It is 50 years since Panalytical started manufacturing two of the 20th century's most significant analytical X-ray tools - the PW1050 goniometer and the PW1520 spectrometry module
The PW1050 goniometer was at the core of the X-ray diffractometer which rapidly became the industry standard.
In addition, the PW1520 spectrometry module in combination with the PW1050 formed the nucleus of the world's first commercially available X-ray fluorescence spectrometer.
These developments transformed knowledge of X-ray analysis into tangible and comprehensive solutions for XRD and XRF and, for Panalytical, heralded the start of a spirit of innovation and dedication to its customers that continues today.
The history of Panalytical and its involvement in X-ray analysis goes back considerably further than 50 years - the company, formerly Philips Analytical, emerged from Philips's activities in the development, manufacturing and marketing of X-ray tubes and equipment.
In 1948, it was North American Philips (Norelco) that was responsible for the very first commercially available X-ray diffractometer.
However, the quantum leap in performance came by combining the newly developed tube technology with the goniometer's vastly extended scan range in an integrated system.
The safer operation that this system allowed and the higher quality data it produced, paved the way for X-ray diffraction to become a standard analytical tool. Many X-ray analysts performed their first diffraction experiments using the PW1050.
Very soon after the introduction of the PW1050 goniometer, the system was developed further to include a modular spectrometry option - the PW1520 - which allowed elemental analysis using X-ray fluorescence spectrometry.
This instrument was able to make measurements in air of all naturally occurring elements, from uranium down to chlorine.
Emphasising the company's unwavering commitment to its customers, Guido Eggermont, Panalytical's commercial director, said: "The PW1050 became the centerpiece for a wealth of innovations and rapid developments, establishing Panalytical's leadership in the field of X-ray materials research.
"We are very proud of this history and of the innovative spirit within our company that is its legacy. "Moreover, we embrace the responsibility that comes with it. "We are fully committed to continuing our innovation and leadership in X-ray analysis; continuing to enhance further the performance and reliability of our systems; continuing to find new and better solutions to today's analytical problems; and to identifying tomorrow's questions and providing the answers.
"Our mission is to help our customers to increase productivity.
"We will always work in close co-operation with them to provide ever improving products and high levels of service".
