Segregating Duplex steels by Nitrogen and Carbon content

The latest version of SPECTROTEST from SPECTRO Analytical is the only mobile OES Spectrometer capable of segregating Duplex steels by Nitrogen content, and also the only one that can measure Carbon in steels down to 0.1% without the need for argon flushing. This is the latest step in a continuous process of product improvement since the first SPECTROTEST was introduced in 1979.

A number of advances in technology have made this possible. The "Plasma Generator" totally digital spark control accurately defines and controls the energy in the plasma, which significantly improves precision, reproducibility and measuring speed. The sample probe is new too: it is lighter, slimmer and more convenient to use when space is restricted. The patented new scrubbing system improves the optical performance to permit the measurement of Carbon in low alloy steels in air.  An optional UV probe permits the measurement of light elements such as N, P, S, Be and B and can be interchanged with the standard probe in seconds. This advanced technology is combined with a rugged, compact but high performance optical system that uses the latest CCD detector technology. The SPECTROTEST also uses ICAL, SPECTRO's Intelligent Calibration Logic, that monitors the instrument's performance and automatically corrects for any calibration drift using a single control sample. For PMI, alloy grades are quickly identified against the instrument's internal libraries. Another feature that makes the user's task easier is APF (Automatic Programme Finding) which uses the measured spectrum to ensure that the best measurement parameters and programme are used for the sample.

For PMI, alloy grades are quickly identified against the instrument's internal libraries.

SPECTRO Analytical Instruments in profile
SPECTRO Analytical Instruments is one of the worldwide leading suppliers of analytical instruments for optical emission and X-ray fluorescence spectrometry. SPECTRO manufactures advanced instruments, develops the best solutions for strongly varying applications and provides exemplary customer service. SPECTRO's products are exemplified by unique technical capabilities that deliver measureable benefits to the customer.  From its foundation in 1979 until today, more than 30,000 analytical instruments have been delivered to customers around the world.

AMETEK, Inc. is a leading global manufacturer of electronic instruments and electric motors with an annual turnover of approximately 2.9 billion US$. AMETEK's corporate growth plan is based on four key strategies: Operative excellence, strategic acquisitions and alliances, geographic and market expansion as well as new products. AMETEK's common stock is a component of the S&P MidCap 400 Index and the Russell 1000 Index.

For further information, e-mail: sales@spectro.co.uk or view website: www.spectro.com

Fusion of technologies enhances current metal analysis capabilities

25 years experience is built-in-to SPECTROLAB, arguably the most advanced instrument for metals analysis currently available. Innovations in optical design, sample excitation and data handling combine to provide superb analytical performance and flexibility for the most demanding applications.

The heart of SPECTROLAB is a unique hybrid optical system that combines improved, high performance CCD detectors and up to 108 photomultipliers in a single high resolution spectrometer. The two detection systems can be used seamlessly together, combining excellent detection limits and total flexibility, including the ability to handle demanding applications like single-spark measurements and time-resolved spectroscopy. Stability over the full wave length range of 120-780nm and exceptional far-UV performance are achieved with precise temperature stabilisation and SPECTRO's proven UV-PLUS sealed argon system.

SPECTROLAB's sample excitation system, the 'Plasma Generator' is the first to use completely digital technology, achieving a much more stable energy output. This results in significantly improved analytical precision and has also enabled measurement times to be reduced, with some standard routine analysis being completed in around 18 seconds. The redesigned spark stand has minimised inner chamber volume, giving more efficient removal of sample condensate for reduced maintenance and low argon consumption.

The advanced readout system can handle the vast amount of data from both CCD and PMT detectors simultaneously. Not only can the entire spectrum be displayed after each run, ideal for the analysis of unknown or new materials, but the signals from the photomultiplier tubes can be individually processed to suit applications like time-resolved spectroscopy.

For further information, e-mail: sales@spectro.co.uk or view website: www.spectro.com

A compact OES spectrometer with big instrument performance

The latest generation of the market-leading SPECTROMAXx from SPECTRO Analytical Instruments delivers the analytical performance of a laboratory-based optical emission system but is equally at home in the foundry.

The SPECTROMAXx is one of the most successful OES metals analysers on the market, with thousands installed worldwide. All the important elements encountered in the metals industry can be determined with the SPECTROMAXx, including traces of carbon, phosphorus, sulphur and nitrogen - SPECTROMAXx can now measure nitrogen down to 10ppm. Sample excitation is digitally controlled, giving exactly defined plasma conditions and better analytical precision. A range of special sample adaptors for small samples is also available. The spark stand has been optimised for low argon consumption, but a new Argon Saving Module takes this further: the instrument can not only be programmed to shut off the argon flow completely when the instrument is not in use for analysis, but also to restore it automatically so that the instrument is ready and stabilized for the next analysis. Depending on the instrument duty cycle, savings of up to 40% in argon consumption can be realised. The high-resolution, temperature stabilised optics can be configured to suit a customer's application over an available range from 140 to 670 nm and use the latest multiple CCD detectors.

The SPECTROMAXx is one of the most successful OES metals analysers on the market.

ICAL is SPECTRO Analytical Instruments' unique logic program that detects and compensates for any instrument fluctuations. Measurement of a single control sample standardises the instrument for all wavelengths and signal intensities, avoiding the need for multi-standard recalibrations and repeat measurements.

SPECTROMAXx is one of the world's most successful and reliable metal analyzers. It is also the first to be covered by AMECARE Performance Services, the newly introduced aftercare programme from SPECTRO. AMECARE customers enjoy fully documented ISO-certified manufacturer support, short reaction times and favourable terms on spare parts, all tailored to their individual needs and processes.

For further information, e-mail: spectro-uk.sales@ametek.com or view website: www.spectro.com

All that glisters is not gold! 

Two instruments from SPECTRO Analytical can add the certainty of chemical analysis to trading in precious metals. Escalating prices have created an active market in scrap gold, platinum and other jewellery metals, and the SPECTRO xSORT and SPECTRO MIDEX are X-ray fluorescence analysers that can perform instant alloy identification or a complete elemental analysis. The analysis is totally non-destructive, so no valuable metal has to be sacrificed, and no acids or toxic chemicals are involved.

The SPECTRO xSORT is a fully portable testing laboratory capable of identifying and analysing precious metals in a matter of seconds. Battery powered, and with a weight of only 1.7 kg, the xSORT is a small, hand-held instrument that is simply pointed at the sample and takes the measurement in a few seconds at the press of a trigger. Alternatively it can be mounted in a "docking station" to convert it into a convenient bench-top unit.

The SPECTRO MIDEX has become a standard tool in the laboratories of many precious metal refiners and major traders. The MIDEX was designed specifically for the task of accurately analysing small objects such as jewellery. Samples are placed on an optional motorized, computer controlled sample table and irradiated with an X-ray beam that can be collimated down to a spot size as small as 0.25mm. This gives the instrument the ability to "scan" the sample so that, for example, individual components of a composite jewellery item can be analysed. Alternatively, measurements can be taken automatically of a large number of "pin" samples.

For further information, e-mail: spectro-uk.sales@ametek.com or view website: www.spectro.com

Analytical Technology secures new
framework agreement with Thames Water

Specialist electrochemical sensor manufacturer Analytical Technology Inc. today announces that it has been awarded the framework agreement to supply and install triple validated chlorine monitoring systems to Thames Water. The new chlorine monitoring systems will replace Thames' existing instrumentation, improving process control and enabling considerable operational and maintenance savings in line with current company strategy. The new framework agreement reinforces Analytical Technology's position as a leading provider of water monitoring instrumentation to many of the UK's largest utility companies.

Following a lengthy and detailed decision-making process, Analytical Technology was awarded the framework agreement by Thames Water in February 2011, beating off competition from six of the world's leading providers. The company scored significantly higher than its competitors in all three characteristics on which the award was based, achieving scores 20% higher than all other companies in areas including commercial, technical and term and conditions of trade (T&C). Thames Water currently has the UK's largest installed base of chlorine monitors and is investing in the new technology during AMP 5, the asset management plan period between 2010 and 2015. Due to the large size of the order, the new framework agreement was jointly awarded to both Analytical Technology and Siemens. /Continued on the next page.