Spark patterns?

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Hello all, A quick query. I've heard (and imagine believe to be true) that different metals and alloys have different spark patterns when ground. I'm wondering if anyone can share any insight as to the truth of this. Also, if it is true, then which alloys produce what spark colors and patterns? Its not all that important but I like learning so I figured I'd throw it out there.Thanks much,Marc
Reply:Hey Mark,Yes, many cast iron & steel properties can be identified by the spark patterns. Here's a link to give you some info. & illustrations of the spark patterns.Dennyhttp://www.weldprocedures.com/metal-identification.htmlComplete Welding/Machine/Fab. ShopMobile UnitFinally retired*Moderator*"A man's word is his honor...without honor there is nothing.""Words are like bullets.... Once they leave your muzzle, you cannot get them back."
Reply:Yorkiepap, Thank you very much for the info. I can tell that this will take a bit of getting used to but with time and practice should come.Once again, Thank you, Marc
Reply:When you are doing a spark test, always try and perform the tet under the same conditions. I prefer to do it at the work bench using an angle grinder, as I can get a better view of the spark stream when it is horizontal as opposed to vertical off of a bench grinder. You want to do the test under the same lighting conditions, as the spark color will appear a lot different outside under daylight, inside under flourescent light, or under mercury vapor lighting.What appears to be red under one light may look orange under a different set of lights. Always have sample pieces available (low carbon, med/high carbon/ chromemoly, cast iron) so that you can do comparative testing. There are a lot of theings to look for, and it will take quite a while before you can pick out some of the slight differences in the spark characteristics. You will be able to instill confidence in a customer as well as yourself when he brings you a broken item and tells you that he wants it fixed but isn't sure what it is made of, and you touch it with a grinder, and are able to let him know in five seconds. We all use grinders on a regular basis, and should be making a mental note of the observations each time.
Reply:Than you profab,I watched the sparks off of some mild steel today and it's not as difficult as I thought it would be. No I might need to snag a cast iron frying pan from my mother and grind it down a bit. She is NOT going to be happy. All in the name of education I suppose.Thanks again,Marc
Reply:Be sure to always use the same pressure against the stone, as it will affect the sparks length, and that is one of the indicators. Cosistent results demand that you follow your procedures as closely as possible.The education never ends!