How Carbon Sulfur Analyzers Improve Carbon/Sulfur Accuracy in Metals
Carbon and sulfur content has a direct impact on the mechanical properties, weldability and compliance of steel, alloys and other metals. High-frequency infrared carbon sulfur analyzers are the standard tool for fast, precise C/S determination in production and quality-control laboratories.
How it works
The sample is burned in a high-frequency induction furnace in an oxygen stream. Carbon oxidizes to CO/CO₂ and sulfur to SO₂; a non-dispersive infrared detector measures the gases, and the result is calculated against calibrated standards.
Key factors for accurate results
- Sample preparation: remove surface oxides and oil, keep sample chips dry and below the recommended size, and weigh accurately (typically up to 1 g).
- Calibration: use certified reference standards of similar matrix and content range, and verify regularly.
- Gas flow and temperature: a constant-temperature infrared cell and stable carrier flow reduce drift from ambient changes.
- Furnace control: full-function power control and automatic segmented leak checks keep combustion consistent run to run.
What to look for in an analyzer
- High/low carbon and high/low sulfur channels for wide coverage.
- 24-bit ADC acquisition for better resolution at trace levels.
- Automatic diagnostics and protection to reduce downtime.
For most steel, foundry and alloy applications, a well-maintained high-frequency infrared C/S analyzer delivers repeatability and accuracy well within routine quality-control requirements.