Reduce risk and maintain compliance with our specialist risk management services.
We’re proud to be a leading provider of complete life cycle risk management solutions. From ensuring asset safety and legal compliance with our thorough engineering inspections to driving operational efficiency with our specialist non-destructive testing services, (and much more in between), we’re proud of the long-lasting partnerships we have formed with our customers over the last 160 years, based on the value of our solutions.
Positive Material Identification
Discover more about our industry leading PMI service!
Positive Material Inspection (PMI) is a Non-destructive Testing (NDT) method that can identify the metal or alloy of a piece of material without the need for a sample, making it ideal for a variety of applications.
Do you need to know what metal or alloy a piece of material is made from?
Our PMI service can help you find out, without the need for a material sample.
PMI is an NDT method, which means that it does not damage the material being inspected. It is also a fast and accurate method, making it ideal for a variety of applications.
PMI uses a handheld X-ray fluorescence analyser (XRF) to measure the amount of each element in a metal and can identify all ferrous and nickel-based alloys. Our team of specialist technicians are certified to use the XRF analyser and are committed to adhering to strict safety procedures in accordance with the Ironizing Radiation Regulations (IRR) regulations, in line with local rules for the use of the analyser.
We can also carry out Optical Emission Spectroscopy (OES) to verify your material composition.
PMI can be used for a variety of purposes, including:
- Material verification after purchase
- Verification of suspected rogue material
- Post-purchase material certification
- Pre-purchase verification at steel stockists
Schedule a consultation to discuss your testing requirements.
Get in touch today! Get in touch today! Get in touch today!Our process of unveiling truth and assurance
At BES Group, we elevate the art of PMI with a team of experienced and qualified PMI technicians who possess the expertise to navigate the intricacies of this method. Our state-of-the-art NDT laboratory provides a controlled environment for precise inspections, while our on-site capabilities enable us to reach your location with efficiency.
The PMI process unfolds with meticulous precision, ensuring the accuracy of your material identification:
1. Sample preparation
The material to be inspected is thoroughly cleaned, eliminating any debris or contaminants that could hinder the XRF analyser’s effectiveness.
2. Measurement
The XRF analyser, a portable handheld device, measures the amount of each element present within the material.
3. Identification
With its advanced algorithms, the XRF analyser identifies the specific metal or alloy of the material, providing you with irrefutable knowledge of its composition.
4. Results confirmation
One of our expert technicians meticulously reviews the results to ensure their accuracy, signing off on a comprehensive test report.
Key benefits of our Positive Material Identification service
Flexible
Due to the small size of the equipment used to complete PMI, the inspections can be carried out in confined spaces.
Instant results
PMI is a fast and efficient testing method which means that you will have your results in a timely manner.
Portable
As the equipment used to do PMI is portable, this allows for your materials to be tested at your site.
Flexible
Due to the small size of the equipment used to complete PMI, the inspections can be carried out in confined spaces.
Instant results
PMI is a fast and efficient testing method which means that you will have your results in a timely manner.
Portable
As the equipment used to do PMI is portable, this allows for your materials to be tested at your site.
Hear what our customers have to say
We care about the journey we take our customers on, but it’s not our word you should be taking, see what our customers think of the service we provided!
“
BES is a really disruptive force in the market, they are able to provide a variety of necessary services to their customers and none of the other big players are able to provide that breadth of services.
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Industry competitor
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We have been with BES for the past 5 years and don’t plan on switching providers. They are very flexible with their services and are able to bring the best inspectors who can deal with on the ground challenges and build real relationships with clients.
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Customer
Global Technical Services Manager
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The BES inspectors are way more technically competent and diligent compared to other providers. BES definitely stands out due to their strong technical competence and strong back office support.
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Customer
Project Operations Manager
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The industry requires competence to be demonstrated, typically through UKAS accreditation, which is a prerequisite for many major clients. BES is type A accredited, which is preferred, they can provide highly objective opinions.
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Customer
Senior Project Manager
FAQs
What materials can be identified with PMI?
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PMI can be used to identify a wide range of materials, from ferrous and non-ferrous metals to plastics and composites.
Why choose us
NDT expertise
BES Group has a team of experienced and qualified NDT inspectors who can use our complete suite of NDT techniques to inspect a wide variety of equipment and assets.
Qualified service
Our team are qualified to PCN Level 3 and ASNT NDT, and adhere to the BS EN ISO 9712 standard.
Trusted reliability
BES Group is a trusted and reliable provider of NDT services. We're proud to have a proven track record of providing high-quality services that meet the needs of our customers.
35,000 satisfied customers
We've built a strong reputation for providing exceptional service to over 35,000 satisfied customers from diverse industries. Our unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction has resulted in long-standing partnerships and unwavering trust.
800+ expert engineers
Our team of over 800 skilled engineers possesses a wealth of knowledge and expertise in a range of disciplines. Their deep understanding of your equipment and operating conditions ensures that they deliver proactive solutions that optimise asset performance and minimise downtime
A legacy of 160+ years of experience
With over 160 years of experience in the industry, we've witnessed the evolution of industry practices and have adapted our approach to meet the ever-changing needs of our customers. Our deep understanding of asset management, compliance and predictive technologies enables us to deliver cutting-edge solutions that drive operational excellence.
Our related services
Eddy Current Testing
Visual Inspection
Q10 Material Sampling and Analysis
Radiography
Ultrasonic Testing
Liquid (Dye) Penetrant Inspection
Magnetic Particle Inspection
Our sectors
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