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PMI (Positive Material Identification) Testing
PMI is a non-destructive (or minimally invasive) test that verifies whether a metal or alloy part is actually made from its specified material. It's critical for manufacturers and operators in petrochemical, energy, and pipeline industries: using the wrong material creates serious safety risk, especially in pressure equipment and piping. We manage this verification through our accredited laboratory infrastructure.
Key Facts
- Methods
- XRF (X-ray fluorescence) and OES (optical emission spectroscopy)
- Related standards
- API RP 578, ASTM E1476
- Tolerance
- ±10% on major alloying elements (±5% for critical service)
- XRF characteristics
- Fast, non-marking, safe on thin sections — cannot detect carbon content
- OES characteristics
- Reads a fuller spectrum including carbon — leaves a small mark, needs purge gas
Who needs this?
Relevant for petrochemical and refinery facilities, pipeline and pressure equipment manufacturers/operators, power plants, construction/steel structure companies, and any manufacturer doing weld/fabrication quality control. API RP 578 makes a material verification program mandatory at refinery and petrochemical facilities.
How the Process Works
Scope Definition
We define which parts/lines to test, critical service conditions, and the required tolerance level (±10% or ±5%).
Field or Laboratory Testing
XRF for fast screening, with OES verification for carbon content when needed — through our accredited laboratory infrastructure or on-site with portable equipment.
Reporting
We deliver a report comparing the measured alloy composition against the specification, with a clear pass/fail result.
Get a quote for PMI testing
Tell us about the part/line to be tested and the criticality level, and we'll determine the right method together.
Request Your PMI Test