NDT Services

PMI (Positive Material Indentification) Test

Positive Material Identification (PMI) is a fast, non-destructive technique that provides a semi-quantitative chemical analysis of various components and assets, used for both material verification and identification. This method is crucial across numerous industries, including oil and gas, power, chemical, pharmaceutical, nuclear, aerospace, and fabrication, for production, asset integrity management, quality control, and safety compliance.

Accurate material identification through PMI helps prevent potential product failures in manufacturing. Conducting pre-service and in-service PMI inspections on critical components and welds in oil and gas, power generation, and pharmaceutical facilities can prevent costly breakdowns and ensure operational reliability.

We at Sukhakartatechengg offer professional non-destructive testing services as well as ultrasonic testing services in pune . Our cutting-edge methods guarantee precise fault identification in materials, providing non-invasive solutions that preserve the integrity of your assets and adhere to strict industry requirements.

PMI can:

  • Confirm that the correct alloy was used in the production of products or components.
  • Detect any mixed or incorrect alloys.
  • Ensure that the material used meets the required standards and specifications, both for the customer and the industry.
  • Verify that the appropriate filler material was used in welded components.

Positive material identification (PMI) is conducted using two primary techniques:

  • X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) Analyser: This portable hand-held device is the most common method for on-site PMI, allowing the company to perform tests directly at customers' locations. It scans metal to identify its key components. However, it is not suitable for identifying pure carbon steel materials or certain lighter elements.
  • Optical Emission Spectroscopy (OES): This technique can detect nearly any element, including carbon and lighter elements, making it ideal for carbon steel identification. Although less portable than XRF, the equipment can be transported to sites and used at high altitudes with the right lifting systems.
  • Highly skilled PMI inspectors provide immediate results, which can be certified in a report. If additional analysis is required, the company offers fully quantitative laboratory techniques. The quick turnaround times ensure adherence to production or inspection schedules.