ISO 11873:2005

ISO 11873:2005 Overview

ISO 11873:2005 is an international standard established by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) that defines a precise method for determining sulfur and carbon contents in cobalt metal powders. This method utilizes combustion in oxygen followed by infrared (IR) detection of combustion gases-carbon dioxide (CO2) and sulfur dioxide (SO2)-to measure sulfur and carbon levels accurately. The standard covers sulfur and carbon contents in the range of 0.001% to 0.1% by mass, ensuring high-sensitivity analysis critical for the quality control of cobalt powders used in hardmetal applications.

This standard supports manufacturers and testing laboratories in maintaining consistent quality and compliance with global benchmarks for cobalt powders, which play an essential role in producing durable hardmetals.

Key Topics Covered

• Scope and Application
  ISO 11873:2005 specifies a method suitable for quantifying low sulfur and carbon levels in cobalt powders, a key raw material in hardmetal production.

• Testing Methodology
  The procedure involves weighting a precise sample size (typically 0.5 to 1.5 grams), mixing with tungsten granules and iron chips as combustion aids, combusting the sample in an oxygen atmosphere, and detecting combustion products via infrared sensors.

• Calibration and Validation
  The standard emphasizes rigorous calibration using blank tests and certified reference materials to guarantee analytical accuracy. It mandates repeatability within defined tolerance ranges for reliable results.

• Result Expression and Reporting
  Results are calculated as the mass fraction of sulfur and carbon and reported to three decimal places (0.001%). The test report requires detailed documentation including sample identification, test results, deviations, and adherence to the standard.

• Quality Reagents
  Use of highest purity oxygen and specific particle sizes for combustion aids is critical to prevent contamination and ensure precise measurements.

Practical Applications

• Hardmetal Manufacturing
  Precise measurement of sulfur and carbon contents in cobalt powders influences the physical characteristics and performance of hardmetals used in cutting tools, wear-resistant parts, and industrial machinery.

• Quality Control Laboratories
  Testing facilities benefit from ISO 11873:2005 by implementing a standardized, internationally recognized method ensuring consistent and reproducible elemental analysis results.

• Material Certification
  Suppliers and purchasers of cobalt metal powders rely on this standard to verify the compliance of raw materials with specifications, supporting traceability and reliability in the supply chain.

• Research and Development
  Advanced material research involving cobalt-based hardmetals uses the infrared detection method to assess powder purity and optimize formulations for enhanced hardness and durability.

Related Standards

• ISO 5725
  This standard on the accuracy (trueness and precision) of measurement methods complements ISO 11873:2005 by providing guidelines to ensure valid and reliable test results.

• ISO/TC 119
  The technical committee responsible for powder metallurgy standards, including sampling and testing methods related to hardmetals characterized by cobalt powders.

• Other Elemental Analysis Standards
  Standards detailing methods for determining impurities like oxygen, nitrogen, and hydrogen in powders, which often form part of an integrated analysis protocol in materials testing.

By adhering to ISO 11873:2005, industries engaged in hardmetal production and cobalt powder analysis can guarantee high-fidelity sulfur and carbon measurement utilizing infrared detection methods. This standard fosters quality assurance, regulatory compliance, and global harmonization of testing protocols for critical raw materials in metallurgical applications.