In the manufacture of small precise-to-form forgings for the aero-space industry, components, many of identical shape, in a wide range of alloys are processed at the same time. Methods of alloy classification employed have developed from chemical spot checks up to automatic read-out spectrographs, which produce a high spectrum dispersion. This technique necessitates highly skilled operators and introduces a mental fatigue factor. This paper describes the development of a direct reading automatic read-out unit capable of operation by personnel having a minimum of training. A special counter-electrode and feed system was required. Due to the variation in surface finish and geometric shape of the forgings, the simple setting procedure envisaged was not practical and use of a trimming standard was required as an integral part of the procedure. The unit has been in production for over two years and has completed over 900 000 alloy classifications.