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Metals represent a broad group of applications
that are generally ideal for XRF. Almost all elements in
every step of the process from ores to finished alloys can
be excited and measured by XRF. Scrap metals are usually
sorted by XRF as well, where the hand help instruments are
a practical choice.
Alloy Analysis and Scrap Sorting
All alloys of virtually any shape and size are suitable for
XRF analysis. Low cost hand held and benchtop instruments
can be used to measure the major elements, while higher
performance EDXRF instruments are best suited to measuring
the trace elements too. Here are a few types of alloys
that are commonly measured by EDXRF:
A. Iron
B. Steel - including low alloy and carbon Steel
C. Stainless Steel
D. Copper, brass, bronze, aluminum bronze, leaded brass and
bronze
E. Aluminum
F. Nickel alloys - hastelloy, waspaloy
G. Zinc alloys
H. Cobalt alloys
I. Titanium alloys
J. Solders - tin, lead, and silver
Precious Metals
Precious metals are also frequently analyzed by EDXRF. Gold
carat weight determination in jewelry, ingots, and scrap
is a common application. Other metals like platinum, and
silver can also be analyzed by EDXRF. Precious metal ores,
particularly gold ore have been measured by EDXRF.
Ores, Slags, Feeds, Concentrates,
and Tailings
XRF plays a roll at each step of the metal making process.
Major and minor components are analyzed with EDXRF instruments,
and can even be measured on-line in many cases.
Silicon Metal
Silicon is an important metal in the semiconductor industry,
and high purity is demanded. EDXRF is often used often
used to monitor high silicon sands for impurities, and
can be used throughout the refining process and through
wafer production. Specialized high performance EDXRF equipment
is designed for wafer analysis.
Metal Foil Thickness
There seems to be a use for foils made from every conceivable
elemental metal. The thickness of thin foils can be measured
by EDXRF, and this application can be done on line. |
