Overview
EN 27627-5:1993 (identical to ISO 7627-5:1983) defines a standardized procedure for the chemical analysis of hardmetals by flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS). It covers the determination of cobalt, iron, manganese, molybdenum, nickel, titanium and vanadium in hardmetal samples when each element is present in the range 0.5 to 2 % (m/m). General requirements on scope, principle, interferences, apparatus, sampling and test reporting are given in ISO 7627-1.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Scope and limitation: Method is intended for element contents from 0.5 to 2 % (m/m). FAAS at high concentrations can show greater scatter than some alternative methods.
- Sample preparation:
- Typical test portion: approximately 1 g, weighed to 0.001 g.
- Dissolution: controlled addition of hydrofluoric acid (HF) and nitric acid (HNO3), heating until dissolved; addition of cesium chloride and ammonium fluoride to stabilize matrix.
- Final volumetric dilution to 100 ml (with option to perform a 1:10 further dilution for more sensitive instruments).
- Calibration and measurement:
- Prepare at least six calibration solutions with matrix matching the sample as closely as possible.
- Use blank solutions and single-element hollow-cathode lamps; narrow spectral bandpass is mandatory.
- Aspirate blanks, calibrants and test solutions sequentially; make at least two measurements per solution.
- Quality control and results:
- Perform three independent determinations; deviations between them shall not exceed 0.1 times the element content (absolute).
- Report the arithmetic mean of acceptable determinations and round according to the standard’s table.
- Safety note: Use extreme caution with HF and strong acids; follow manufacturer guidance for flame ignition/extinguishing.
Applications and users
This standard is primarily aimed at:
- Quality control and analytical laboratories in powder metallurgy and hardmetal (tungsten carbide/cobalt) manufacturing.
- Materials engineers and metallurgists monitoring binder and impurity levels.
- Third‑party testing labs performing standardized compositional certification.
- R&D groups comparing FAAS results with other methods (e.g., gravimetric or alternative spectrometric techniques).
Use cases include routine composition checks, incoming material inspection, process control and conformity testing where quantification of binder and alloying elements at the 0.5–2 % level is required.
Related standards
Keywords: EN 27627-5:1993, ISO 7627-5:1983, hardmetals, flame atomic absorption spectrometry, FAAS, cobalt analysis, iron, manganese, molybdenum, nickel, titanium, vanadium, chemical analysis, powder metallurgy.
