MQA™
Analyze Steel Inclusions Using Automated SEM
For years, inclusion analysis has been at the forefront of investigative work to determine castability issues and improve product quality. The control of inclusions relies on accurate knowledge about the phase changes and their compositional relation under various chemical and thermal conditions during processing. Given the direct link between the inclusion content and the steel production process, manufacturers of steel demand an analyzer that can operate under adverse conditions—and still provide process specific metrics.
The ASPEX® Metal Quality Analyzer (MQA™) provides up-to-date information of the inclusion compositional on lollipop, as cast, and final product samples. Once fully implemented through our support network, the MQA™ provides the necessary information that can result in savings of over $1,000,000 per year, whether through energy savings or consumable consumption.
Published literature reveal various approaches for addressing inclusion investigations. Two main goals are featured throughout: (1) Inclusion engineering and (2) Determining detrimental inclusions types. The MQA™ is the first dedicated SEM/EDS system for process control in steel mills.
Most EDS-based analyzers are found in research laboratories and not at the production floor, largely due to their inability to handle adverse environments. In addition, the skill set of the operators needs to be such that they are SEM and EDS experts.
When you require more than an SEM/EDS system can offer, the MQA™ relies on turnkey solutions to provide the customized information you desire. Whether it’s heat trending or inclusion chemistry, the MQA™ provides the information you need when you want it.
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