Handheld EDXRF Spectrometer Offers Breakthrough Speed, Accuracy, and Ease of Use

KLEVE, Germany, October 2011 — SPECTRO Analytical Instruments, a leading supplier of analytical instruments for optical emission and XRF spectrometry, has introduced the next-generation SPECTRO xSORT handheld energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) spectrometer. The new instrument comes in a smaller, lightweight package that offers better analytical performance, and incorporates many exclusive new features.

The new xSORT is designed for high-throughput elemental testing and spectrochemical analysis of a wide range of metals and other materials in the field. Its speed, accuracy and ease of use set new benchmarks for handheld spectrometric performance. SPECTRO xSORT is ideal for applications, including positive material identification (PMI) and environmental screening, recycling of alloys, precious metals, and aluminum, plus mining and compliance screening.

“Users were requesting more speed, higher accuracy and greater operating simplicity in the field,” notes Dirk Wissmann, Senior Product Manager. “For many jobs, such as material verification, our new instrument delivers highly reliable analyses in two seconds! And, for more complex matrices such as in environmental screening, SPECTRO xSORT achieves very low detection limits without the need for complex sample preparation.”

The new xSORT also is available with time and cost-saving features, such as an integrated video camera for precise spot testing and visual memory storage. Also available is an integrated global positioning system (GPS) that allows users to quickly return to previously checked locations without time-wasting resurveys.

Two-second Analysis

For metals and most alloys, SPECTRO xSORT delivers grade identification and material verification within two seconds of clicking its trigger. Pre-installed grade libraries cover common alloys used in industry. Even light-metal alloys require only 12 seconds to process.

“High-volume users, such as service companies doing PMI, may use SPECTRO xSORT to complete hundreds of inspections per shift with greatly enhanced productivity and profitability,” adds Wissmann.

Exceptionally Low Detection Limits

The SPECTRO xSORT offers exceptionally low detection limits— down to the parts-per-million (ppm) range — for analyses of heavy metals. This allows the instrument to deliver accuracy that rivals laboratory analysis results. In addition, the system includes an optional docking unit for stationary operation, adding stability for very small samples along with extended analysis with ultra-low detection limits.

Lightweight, Compact Design

With SPECTRO xSORT, operators don’t need to switch methods between metals or use complicated flushes or vacuum systems. The instrument’s light weight (1.64 kg or 3.62 lb) and compact, one-piece design make it optimal for easy use in the field, even in areas that are less accessible.

The instrument comes equipped with the exclusive SPECTRO ICAL system, which includes the integrated standardization sample for fast and seamless system set-up. Its simplified software features an intuitive touchscreen interface with two menu levels. For more information, visit https://www.spectro.com/products/xrf-spectrometer/xsort-xrf-gun-handheld-analyzer.