratory/laboratory-analysis-aluminum-alloys.md): 1000, 2000 to 8000 series, [Aluminum-Lithium Alloy (Al-Li)](https://filab.fr/en/services/laboratory-analysis-of-aluminum-lithium-al-li-alloys.md)

[Molybdenum](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/metallurgical-analysis-laboratory/molybdenum-laboratory-analysis.md)

[Copper](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/metallurgical-analysis-laboratory/laboratory-analysis-copper-alloys.md): brass, [bronze](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/metallurgical-analysis-laboratory/laboratory-analysis-of-bronze.md)

[Tin :](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/metallurgical-analysis-laboratory/laboratory-analysis-tin-alloy-sn.md) SAC 305, SAC 0807, Sn63Pb37

[Chromium](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/metallurgical-analysis-laboratory/laboratory-analysis-chromium.md)

[Titanium](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/metallurgical-analysis-laboratory/laboratory-analysis-titanium-alloys.md) : TA6V, T40

[Lead](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/metallurgical-analysis-laboratory/laboratory-analysis-lead.md)

[Cobalt](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/metallurgical-analysis-laboratory/laboratory-analysis-cobalt-alloys.md) : Cobalt Stellite Grade 6, Cobalt Stellite Grade 21

[Nickel](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/metallurgical-analysis-laboratory/laboratory-analysis-nickel-alloys.md) : Nitinol, [Inconel 718, Inconel 625](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/metallurgical-analysis-laboratory/laboratory-analysis-inconel-metals.md), [Rene 77](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/metallurgical-analysis-laboratory/laboratory-analysis-of-rene-77.md), Hastelloy X

[Zinc](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/metallurgical-analysis-laboratory/laboratory-analysis-zinc-alloys.md)

[Heavy metals](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/laboratory-analysis-heavy-metal.md)

   ![analyses métallurgiques](https://filab.fr/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/metallurgiques-1.jpg)
## Metallurgical analysis: a specialty of the FILAB laboratory

FILAB laboratory has established itself as a benchmark in the field of metallurgical analysis thanks to recognized technical expertise and an instrument fleet dedicated to **[metal and alloy characterization](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/metallurgical-analysis-laboratory/laboratory-analysis-metals.md)**.

### FILAB supports you in metallurgical expertise and the characterization of your metals

Thanks to our cutting-edge technology and our team of qualified experts, we offer tailored services to optimize the performance and quality of your metals. Discover how we can help you meet your industrial challenges:

## Chemical composition of metals

[Chemical composition analysis of metal alloys](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/metallurgical-analysis-laboratory/metallic-alloy-analysis-laboratory.md)

Analysis and determination of [carbon](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/metallurgical-analysis-laboratory/laboratory-determine-carbon.md), [hydrogen](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/metallurgical-analysis-laboratory/laboratory-analysis-hydrogen.md), [nitrogen](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/metallurgical-analysis-laboratory/determination-nitrogen-content.md) and [oxygen](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/metallurgical-analysis-laboratory/laboratory-oxygen-determination.md) in metal alloys

[Analysis of metal oxides](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/metallurgical-analysis-laboratory/laboratory-analysis-metal-oxides.md)

[Steel slag analysis](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/metallurgical-analysis-laboratory/steel-slag-analysis.md)

[Analysis of single-crystal superalloys](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/metallurgical-analysis-laboratory/analysis-and-testing-of-single-crystal-superalloys-cmsx-4-rene-n5-ni-co-base.md) (nickel- or cobalt-based) - CMSX-4, René N5, Ni/Co-based

[Elemental analysis in the laboratory](https://filab.fr/nos-prestations/analyse/analysis-chimiques/laboratoire-analysis-elementaires/)

[Physicochemical characterization of metal powders](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/laboratory-analysis-powder-characterization/metallic-powders-characterization-services-at-filab-laboratory.md)

[Ferroalloy analysis](https://filab.fr/nos-prestations/analyse/laboratoire-analysis-metallurgiques/analysis-ferroalliages/)

[Analysis and expertise in amorphous alloys](https://filab.fr/en/services/laboratory-analysis-of-amorphous-alloys.md)

## Failure analysis

[Troubleshooting on defective parts](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/rd/finding-solutions-problems.md)

[Metallographic analysis of alloys](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/metallurgical-analysis-laboratory/examination-metallographic-section-laboratory.md)

[Metallurgical analysis in accordance with current standards](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/metallurgical-analysis-laboratory/metallurgical-analysis-what-are-the-regulations-and-standards-in-force.md)

[Metallurgical failure analysis](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/metallurgical-analysis-laboratory/metal-failure-analysis.md)

[Analysis of contamination on metal parts](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-expertise-services/laboratory-analysis-deposit-contamination/laboratory-for-the-analysis-of-pollution-on-metal-parts.md)

[Electrochemical testing](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-expertise-services/electrochemical-characterization.md)

### FILAB standards in metallurgy:

 ![](https://filab.fr/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Design-sans-titre.png)
 

Some **analysis are carried out under [COFRAC ISO 17025 accreditation](https://filab.fr/en/about-us/accreditations-en.md)**, ensuring technical expertise and control of analytical processes.

The laboratory also operates in line with demanding standards such as [Safran procedures](https://filab.fr/en/about-us/accreditations-en/laboratory-safran-approved.md) **PR 6000 and PR 7210**, as well as within the scope of specific approvals issued by our clients.

## our services

Grain size measurement according to [ASTM E112](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/metallurgical-analysis-laboratory/astm-e112.md) and [NF EN ISO 643](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/laboratory-analysis-powder-characterization/determination-grain-size-according-to-nf-en-iso-643-on-steels.md)

Carbide distribution according to ISO 5949, SEP 1520, A892-09

Baumann test according to NF A05-151

Coating thickness measurement according to NF EN 10244-2

[Analysis of stainless steels according to ISO 5631-1](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/metallurgical-analysis-laboratory/stainless-steel-analysis-iso-3651-1.md)

Inclusion rating according to NF A04-106, ISO 4967, ASTM E45-18a

Intergranular corrosion test according to [NF EN ISO 3651-2](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/metallurgical-analysis-laboratory/metallurgical-analysis-what-are-the-regulations-and-standards-in-force.md) and ISO 11846

Decarburization depth according to EN ISO 3887

[Analysis of surgical implants according to ISO 5832](https://filab.fr/en/sectors-of-activity/laboratory-analysis-medical-devices/analysis-of-surgical-implants-according-to-iso-5832.md)

## An analytical platform dedicated to metallurgical expertise and analysis

 [### ICP-AES/ICP-MS](https://filab.fr/en/our-technical-resources/laboratory-analysis-icp-icp-ms-icp-aes.md) [### C, H, O, N, S elemental analysis](https://filab.fr/en/our-technical-resources/chons-laboratory-analysis.md) [### SEO](https://filab.fr/en/our-technical-resources/laboratory-analysis-oes-alloys.md) [### SEM-EDX](https://filab.fr/en/our-technical-resources/laboratory-analysis-sem-scanning-electron-microscopy.md)
### Our accreditations

 ![](https://filab.fr/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/ESSAI-Logo-COFRAC.jpg)
The FILAB laboratory is accredited by COFRAC (French Accreditation Committee) – Laboratories section – in its Chemistry, Metallurgy, Organic Chemistry, Chemical Expertise, Materials Expertise and Environment departments for the following areas:

✔️ Physicochemical analysis of metallic materials
✔️ Physicochemical analysis of cosmetic products and pharmaceutical products
✔️ Physicochemical analysis of medical devices, medical equipment, and chemical and biological products

Scope available No. 1-1793

This [Nadcap accreditation](https://filab.fr/accreditations/analysis-accreditation-nadcap/) covers in particular:
✔️ Chemical analysis (ICP-OES) of critical metallic alloys
(Al, Fe, Ni, Ti)
✔️ Metallography

An international recognition that confirms our commitment to quality and reliability for the most demanding applications, especially in aerospace..

 ![](https://filab.fr/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/PNG-bleu-e1775737225243-1024x446.png) [Discover our accreditations](https://filab.fr/en/about-us/accreditations-en.md)  Discover our case study
## Industrial marking on metal parts: cleaning process

 [Learn more](https://filab.fr/en/blog/2025/12/industrial-marking-on-metal-parts-cleaning-process-study-case-study.md)   Discover our case study
## Determining the cause of fracture in a steel piston

 [Learn more](https://filab.fr/en/blog/2025/12/how-did-filab-help-one-of-its-clients-determine-the-cause-of-steel-piston-failure-at-the-rod-case-study.md)   Discover our case study
## Fracture surface analysis of a metal anchor

 [Learn more](http://Etude%20de%20faci%C3%A8s%20de%20rupture%20d%E2%80%99ancrage%20m%C3%A9tallique)
## Industries and materials covered by metallurgical expertise

Our **metallurgical expertise laboratory** works with many industrial sectors, directly linked to the **metallic materials**analyzed:

Aerospace and defense: aluminum alloys, titanium, nickel-based superalloys for critical parts.

Automotive and transport: alloy steels, cast irons, aluminum and magnesium alloys for mechanical and structural components.

Energy and nuclear: stainless steels and alloys resistant to corrosion and high temperatures.

Manufacturing industry and R&D: carbon and alloy steels, copper alloys, development and validation of new grades.

## FAQ

 When should you call on a metallurgical expertise laboratory?
It is recommended to call on a **metallurgical expertise laboratory** in the event of breakage, cracking, corrosion, or abnormal wear of a metal part. Expertise is also relevant to verify alloy compliance, validate a material grade, secure a supplier change, or support product development. It provides objective technical evidence to guide industrial decisions or handle a dispute.

 How can metallurgical analysis explain premature failure of a steel part?
When a metal part cracks or breaks earlier than expected, metallurgical analysis makes it possible to identify the cause of the failure. Through the study of the microstructure, inclusions, heat treatments, or surface treatments, the laboratory can determine whether the failure is linked to a manufacturing defect, an incorrect alloy grade, or a mechanical fatigue phenomenon.

 Why use metallurgical analysis in the event of corrosion on industrial structures?
In chemical, marine, or industrial environments, corrosion can quickly weaken equipment. Metallurgical analysis helps characterize the affected areas, verify the metal’s chemical composition, and identify the possible presence of insufficient elements or treatments. This expertise makes it possible to adapt corrosion protection and prevent further damage.

 What is the importance of metallurgical analysis for metal powders used in additive manufacturing?
Aerospace, medical, and automotive industries are increasingly using metal additive manufacturing. Metallurgical analysis makes it possible to control particle size distribution, oxygen content, residual moisture, and powder purity. These data are essential to ensure the quality of 3D-printed parts and avoid internal porosity or cracks.

 What is the importance of metallurgical analysis for metal powders used in additive manufacturing?
Aerospace, medical, and automotive industries are increasingly using metal additive manufacturing. Metallurgical analysis makes it possible to control particle size distribution, oxygen content, residual moisture, and powder purity. These data are essential to ensure the quality of 3D-printed parts and avoid internal porosity or cracks.

 How does metallurgical analysis help optimize heat treatment or surface treatment?
Annealing, quenching, or surface treatment must be perfectly controlled to give the metal the expected properties. Through microscopy and hardness testing, metallurgical analysis checks the depth of the treated layer, grain size, carbide distribution, or decarburization. This information makes it possible to adjust treatment parameters in order to improve mechanical performance and durability.

 In which industrial cases is metallurgical analysis essential for safety?
In sectors such as aerospace, energy, nuclear, or medical, material failure can have major consequences. Metallurgical analysis is used to ensure regulatory compliance, verify alloy compatibility with critical environments, and certify the quality of production batches.

 How does metallurgical analysis make it possible to compare two batches of different alloys?
When a supplier changes, manufacturers must ensure that the new batches meet the same specifications as the previous ones. Metallurgical analysis compares the chemical composition, inclusion cleanliness, microstructure, and mechanical properties of the two batches. This approach secures material validation and reduces the risk of non-compliance in production.

 What role does metallurgical analysis play in the certification of metal parts for export?
To meet international requirements, many markets require detailed inspection reports. Metallurgical analysis provides traceable, standardized data (ISO, ASTM, NF/EN) on the composition and structure of metals.