Homogeneity

The homogeneity of alloying elements within the whole ingot give targets makers a major advantage
Pechiney High Purity's know-how in the field of continuous casting ensures the best distribution of alloying elements (Silicon, Copper, Titanium) throughout the whole volume of billets. Typically, analysis of alloying elements does not vary by more than 10% (relative) from one point to another, on a whole casting lot (more than 300 kg). This reduces strongly the need for a target by target composition control. The Mercus laboratory uses several analytical techniques to guarantee that the delivered product always has the same concentration of alloying elements : X-ray fluorescence , Instrumental neutron activation (INAA, ANESI) Inductively coupled plasma (ICP)
Some results about homogeneity
Across diameter and along the ingots
Variability inside a casting lot : +/- 5% variation around the mean value specific of the whole casting lot
Analysis using X Ray Fluorescence across slices Diameter 190 mm for 30 different casting lots.




Thus the PHP production and analytical processes provide target makers with the most security as regards homogeneity of alloying elements.