Know exactly what your metal contains.
Reliable material decisions begin with reliable analytical results.
Metal Spark is a specialised metallurgical laboratory in Diest, Belgium, providing chemical analysis and material identification for a wide range of metals and alloys.
Whether you need to verify a material certificate, identify an unknown alloy or investigate a quality problem, we combine high-performance analytical equipment with practical metallurgical expertise to help you obtain a clear answer.
From chemical composition to material verification.
Chemical composition
We determine the elemental composition of metal samples using Spark Optical Emission Spectrometry (Spark-OES). The resulting analysis report presents the measured concentrations of the relevant elements.
Material identification
When the material grade is unknown, we use the measured chemical composition and relevant technical information to assess which material or alloy the sample corresponds to.
Material verification
Do you need to check whether a supplied material matches the specified grade? We can analyse the sample and compare the results with the relevant material specification or available documentation.
Material certificate checks
Where appropriate, measured results can be compared with supplier certificates to help identify discrepancies between the documented and measured composition.
Carbon equivalent and weldability-related questions
For suitable steel grades, we can calculate the Carbon Equivalent (CEV) from the chemical composition. This value can contribute to a weldability assessment, although it does not replace a complete evaluation of welding conditions and material properties.
Hardness testing
We also offer portable Leeb hardness measurements. Depending on the component and the requirements, measurements can be carried out in the laboratory or on-site.
Broad analytical capabilities for industrial materials.
Our analytical capabilities cover a wide range of metal matrices, including:
- Iron-based materials: carbon steel, low-alloy and high-alloy steel, stainless steel, tool steel, manganese steel and cast iron.
- Aluminium: aluminium and suitable aluminium alloys.
- Copper-based materials: copper, brass, bronze and gunmetal.
- Nickel-based materials: nickel and nickel alloys.
- Titanium: titanium and titanium alloys.
- Cobalt: cobalt and cobalt alloys.
- Zinc: zinc and suitable zinc-based materials.
The elements that can be determined depend on the material matrix, analytical method and measurement conditions. Not every combination of elements and matrices falls within our accreditation scope.
If you are unsure whether your material can be analysed, contact us with the material description or a photograph of the sample.
The right technique for the question.
Stationary Spark-OES
Our laboratory uses a high-performance Spectrolab S optical emission spectrometer for elemental analysis of metals. Spark-OES is particularly useful for determining the chemical composition of suitable metallic samples across a range of relevant matrices.
Mobile analytical equipment
For suitable applications, our mobile Spark-OES and XRF equipment can be used directly at customer locations. More information is available on our dedicated on-site analysis page.
Sample preparation
Accurate analysis starts with an appropriate measurement surface. We can prepare samples using suitable grinding, machining and surface preparation methods. Special measurement adapters allow us to accommodate certain non-standard sample geometries.
Quality assurance
Our analytical processes are supported by instrument checks, reference materials and method controls appropriate to the technique. This helps us maintain confidence in the reliability and consistency of the results.
Your sample doesn't need to be a standard test piece.
Unusual shape? Send us a photograph.
Metal samples come in many forms. We can assess a wide variety of geometries, including:
- Wires and thin sheets
- Bars and cylinders
- Tubes, pipes and fittings
- Cast components
- Machine parts and industrial components
- Small or unusually shaped samples
- Certain large or heavy components
The suitability of a sample depends on its material, dimensions, surface condition and the analytical method required. Our preparation equipment and specialised adapters help us analyse many samples that would be difficult to measure using standard arrangements.
Reliable results, clearly reported.
Metal Spark is accredited by BELAC according to ISO/IEC 17025 under certificate 705-TEST.
Accreditation applies only to the activities, methods, elements and matrices specified in the official scope of accreditation. Where accreditation is required, we can assess whether the requested analysis falls within that scope.
We understand that analytical results are often needed to support quality decisions, supplier discussions, audits or technical investigations.
Our goal is to deliver clear, useful reports as quickly as possible. We aim to provide reports within 24 hours of sample receipt, subject to the nature and requirements of the analysis.
BELAC accreditation 705-TEST
ISO/IEC 17025, for the activities in the official scope of accreditation.
Not sure which analysis you need?
You do not need to select an instrument or analytical method before contacting us.
Explain what the material is, what you want to verify and how you intend to use the results. We will help you determine the most appropriate analytical approach.
For more complex problems, such as unexpected failures, corrosion or metallurgical defects, additional investigations may be required. Where appropriate, we can coordinate with specialised partner laboratories.