Reasons to attend OES training

  • Do your operators complain they aren’t getting consistent results?
  • Do they say the instrument is difficult to manage?
  • Is the working environment dirty subjecting the instrument to harsh conditions?

Optical Emissions Spectrometers (OES) provide valuable information to the metals industry ensuring the material chemistry is correct and within the customer specifications. Unlike hand-held instruments, that are designed to not require in-depth training for operation, mobile and lab unit OES instruments provide more detailed information and require a greater level of operator knowledge in order to achieve accurate results and understand the data obtained.

These instruments take the elemental analysis to a more precise level than their hand-held counterparts. In order to avoid costly downtime or misinterpreted results, operators need to be properly trained.

A mobile or laboratory spectrometer is only as capable as the individual operating it. Operator training allows companies to get the best possible analysis performance from a spectrometer.

For an OES instrument operation to reach maximum potential, the user must select the correct program, ensure the parameters are set appropriately, standardize the instrument, correctly prepare the surface of the test item, and ensure results are interpreted correctly.

Periodic Maintenance of the instrument is only one part of ensuring the results achieved are correct. Increasing operator knowledge allows the operator to identify signs that lead to unplanned service repairs.

A well-trained operator will be able to address signs of failure and understand the proper actions needed to prevent instrument instability and downtime. Ensuring operators are following process controls will provide the necessary testing verification and traceability you need to answer any material questions that may arise with your customers.

Proper instrument training empowers the operator with the knowledge needed to conduct troubleshooting activities, perform routine maintenance that will ensure the instrument is performing optimally, sample management, and equipment set up.

Just as a dirty instrument can give inaccurate readings, an operator who does not fully understand the instrument and set-up can obtain data that is not repeatable or traceable. Training on specific instruments provides the operator with:

  • Increased awareness of proper handling methods to optimize instrument capabilities and functionality
  • A wider understanding of special applications
  • Familiarization with best practices
  • Hands-on time to confirm comprehension
  • Increased exposure to hardware and software

Even an operator who has years of experience with OES instruments can find value in training. Refreshing skills and best practices will improve operator knowledge and keep your business operations flowing.

Signs an operator requires spectrometer training:

  • Failure to recognize poor sample test results; Both visually and analytically
  • Analysis results fluctuate from test to test or operator to operator
  • Employee’s complain about using the instrument
  • Operators spend more time troubleshooting with Verichek technicians then operating the instrument
  • Operators find it difficult to select the correct analysis program

Good sample analysis burn

Good burn vs bad burn on the same sample

What an organization needs to consider when scheduling training:

  • Beginner or advanced operator training
  • In-house training at Verichek Technical Services, Inc. or onsite training at the customer’s facility
  • Beginner operator training and troubleshooting or advanced training and troubleshooting
  • Arc, Spark or Laboratory training

The difference Verichek Technical Services, Inc. brings to the training room is experience operating instruments effectively in multiple industries. From Arc sorting mild and low alloy steels or meeting API 578 requirements with a mobile spectrometer to certifying metal analysis results with a laboratory spectrometer. Verichek Technical Services, Inc. will help an organization reach analysis goals while minimizing instrument downtime.

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OES MAINTENANCE & CALIBRATION:
WHY IS IT IMPORTANT AND HOW WILL IT SAVE YOU MONEY

Periodic maintenance (PM) and calibration are essential tasks that you need to do on a regular basis to ensure that your equipment continues to function as intended.

Learn How Periodical Maintenance & Calibration Will Save You Money