Metal Identification Test Kit? 102 Most Correct Answers

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Mankind first learned to work with iron around 6,000 years ago, although it would not be until several thousand years later that the ultra-common element would be put to use in its most vital role: making steel. Steel is used in mechanical and electrical applications, heavy construction machinery, kitchen appliances and tools. With so much variety, it can be confusing to decide which type to use.

Steel is an alloy of iron, i. H. composed primarily of iron, it is combined with one or more alloying metals to create new materials with unique properties. There are four main classifications, but there are also several subgroups that serve different purposes. Its properties change depending on the elements with which iron is combined and the methods of heating and cooling the metal.

Below we explain the different types of steel and the purpose that each type serves. We hope this information can help you make a clear and confident decision as to which type to use.

What Are the Different Types of Steel?

Steel is classified according to its composition: iron is fused with carbon and any number of other elements to achieve a specific goal. The four main types are:

carbon steel

Stainless steel

Alloyed steel

tool steel

1. Carbon steel

All steel contains carbon, but carbon steel is unique in that it has conspicuously no other elements in its composition. Despite containing only 2% carbon by weight or less, carbon steel’s elemental nature makes it a strong, durable material that is ideal for a wide range of applications.

Carbon steel is sometimes confused with cast iron even though it must contain less than 2% carbon. Cast iron contains 2% to 3.5% carbon, giving it a rough texture and a more brittle character.

Although carbon steel is composed of alloyed metals, it does not have an alloy classification due to the absence of other alloying elements in its composition. This simplicity contributes to the popularity of carbon steel – it accounts for about 90% of all steel production.

types of carbon steel

Below the 2% carbon limit, carbon steel can be divided into three categories: low, medium and high carbon. Each type retains the inherent strength of carbon, but its useful purpose changes as the carbon content increases.

Low carbon: This is the most common and least expensive type. It is easy to form due to its high ductility – its innate ability to stretch under stress. Wire, bolts, and tubing use this type of steel.

Carbon: This is the most common and least expensive type. It is easily shaped due to its high ductility – its innate ability to stretch under stress. Wire, bolts, and tubing use this type of steel. Medium Carbon: A carbon content between 0.31% and 0.60% gives this grade higher strength and lower ductility than lower carbon grades. Medium carbons are found in gears and railroad tracks.

Carbon: A carbon content between 0.31% and 0.60% gives this grade higher strength and lower ductility than lower carbon grades. Medium carbons are found in gears and railroad tracks. High Carbon: The hardest grade contains more than 0.61% carbon and is commonly used to make brick nails and sharp cutting tools like trenchers. They contain no more than 2% carbon.

Carbon steel’s relative adaptability and low cost make it an ideal choice for a variety of construction projects, both large and small scale.

2. Stainless steel

This type is well known for its role in the manufacture of medical devices and equipment, but its uses extend far beyond the gas range in your kitchen. Chrome is the alloy that characterizes stainless steel and gives the material its unmistakable shine.

However, chromium is more than a purely cosmetic addition: the element is resistant to oxidation and increases the longevity of the metal by protecting it from rust. Stainless steel typically has a chromium content in excess of 10.5% and sometimes contains up to 30% in certain applications.

Higher chromium content directly leads to higher gloss when polished and has greater corrosion resistance. Stainless steel differs from chrome when chrome is electroplated onto another metal to create a tough, polished coating. The luster in high chrome stainless steel applications is less specular due to the addition of other elements.

types of stainless steel

Kitchen, medical and automotive applications are common, but stainless steel is highly valued for other applications as well. It is divided into four subcategories, each serving a different purpose.

Martensitic Alloys: Toughness is a hallmark of martensitic alloys, but they are prone to corrosion. They are formed by a rapid cooling process that makes them ideal for heat treatment and are found in medical instruments, cutlery and forceps.

Alloys: Toughness is a hallmark of martensitic alloys, but they are prone to corrosion. They are formed by a rapid cooling process that makes them ideal for heat treatment and are found in medical instruments, cutlery and forceps. Ferritic Alloys: These are lower cost steels with small amounts of carbon and nickel. Automotive applications are common end uses for ferritic alloys due to their chromium-induced strength and luster.

Alloys: These are less expensive steels with small amounts of carbon and nickel. Automotive applications are common end uses for ferritic alloys due to their chromium-induced strength and luster. Austenitic Alloys: Austenitic alloys have higher chromium and nickel contents, which improves their corrosion resistance and causes them to become non-magnetic. They are present and popular in commercial kitchen appliances because they are durable and easy to clean.

Alloys: Austenitic alloys have higher chromium and nickel contents, which improves their corrosion resistance and causes them to become non-magnetic. They are present and popular in commercial kitchen appliances because they are durable and easy to clean. Duplex Alloys: A combination of austenitic and ferritic alloys results in a duplex alloy that inherits the properties of both while doubling the strength. They are also ductile and corrosion resistant due to their relatively high chromium content.

Stainless steel variants are valued for use in the construction industry for their corrosion resistance and strength. They are well suited for a variety of construction applications as well as storage functions for hazardous construction materials.

3. Alloy steel

The alloy type is iron fused with one of several other elements, each contributing their own unique properties to the final product. It is true that all steels are alloys, but carbon and chromium are specific alloys whose names are attributed to the type of metal they form.

Alloy steel as a group includes a variety of alloys with equally different properties. Shipping containers use a complex alloy that combines multiple elements to create a durable and long-lasting product. Silicon is not often thought of as a component of steel, but its magnetic properties make it a perfect component of most large machines. Versatile, aluminum is used in revolutionary building materials that are both lightweight and extremely durable.

Some of the elements that combine with iron and carbon to form alloys are also found in tool steels – cobalt, tungsten and molybdenum, for example, are ultra-hard metals coveted for their impact strength and cutting ability.

Types of alloy steel

The diverse potential of alloyed steel allows for intensive customization to specific applications. However, since the secondary elements involved, such as carbon or chromium, are not always easy to obtain, certain alloys have a high price.

Some of the most common alloys are:

Aluminum: Lightweight, heat-resistant steel that is ductile and easy to machine, commonly used in hot exhaust systems and power generators.

: Lightweight, heat-resistant steel that is ductile and easy to machine, commonly used in hot exhaust systems and power generators. Copper: Corrosion-resistant steel that conducts heat very efficiently, making it a great choice for electrical conduit and industrial heat exchangers.

: Corrosion-resistant steel that conducts heat very efficiently, making it a great choice for electrical conduit and industrial heat exchangers. Manganese: High-impact steel that is extremely tough. It is found in bulletproof cabinets, anti-drill panels, and high-strength safes.

: High-impact steel that is extremely tough. It is found in bulletproof cabinets, anti-drill panels, and high-strength safes. Molybdenum: Weldable, corrosion-resistant steel that functions under high pressure, making it well suited for subsea construction or oil and gas pipelines.

: Weldable, corrosion-resistant steel that works under high pressure, making it well suited for subsea construction or oil and gas pipelines. Silicon: Soft steel that is malleable and highly magnetic, creating powerful permanent magnets used in electrical transformers.

: Mild steel that is malleable and highly magnetic, producing powerful permanent magnets used in electrical transformers. Vanadium: High-impact steel that absorbs shock and vibration and is commonly found in automotive parts such as springs and shock absorbers.

Their extreme versatility makes alloys an integral part of many construction projects. Copper and aluminum alloy grades are particularly popular for their light weight and heat form properties.

4. Tool steel

Tool steels are open to their business: they are used to machine tools. Tempering, adding high heat, rapid cooling and reheating produces tool steel that is extremely hard and heat resistant. They are typically used in high impact environments and are very abrasive.

types of tool steel

Different types of tools require different types of tool steels in production. Tool steel is used in a variety of ways to best meet the production needs of a specific tool. Added elements determine what specific applications it is suitable for.

Air Hardening: The high chromium content of this steel allows it to withstand high temperatures without warping.

: The high chromium content in this steel allows it to withstand high temperatures without warping. Water Hardening: This steel is water quenched during use; It is the cheapest tool type and is used to make common tools.

: This steel is water quenched during use; It is the cheapest tool type and is used to make common tools. Oil Hardening: This oil hardened steel is exceptionally hard wearing and is used to make knives and scissors.

: This oil-hardened steel is exceptionally hard-wearing and is used to make knives and scissors. High-speed: high-speed steel is very abrasive and impact-resistant. It is found in drills and chainsaws.

: High-speed steel is very abrasive and impact-resistant. It is found in drills and chainsaws. Hot stamping: the name gives it away, but this steel can withstand extreme heat and is used for forging and casting.

: As the name suggests, this steel can withstand extreme heat and is used for forging and casting. Impact Resistant: Small amounts of carbon, silicon and molybdenum harden this steel and make it suitable for punches and riveting tools.

These types can be further differentiated according to the industry in which they are used, as well as their hardness and toughness.

What are the different types of steel?

Steel is particularly complicated because of its many properties and uses. Two broad scoring systems have been developed to accurately categorize a given type even within subgroups. These systems are standardized across industries so material integrity can be assured. The two rating systems are:

ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials): Alphanumeric classification that indicates the overall categorization and specific properties of the steel.

: Alphanumeric classification giving the overall categorization of the steel and specific properties. SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers): Four-digit numerical classification emphasizing steel type and carbon content, as well as the presence of other alloying elements.

Steel is found everywhere, materialized in different forms to suit different needs. It is an integral part of many building materials, household appliances and even tools used to make other tools. By combining the right elements, a precisely fitting steel is available for almost every application.

Iron and carbon are proven versatile metals that are the building blocks for much of what we see in today’s modern cities, including transportation networks and telecommunications infrastructure. The use of steel has a long history and will continue well into the future as new ways of combining elements are discovered.

Additional sources: ThoughtCo 2 | 3 | 4 | Stahl.org | Science Direct 2 | 3 | SAE International | ASTM International

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For special grades of steel, we also need to use the following three methods of identification.

Grind

Grinding identification consists of grinding the stainless steel on the grinding machine and observing the spark. If the spark is streamlined and has denser knots, it is a high manganese or manganese nitrogen steel with a higher manganese content. If there is no knot, it is chrome steel or chrome-nickel stainless steel.

glow method

For cold-worked chromium-nickel stainless steel, if it’s magnetic, we can take a small piece and put it on the fire until it’s reddish, let it cool naturally, or put it in water to glow. In general, after annealing, the magnetic properties are significantly weakened or disappear completely. Some stainless chromium-nickel steels, such as However, steels such as Cr18Ni11Si4AlTi steel and Cr21Ni5Ti steel have a large amount of ferrite in their steel, and a significant part of their internal structure consists of ferrite. Therefore, it is magnetic even in the hot-worked state.

Chemical Qualitative Identification/Stainless Steel Identification Reagent

The best way to correctly distinguish grades of stainless steel is to use stainless steel identification reagents to identify them. This is also the easiest way.

The method of using the stainless steel identification reagent is to determine or discriminate by observing the color change characteristics. “Color change” is often associated with certain elements such as nickel (Ni), molybdenum (Mo) and manganese (Mn) in the steel tested. There are many reagents for identifying stainless steel on the market at present. In Shanghai, Ningbo and other places, some manufacturers specializing in the development of stainless steel identification/testing reagents have been in the market for a long time, while some of them are engaged in chemical technology. Chemical reagent companies have also developed stainless steel marking solutions for the needs of the stainless steel industry. Although the stainless steel identification reagent currently has many brands, the products appear to be the same and can be basically divided into two types. One type does not require a battery and the other must be equipped with a battery.

Test method (no battery reagent): Drop the stainless steel identification reagent on the surface of the stainless steel, observe the color change of the reagent after two minutes, and then distinguish the type of stainless steel.

The stainless steel identification reagent, which does not require the use of batteries, is often not divided. The use of such reagents to identify small steel is mainly done by measuring the color change of the droplets after the surface of the stainless steel and then distinguishing them by the chromatogram. For example, there is a stainless steel identification reagent on the market called “304” which is marked with four standard colors corresponding to four grades of stainless steel – 201, 202, 301, 304, of which 201 corresponds to deep red, 202 corresponds to red, 301 corresponds to light red and 304 corresponds to colorless or light yellow. These colors refer to the colors shown each time the Stainless Steel Identification Reagent is used for the test.

There are many types of identification reagents on the market that need to use batteries, such as: B. “Mo2, Low Ni, Ni2, Ni4, Ni6, Ni8, Ni14, Ni20, Ni40, Ni60” etc. Some products use “N” instead. from “Ni” on the label. “. These products can be used individually or in combination to determine the approximate content (percentage) of the corresponding elements Nickel (Ni), Molybdenum (Mo), Manganese (Mn) in steel and then distinguish steel according to the relevant standards.

For example, the method of using “Ni8” identification reagent. When using, first apply an appropriate amount of “Ni8” medicine to a clean steel surface, then connect the battery positive electrode to the steel plate, and connect the negative electrode to the “Ni8” medicine bead on the steel surface. Do not touch the steel surface. After a few seconds, turn off the power to observe the color change of the bead on the steel surface. When the color turns red, it indicates the nickel in the steel is about 8% or more, otherwise the color of the pearl will turn yellowish or unchanged. For example the use of “low Ni” identification reagents. The Low Ni Identification Reagent is a powerful weapon for the determination of low nickel (Ni) and high manganese (Mn) stainless steel. If the bead is purple after electrification, the manganese content in the steel is more than 6%, the nickel content is generally less than 5.5%. Generally, if the bead is colorless or light yellow, the stainless steel should be 301, 304, 430, or other materials.

Metal and steel are regularly used in the same sentence. That’s because steel, an extremely popular construction material, has the look and feel of cemented carbide, when in truth they’re not the same.

Yes that’s right. Although often overlooked, there are differences between metal and steel that mean they should not be used interchangeably.

In short, these differences are those listed below:

Metal – This is a chemical element composed of various opaque, fusible, ductile, and lustrous substances, with some of the most common metals being titanium, copper, and nickel.

Steel – In contrast, this is an alloy of iron that contains varying amounts of carbon. Since steel is an alloy, it is not a pure element and therefore not a metal. Instead, it’s actually a variant of a metal. Although steel is composed of iron, which is a metal, the non-metallic carbon in its chemical composition means it is not a pure metal, so it cannot be classified as such.

So there you have it. Steel is not a metal.

Keep this in mind for any future pub quizzes you take!

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Share on Pinterest We include products that we think our readers will find useful. If you make a purchase through links on this site, we may receive a small commission. Here is our process. Heavy metals occur naturally in the environment, in water, and in some foods and medicines. Heavy metals can enter your system through inhalation, skin absorption, or ingestion. Accumulation can lead to harmful toxicities. You may need to test for heavy metals if you have had recent or prolonged exposure to heavy metals or have symptoms of toxicity. Read on to learn more about heavy metals, when to test for them, and symptoms of poisoning. You can also check out our picks for the best heavy metal test kits.

What is a heavy metal test kit? A heavy metal test kit measures the presence of heavy metals in your body. Usually, the tests use a blood or urine sample, although it’s possible to use a hair, fingernail, or saliva sample.

When should you test for heavy metals? Consider testing for heavy metals if you are showing symptoms of toxicity or have been chronically or recently exposed to heavy metals. Exposure to heavy metals is more likely if you live in an industrial area or a home built before 1978. Mining, manufacturing, and construction work can also result in exposure. A lead test may be required in children under 6 years of age. They are at a higher risk of lead poisoning, especially if they live in elderly or low-income households. Also, test for heavy metals if you’ve ever smoked, eat large amounts of seafood, or have a thyroid disorder.

Symptoms of Excess Heavy Metals in the Body Elevated levels of heavy metals can cause health concerns. According to Medline Plus, symptoms of heavy metal poisoning include: Nausea

Vomit

stomach pain

Diarrhea

behavior changes

chills

weakness

shortness of breath

Tingling in hands and feet

Symptoms by Metal Type Metal Symptoms Arsenic

red or swollen skin

Skin changes including new warts or lesions

stomach pain

nausea and vomiting

Diarrhea

irregular heart rhythm

muscle cramps

Tingling in fingers and toes Cadmium fever

difficulty breathing

Muscle pain leads to constipation

aggressive behavior

sleep problems

irritability

high blood pressure

decreased appetite

anemia

headache

fatigue

memory loss

Loss of developmental skills in children mercury poor coordination

muscle weakness

hearing and speech difficulties

Nerve damage in the hands and face

vision changes

Difficulty walking Types and dangers of heavy metal poisoning The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) says heavy metal poisoning can cause health problems and death. Mercury poisoning can cause permanent damage to the nervous system and kidneys. Beryllium poisoning can lead to sensitization and lung and skin diseases. The toxicity of arsenic, lead and cadmium can cause death.

Types of Metals Detected by Test Kits Test kits can test for metals such as: e.g. aluminum

arsenic

cadmium

copper

iodine

to lead

Mercury

selenium

Thalium

zinc

How We Decided To select the best heavy metal test kits, we chose companies that offer transparency, excellent customer service and quality products. The companies provide accurate results that may involve interpretation and insight. The companies use certified laboratories that comply with state and federal regulations, including certification by the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA). Pricing Guide The price is indicated by a dollar sign as follows: $ = under $100

= under $100 $$ = $100–$200

= $100–$200 $$$ = over $200

Test Kit Comparison Test Price Collection Method Key Features Everlywell Heavy Metals Test $199

Urine testing Heavy metals and essential trace minerals from the environment HealthLabs Comprehensive Heavy Metals Profile $796 Urine requires testing in a lab 5Strands Metals & Minerals Test $66 Hair helps detect intolerance or sensitivities Health Testing Centers Heavy Metal Basic 24-hour urine test $129 Urine results can Indicates recent or current exposure to heavy metals

Frequently Asked Questions What is the best test for heavy metals? To test for heavy metals, blood and urine tests are usually the most accurate. How can I get tested for heavy metals? You can use a home test kit to determine heavy metal levels. Once you receive your test, you may need to register it online. Carefully follow the instructions to collect a blood, urine, or hair sample and send it to the appropriate laboratory. What is checked in a heavy metal test? A heavy metal test checks the levels of toxic metals in your body. Common heavy metals are lead, mercury, arsenic and cadmium. You can also test for copper, zinc, aluminum, and thallium.

A true symbol of high status, success and wealth, gold is a luxurious, coveted precious metal. But even if you own a hallmarked piece of gold, its hallmark is no guarantee of its real gold content. This article explores the best testing methods on how to do a proper gold test. Remember, you can always get a free premium valuation from our team of experts at NYC Bullion.

gold properties

Before proceeding with testing, you should know that gold is considered a durable metal because it:

Doesn’t tarnish or rust

Is not magnetic

Conducts heat and electricity

Is only dissolved by nitro-hydrochloric acid (1:3).

Is malleable, stretchy and stretchy – easy to hammer, press and cut into various shapes

Since gold is sparkling, it must also be alloyed with other metals. Its alloys are measured using either the carat system or the millesimal system of fineness. A karat unit is equal to 1/24th of pure gold in an alloy, while thousandths purity is expressed as parts per thousand of real gold by mass in an alloy. Take a look at the gold purity chart below for more details.

Carat System % of Gold Grade Millesimal Fineness System Gold or Non-Gold (US Standards) 8K 33.3 333 Non-Gold 9K 37.5 375 Non-Gold 10K 41.7 417 Gold Alloy 14K 58.3 583 (585) Gold Alloy 15K 62, 5 625 Gold Alloy 18K 75.0 750 Gold Alloy 20K 83.3 833 Gold Alloy 21K 87.5 875 Gold Alloy 22K 91.6 916 Gold Alloy 23K 95.8 958 Gold Alloy 24K 99.9 999 Pure Gold

To find out if your gold jewelry or gold bullion piece is fake or real, use the following gold testing methods. Domestic methods help you test for real gold, while professional tests reveal the exact fineness of your piece.

The magnifying glass test

The first and easiest home test for gold requires only a magnifying glass and your bullion or jewelry. Examine your piece carefully with the magnifying glass for these visual clues:

no signs of discoloration – gold does not react to environmental influences. So if your piece shows discoloration, it is either not gold plated or gold plated.

Color and Luster – Pure gold is not very lustrous and has a beautiful soft yellow color. Any shiny, yellow, or tinted (reddish) item is definitely not pure gold.

Hallmark/Stamp/Jewellery Marking Test

The second step is the stamp check, for which you may also need a magnifying glass. Look for gold hallmarks or jewelry hallmarks (within the finish or near the clasp). These markings must indicate at least the purity of the gold (in thousandths or carats) and may also include the maker’s stamp when jewelry is sold.

Look for the ‘HGP’, ‘GF’, ‘HEG’, ‘GP’, ‘HGE’, ‘RGP’, ‘GEP’ or ‘GP’ marks as they all mean the item is gold plated. Also avoid fake “800”, “925” or “950” markings on gold pieces as these are all hallmarks of silver. The stamp test is not 100% accurate and is only used to determine if the gold is not genuine or pure. If your item is marked gold but you still have doubts, proceed with further testing.

The skin test

The skin discoloration test is one of the easiest ways to test gold at home. Just hold your piece of gold in your hand for a few minutes. Real gold does not leave stains or stains on the skin. So if you notice a black or green chemical reaction with your sweat then it’s certainly an alloy.

However, remember that when you apply powder or liquid foundation to your tested area of ​​skin, a real gold object may leave a black streak on it, so your test will not be accurate. Therefore, before performing the gold test, make sure you are not wearing makeup and your skin is clean.

The float test

Another easy way to test gold jewelry or bullion at home is the float test, which involves placing your gold piece in a cup of water. Due to gold’s high density (19.32 g/ml), pure gold will immediately sink to the bottom of the cup. Fake or plated gold levitates or levitates above, while gold alloys tip halfway up. Even if your piece rusts or discolours, then it is a fake.

However, please keep in mind that a counterfeit item may consist of other heavy metals which will also sink. So use this test to spot fake gold that is floating or floating. If your item has sunk and you are still in doubt, do another test.

Porcelain tile test (or the scratch test)

The porcelain stoneware test, also known as the gold scratch test, requires a ceramic plate or a piece of unglazed porcelain stoneware tile. Scratch or rub your gold across the tile/slab and look at the color of the stripe. A gold yellow stripe indicates real gold while a black stripe indicates your item is counterfeit or pyrite. If you don’t want to damage your piece of gold, consider other harmless testing methods.

The magnet test

One of the easiest and most convenient at-home gold tests is the magnetic gold test, which requires a high-strength magnet. This solution is cheap and portable as a magnet is accessible anywhere and anytime. Since real gold is not magnetic, it will not be attracted to the magnet. Gold permitted or counterfeit items will immediately attract the magnet, while lightly attracted pieces are more likely to be gold plated. Also keep in mind that jewelry usually has strength elements (like wires, clasps) that are not made of gold and can be magnetic.

So if the magnet attracted your item, you can skip the following tests. Otherwise it is likely pure gold and further testing may need to be done for greater accuracy. Also remember that other precious metals (like silver) are also non-magnetic so make sure you do additional testing to confirm your item is real gold.

The acid test

If you don’t mind damaging or scratching the samples, you can use the auric acid test. You need to buy a gold test acid kit (for each karat), black gold test stone, gold karat needles and 2 glass beakers. One cup with baking soda/water mixture and the other with just water. Before testing gold with acid, be sure to choose a well-ventilated area and take all safety precautions to protect yourself and your work area from any contact with the acid.

Each bottle in the acid kit is a proprietary blend of nitric acid and other components. Take your gold sample and scratch a light line on the black stone to make sure you’ve gotten over any plating. Mark your line and make similar parallel lines with the other gold karat pins. Then take the lowest carat acid and apply its contents over or on each line and wait 30 seconds. Wash the stone in the baking soda and water mixture, then rinse with water and blot with a paper towel.

A reaction (resolved line) indicates your sample is of lower purity, a slight reaction means you have reached the karat, while no reaction indicates you have a higher karat of gold. If your sample did not react, repeat the test steps with the next acids until you agree on carat. If the last test acid in the kit is for 22K and you need to know if your piece is 23K or 24K, consider using gold testing machines.

Gold Testing Machines – Electronic and XRF Thermo Gold Test

The most benign and accurate test methods are the XRF thermal and electronic gold testers, such as the Sigma Metalytics Precious Metal Verifier and the XRF Thermo Scientific Analyzer.

Sigma Metalics machine

This device performs gold testing on bullion and jewelry without using chemicals or damaging them. It uses electromagnetic waves to determine the karat of your item based on the electrical properties of gold. The waves penetrate deep into the tested piece, ignoring its surface and assessing its body, only to display the result in a few seconds.

The Sigma Metalytics Electronic Gold Tester comes with different sized sensors for each gold sample. Additionally, if you wish to sell gold coins or other encased gold bars, you do not need to remove them from their protective holders. Simply place your sample on the appropriate sensor, select the expected purity, wait for the “Ready” message and press “RUN/CAL”. If the result is between the brackets, your tested piece corresponds to the selected fineness, while an up arrow indicates your piece is not gold.

XRF Thermo Scientific™ Gold Test

It is the most expensive precious metal tester, but the most accurate and non-destructive. This gold analyzer uses X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) spectrometer to test the gold piece. The device sends X-rays through the sample and causes atoms to be momentarily excited, pushing them into a higher energy state. As the atoms return to their ground state, they emit radiation that is detected and read by the machine. The machine returns the exact carat or metal composition of the tested piece. It is also equipped with a unique AuDIT™ gold plating detection technology that will alert you if the tested item is gold plated.

Free 100% Reliable Test – Free Professional Evaluation

The best and easiest way to test gold selling is to have it analyzed and appraised by professional appraisers like NYCBullion. Our team uses high quality digital gold testers including the Sigma Metalytics Precious Metal Verifier and the XRF Thermo Scientific Analyzer. Along with our world-class expertise, we guarantee a free, fully transparent valuation of your goods and the most generous offer on the market. You can get your free NYCBullion evaluation by either submitting your gold item or by visiting our store. If you have any questions, simply call us at (212)-354-5557, send us a message, or visit our retail office at 30 West 47th Street, New York, NY 10036.

Test these toxic metals and trace elements in the comfort of your own home

arsenic

Arsenic occurs naturally throughout the environment, e.g. B. in groundwater, in the air, in natural mineral deposits and in the soil. This toxic metal is also used in industrial processes and in various agricultural products such as insecticides, herbicides, fungicides, wood preservatives and dyes.

Because of the role arsenic plays in industry and manufacturing, workers in certain occupations may be at higher risk of exposure to arsenic. These jobs include glass making, pottery, vineyard work, smelting, refining metal ores, using and making pesticides, wood preservation, and semiconductor manufacturing.

However, for most people not exposed to these occupational hazards, diet is usually the primary source of arsenic exposure. Fruit, fruit juices and grains are the main dietary sources of arsenic. Rice and rice-based products can be particularly high in arsenic, often containing 10 times more arsenic than other grains such as wheat and barley.

Chronic (long-term) exposure to arsenic can lead to certain skin diseases such as arsenic keratinosis (precancerous skin lesions) and increase the risk of skin cancer. Arsenic poisoning can also lead to narrowing of blood flow, decreased nerve function, and lung, liver, kidney, bladder, and other cancers. If you think you have been exposed, contact your doctor immediately (they may recommend getting an arsenic test as soon as possible).

mercury

Mercury is a heavy metal that occurs naturally in the environment. It’s also quite toxic to humans: long-term exposure can not only increase the risk of cancer, but also damage blood vessels — which can damage the brain, heart, kidneys, and other organs.

Fish consumption is the main source of chronic mercury exposure. (Shark, swordfish, tilefish, and king mackerel are known to be particularly high in mercury.) Mercury enters water naturally from the Earth’s crust and gradually moves through the food chain — first finding its way into algae and bacteria, fish and shellfish, and then people. If you consume large amounts of seafood and shellfish, a mercury testing kit to check your body’s mercury levels can help you understand if your diet is contributing to abnormal levels of mercury.

cadmium

Cadmium is commonly used in industrial activities such as battery production. Long-term exposure to cadmium has been linked to an increased risk of cancer, and excess cadmium builds up in organs like the liver and kidneys – which can cause those organs to stop working properly. If you may have been exposed to high levels of this toxic metal, contact your doctor right away and consider getting a heavy metal poisoning test.

Cigarette smoke inhalation is the most common source of cadmium exposure, and smokers have approximately twice the cadmium levels of non-smokers. You can also be exposed to cadmium by eating cadmium-rich foods such as liver, mushrooms, shellfish, clams, cocoa powder, and dried seaweed.

In the United States, it is estimated that 2 in 100 people have elevated levels of cadmium. Metal workers and those involved in the manufacture of batteries, plastics and solar panels are particularly at risk of exposure to cadmium.

bromine

Bromine has no known beneficial function in the body, and long-term exposure to bromine can cause headaches, slurred speech, drowsiness, and impaired memory (among other effects).

At room temperature, bromine is a dark, red-brown liquid. Bromine occurs naturally in the earth’s crust and seawater, and is also used in chemical products such as water sanitizers, pesticides, flame retardants, and even certain food preservatives.

Exposure to bromine can occur from drinking bromine-contaminated food or water, from direct contact with liquid bromine, and from inhaling bromine gas vapors. Our heavy metal test kit includes a bromine test that allows you to check the levels of this toxic element in your body.

selenium

Selenium plays an important role in the body’s defense against free radical damage. (Free radicals are unstable compounds that form in the body and can “attack” important parts of cells like DNA.) Selenium is also involved in metabolism and immune system function.

Your body can’t make selenium, so you get it from the food you eat. Foods containing selenium include Brazil nuts, seafood, offal and/or animals raised in regions with selenium-rich soils. Meat is generally a good source of selenium, while fruits and vegetables are typically poor sources of this key nutrient.

However, long-term exposure or acute ingestion (single exposure to high levels of selenium in a short period of time) to high levels of selenium can lead to selenium poisoning or selenosis. Signs of selenosis can include patchy hair loss, brittle fingernails with white patches on the surface, decreased cognitive function, nausea, fatigue, and a smell of garlic. Everlywell’s heavy metal test includes a selenium lab test so you can determine if your selenium levels are too low or too high.

iodine

Iodine is a mineral that is essential to your health as it is used by your thyroid to make important hormones. With an iodine test (included in the heavy metal test) you can check whether your values ​​are within the normal range.

Your body can’t make iodine, so you get it from the food you eat instead. Common dietary sources of iodine include cheese, cow’s milk, eggs, seaweed (including kelp, dulse, nori), saltwater fish, and iodized table salt. If you think you’re not getting enough iodine from your diet, talking to your doctor and getting an iodine deficiency test can be some good next steps.

If you’re not getting enough iodine from your diet, your thyroid won’t be able to make enough of its hormones to send them through the body – which can lead to a condition known as hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid). But too much iodine can lead to excess levels of thyroid hormones and potentially cause hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid).

The difference between stainless steel and aluminum

Whether it’s metal railings, stairs, or some other structure, one of the first ways to determine whether you need stainless steel or aluminum is to simply think about where the metal will be used. Aluminum is softer than stainless steel and also lighter. Therefore, aluminum is often used in places where its properties are desired, e.g. B. in the gutters of your house, in the engine of your car, in the electronics and more.

Stainless steel, on the other hand, will be found wherever strength and rigidity are valued above all else. For example, custom items large and small are often made from stainless steel simply because it is so strong and durable.

Looks

Another big difference between aluminum and steel is the way each metal looks. With aluminum you will usually notice a gray color along with a matte texture. On the other hand, stainless steel is relatively shiny and often has a tint that is silver rather than gray. Of course, time and weather can alter this appearance somewhat, but stainless steel is still lighter and shinier than aluminum in most cases.

weight

Stainless steel is more than twice as heavy as aluminum. Aluminum is light while steel is heavy and dense.

density

Aluminum is much easier to scratch than stainless steel.

Both aluminum and stainless steel have an incredible number of uses, but they will only be most effective when used in applications that play to their strengths. Now that you know the key differences between the two, making sure you have the right material for the right job should be easy.

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Identification of base metals

Metals are identified by examining the properties of the numbers, including appearance (color, luster, signs of aging), weight, magnification (whether or not attracted to a magnet), usage (your bike spokes aren’t sterling silver), and hardness. Metal is often easy to identify. It can be more difficult when the metal is a small piece, for example when it is an embedded part of a larger ornate object.

What can make things even more difficult are alloys, i.e. mixtures of different metals with different percentages. Steel, for example, comes in varying percentages of different metals that give it different tones, hardness, and magnetism. Gold is almost 100% gold. . . Someone might call something a “copper alloy,” meaning the metal is copper metal, a smaller percentage of something else. Common alloy names are bronze, steel and brass.

It is seldom important for collectors to determine the exact percentages of base metal, but to establish a general designation. Calling something an aluminum alloy or an iron alloy is usually good enough. Collectors often just want a good label. When it comes to silver or gold, details matter. Precious metals (silver, gold and platinum) are covered in another.

magnetism

Some metals are attracted to a magnet and others are not. The magnet is a good aid, although not a definitive test, to identify metals. Metals are normally magnetic because they contain iron, although nickel is magnetic even though it does not contain iron.

Magnetic metals include iron, nickel, cobalt and most of their alloys. Some types of steel are magnetic, some are not.

Nonmagnetic metals include aluminum, copper, lead, tin, titanium, and zinc, and alloys such as brass and bronze. Precious metals like gold and silver are not magnetic. Platinum is not magnetic but can be magnetic in jewelry depending on what other metals it aligns with.

Mohs hardness scale. The Mohs hardness scale is useful in identifying metals and is a simple test. The hardness of a material is rated on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the hardest and 1 being the softest. Of course, you want to be careful not to scratch valuable antiques. It is best to carry out the endurance test in a non-visible area, e.g. B. on the ground.

The most common metals and approvals are listed below in alphabetical order.

Aluminum is fairly easy to identify as it is silvery white in color and is very light and pliable. It will not tarnish or rust and will always retain its silvery white colour. It is common and widely used, but not strong. It was used for toys, pins, and many inexpensive items. It has a Mohs hardness of 2.5-3 (about the same as gold) and it’s non-magnetic.

Brass (will be added later)

Bronze is usually an alloy of copper and tin, but architectural bronze actually contains a small amount of lead. Bronze is dark copper-like in color and turns a green oxide over time. Because bronze is an alloy, densities vary. Bronze vibrates like a bell when hit. It’s Mohs is 3

Chrome is easy to identify as it is a very, very shiny and bright silver color and forms a clear oxide over time meaning it rarely rusts or corrodes. Things are seldom pure chrome, but many things are coated with it to make them shine and not rust. Chromium’s Mohs value is 8.5, which is very harsh.

Copper is processed into many alloys, including brass and bronze. Copper is bright red in color and turns into a green oxide over time. Copper is not magnetic. Copper, like brass, vibrates like a bell when struck. It has a 2-1/2 to 3 poppy seed.

Iron is dull gray when unpolished and can rust to a reddish color. It is also used in many alloys such as steel. Iron is heavy and has a Mohs of 6-7.

Lead is a dull gray when unpolished but lustrous when polished. Lead isn’t magnetic Lead is extremely heavy, but not hard. It has a Moh of 4.

Magnesium is gray in color and develops an oxide that dulls the color. Magnesium is extremely flammable in powder form or in thin strips. Magnesium burns very brightly and hot and is very difficult to extinguish even with water. Magnesium can also burn without oxygen Magnesium is very light. Because magnesium is so light it is used in car engine blocks, and because it burns so brightly it is used in guns and fireworks. It’s soft with a Mohs rating of 2, but it can be scratched by glass.

Steel metal is used for a variety of reasons and comes in a variety of forms. It ranges in hardness from about 5 to 8. Some are magnetic and some are not. Hallmarks often identify it as steel. Old steel kitchen utensils are sometimes misidentified as silver.

Nickel is polished silver and unpolished darker. Nickel is one of the few metals that is not an alloy of iron, which is magnetic. Nickel has a Mohs of 4. Today’s nickel coins are not made of nickel.

Pewter is silvery gray in color when polished and darker in color when unpolished. Tin has a Mohs of 1.4

Titanium is a silver-grey metal when unpolished and darker when unpolished. Titan Mohs 6

Zinc is naturally dull gray and difficult to polish. Zinc will rust naturally or electroplated. Because of its low cost, zinc is the main metal in US pennies. Zinc’s Mohs hardness is 2.5, which is soft.

Elements can be classified as either metals or nonmetals based on their properties. Most of the time you can tell that an element is a metal by its metallic sheen, but that’s not the only difference between these two general groups of elements.

KEY FINDINGS: Difference Between Metals and Nonmetals The periodic table consists of elements that are metals, those that are nonmetals, and elements with properties that fall between the two groups (metalloids).

Metals are typically hard, metallic-looking solids with high electrical and thermal conductivity values ​​and high melting and boiling points.

Nonmetals tend to be softer, often more colorful elements. They can be solids, liquids or gases. They have lower melting and boiling points than most metals and are not usually good conductors.

metals

Most elements are metals. These include the alkali metals, alkaline earth metals, transition metals, lanthanides and actinides. On the periodic table, metals are separated from nonmetals by a zigzag line that runs through carbon, phosphorus, selenium, iodine, and radon. These elements and those to the right of them are nonmetals. Elements immediately to the left of the line can be referred to as metalloids or semimetals, and have properties intermediate between metals and nonmetals. The physical and chemical properties of metals and nonmetals can be used to distinguish them from one another.

Physical properties of metal:

shiny (shiny)

Good heat and electricity conductors

High melting point

High density (heavy for their size)

Malleable (can be hammered)

Ductile (can be drawn into wires)

Usually solid at room temperature (an exception is mercury)

Opaque as a thin sheet (cannot see through metals)

Metals are sonorous or produce a bell-like sound when struck

Metal chemical properties:

Have 1-3 electrons in the outer shell of each metal atom and lose electrons easily

Corrode easily (e.g. damaged by oxidation such as tarnishing or rusting)

Lose electrons easily

form oxides that are basic

Have lower electronegativity

Are good reducing agents

Metal: copper (left); Semimetal: arsenic (middle); and non-metal: sulfur (right). Matt Meadows, Getty Images

nonmetals

Nonmetals, with the exception of hydrogen, are on the right side of the periodic table. Elements that are nonmetals are hydrogen, carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, oxygen, sulfur, selenium, all halogens, and the noble gases.

Non-metallic physical properties:

Not glossy (matte appearance)

Poor conductors of heat and electricity

Non-ductile solids

Brittle solids

Can be solids, liquids or gases at room temperature

Transparent like a thin sheet

Nonmetals are not sonorous

Chemical Properties of Nonmetals:

Usually have 4-8 electrons in their outer shell

Gain or share valence electrons easily

Form oxides which are acidic

Have higher electronegativity

Are good oxidizing agents

Both metals and nonmetals take different forms (allotropes) that have different appearances and properties from each other. For example, graphite and diamond are two allotropes of nonmetallic carbon, while ferrite and austenite are two allotropes of iron. While non-metals can have an allotrope that appears metallic, all allotropes of metals look like what we imagine a metal to look like (shiny, shiny).

The Metalloids

The distinction between metals and non-metals is somewhat fuzzy. Elements with properties of both metals and nonmetals are called semimetals or semimetals. A stair step line roughly separates metals from nonmetals in the periodic table. However, chemists recognize that designating one element as a “metal” and the one next to it as a “semimetallic” is judgmental. In fact, most metals exhibit the properties of nonmetals under certain conditions, and nonmetals behave like metals in some situations.

Hydrogen is a good example of an element that sometimes acts as a nonmetal but sometimes acts as a metal. Under normal conditions, hydrogen is a gas. As such, it acts like a nonmetal. But under high pressure it becomes a solid metal. Also as a gas, hydrogen often forms the +1 cation (a metallic property). However, it sometimes forms the -1 anion (a nonmetallic property).

Sources

Determining the exact chemical composition of alloys is extremely important for a number of reasons, for example it may be necessary to verify that a critical component was made from the correct alloy when no factory test certificate is available or the validity of that certificate has expired.

There are hundreds of different alloy compositions, each with their own specific properties. Certain alloys of the same base metal composition can often have very different properties. An example of this is the resistance of stainless steel alloys to acid corrosion; Some steel alloys are very resistant to certain acids while others are not. Choosing the wrong grade can cause sudden and unpredictable failures.

The method of correctly identifying an alloy is called positive material identification (PMI). This is a generic term for various technologies and techniques used to determine the composition of an alloy. PMI can determine both elemental composition (quantitative) and alloying grade (qualitative). There are many different techniques used to determine alloy composition, but the two main techniques used in the PMI industry, XRF and OES, are discussed below.

Chemical composition of alloys using X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF)

X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy, or XRF, is a PMI method that uses low-energy X-rays to scan the chemical composition of alloys. A handheld device is used and can determine the composition of the alloy within seconds.

The X-rays excite the atoms in the sample, which then fluoresce and produce secondary X-rays that are reflected to the detector. The energy (or wavelength) of these reflected X-rays can be used to determine exactly what elements are in the sample. The composition of the alloy can thus be determined by the device.

It should be noted that due to the high degree of scattering of the X-rays at the metal atoms, the X-rays penetrate only about 100 micrometers deep into light metals. This depth decreases as the alloys become denser. It is therefore important that the surface of the material is representative of the bulk material. Any kind of coating on the surface, such as B. galvanic coatings, paint or surface contamination, will change the result of the scan dramatically.

Table 1 – Advantages/Disadvantages of XRF

Advantages Disadvantages The device is lightweight and easy to use Can measure as little as a few hundred microns into the surface of the sample on light alloys and a few tens of microns on heavier alloys Very little surface preparation is required on the sample Not all elements can be detected with this Technique, small pieces of material such as wire can be removed

Chemical composition of alloys using optical emission spectroscopy (OES)

Optical Emission Spectroscopy or OES is a PMI method that produces a spark on the sample in the presence of argon gas. The spark excites the atoms in the sample. These excited atoms emit light at specific frequencies, which are then used to accurately determine the composition of the alloy. Measurements can be made without the use of argon gas at the expense of the accuracy of the result.

One of the main advantages of OES is its ability to measure the light elements that are undetectable by XRF. Therefore, OES is a very versatile method for determining the chemical composition of alloys.

Table 1 – OES advantages/disadvantages

Advantages Disadvantages Can detect light alloying elements The system is bulky and requires argon gas for accurate results Burn marks remain on the material Extensive surface preparation is required

Materials Identifiable by PMI

XRF can identify up to 90% of the elements of the periodic table, i. H. Elements heavier than magnesium. Some of the typical alloys that can be identified by PMI are given below.

copper alloys

aluminum alloys

titanium alloys

Bronze and brass alloys

Chrome molybdenum alloys

stainless steel alloys

Nickel and cobalt alloys

XRF is unable to identify the precise composition of alloys containing elements lighter than magnesium (including lithium, beryllium, boron, carbon, nitrogen) such as B. the following:

Lithium-containing aluminum alloys

Beryllium-containing copper alloys

Low carbon steel

It should be noted that although XRF cannot recognize these elements, sometimes the alloy can still be identified by identifying the other alloying elements.

OES can identify all of the above elements, including alloys containing light elements such as carbon, lithium, boron and beryllium.

introduction

It is important to be able to identify both lead and copper. Lead metal and alloys and their corrosion products are toxic. They must be identified prior to any treatment so that lead contaminated material can be contained and disposed of as hazardous waste. Items containing lead may be covered with a dark patina (e.g. on old pewter) or white corrosion products (e.g. on a lead anchor on a wooden ship model in a display case or on lead tokens kept in a wooden cabinet). . The spot test described in this procedure can detect lead in either case. Some examples of items containing lead are shown under Items Containing Lead.

Copper alloys are usually identified by their reddish or yellow color, but some alloys may be indistinguishable from gold in color. In addition, certain white alloys contain copper, such as B. sterling silver (92.5% silver and 7.5% copper) or German silver, also called German silver (copper-rich alloys that contain nickel and zinc, but no silver). The copper spot test described in this procedure is sensitive enough to detect the copper in sterling silver, allowing the test to distinguish sterling silver from silver plate. For some examples of items containing copper, see Items Containing Copper.