Thermo Fisher Scientific has launched an integrated solution for the metals industry that combines wavelength dispersive X-ray fluorescence (WDXRF) with optical emission spectrometry (OES).
The solution optimises the Thermo Scientific ARL Optimx WDXRF slag analyser in combination with the ARL 3460 Advantage OES metals analyser.
This pairing for foundries and metal processing companies is said to offer effective analyses of metallurgic slags and alloys by WDXRF and quick and accurate investigation of solid metals by OES.
OES provides rapid analysis of carbon and low nitrogen along with all other alloying elements in irons and steel while XRF offers reliable and repeatable analysis of metallurgical slags and raw materials, including iron ores and sinters and cast irons.
In addition, XRF is said to assure high repeatability, which makes the technique effective for the control of major elements and expensive alloying elements.
The ARL Optimx spectrometer is described as a compact, cost-effective and reliable XRF solution for all non-metallic samples as well as major and minor elements in metals.
Thermo Fisher Scientific said that, as well as providing low cost of ownership with practically no peripheral support (neither internal/external water cooling nor compressed air) the ARL Optimx slag analyser allows quick sample preparation and fast analysis.
In addition to common oxides such as CaO, SiO2, MgO, Na2O, A12O3, S, K2O and Fe2O3, the instrument is capable of analysing fluorine in slags wherever needed.
Slags can be analysed both as directly cast slags and as pressed pellets after grinding and pelletisation.
Fusion beads can also be used to accuracy and control.
The ARL 3460 Advantage spectrometer is said to offer an ideal solution for foundries and metal producers and ensure trouble-free operation with minimal maintenance costs over the instrument's lifetime.
With optical configuration optimised to cover most of the analytical requirements in a foundry, users can benefit from high-quality technology to ensure improved metals analysis in terms of quality and productivity in addition to low operational costs.
The ARL Optimx and ARL 3460 Advantage are delivered with factory calibrations for immediate operation and use.
Both instruments are driven by Thermo Scientific Windows 7-based Oxsas analytical software, helping the user quickly learn and operate the two instruments.
Comprehensive training can be provided on both instruments after installation eliminating the need for two separate interventions.
They can also be fully automated with ARL SMS solutions for on-line unattended analysis when fast 24/7 throughput is required.
