Handheld EDXRF Spectrometer enables high-throughput analysis.

Press Release Summary:




SPECTRO xSORT energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) spectrometer enables in-field elemental testing and spectro-chemical analysis of metals and other materials. Available with integrated video camera and GPS, instrument provides grade identification and material verification for metals and most alloys within 2 sec of clicking trigger; light-metal alloys require 12 sec to process. Other features include grade libraries, SDD detector, and detection limits down to ppm range.



Original Press Release:



Spectro Launches Next-Generation SPECTRO xSORT



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

KLEVE, GERMANY-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 spectro-chemical 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 exclusive 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 and its exclusive high-resolution SDD detector provides signal throughput up to 10 times faster than other handheld spectrometers. 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 incorporates an exclusive SPECTRO ICAL system for convenient one-sample, one-time calibration. Its simplified software features an intuitive touchscreen interface with two menu levels.

The SPECTRO xSORT spectrometer is available for shipment from SPECTRO dealers around the world. For more information, visit http://www.spectro.com/xsort.

About SPECTRO:
SPECTRO is a leading global supplier of analytical instruments for optical emission and X-ray fluorescence spectrometry and a unit of the AMETEK Materials Analysis Division. 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 founding 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 electromechanical devices with annualized sales of approximately 3.0 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.

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