Positive Material Identification

Introduction

PMI (Positive Material Identification) testing is the analysis of materials to determine the chemical composition of a metal or alloy at particular (usually multiple) steps of alloy manufacturing or in–process alloy installation. Knowing the exact composition and grade of an alloy enables suppliers, plant workers, and other responsible parties in the chain of custody of components to match alloy specifications that are chosen for their specific properties such as heat resistance, corrosion resistance, durability, etc. Having the right alloy in the right place is essential in places like petroleum refineries and chemical plants, because the right alloy with the right properties is often all that stands between a safe, efficient operation and lost time and revenue.

Application

PMI (Positive Material Identification) is a fast–nondestructive testing technique that measures alloy composition to confirm alloy grades. PMI provides rapid and definitive material confirmation when producing components, receiving alloy materials, or when installing pipes, valves, reaction vessels, or welding, bolting, and gasket joining materials. Some of the below application for PMI utilizes by Pretect.

• Positive Material Identification for Alloys
• PMI for Scrap Metal
• Alloy Grade Verification for Metal Fabricators
• PMI for Particular Metal Alloy Groups:
• Steel
• Stainless Steel
• Carbon and Low–Alloy Steel
• Aluminum Alloys
• Titanium Alloys
• Nickel, Cobalt, High Temperature Alloys
• Weld Verification
• Component Composition Verification
• PMI for High Reliability (“Hi–Rel”) and Exempt Alloys
• PMI for Petrochemical Refinery Piping and Components
• PMI for In–Service Components
• PMI for Solder and Solder Joints

Benefits

• Easy material grade identification
• Can apply on both raw and semi–finish materials
• Spark Testing is cost–effective
• Easy to execute and fast