Oxford Instruments analyser ‘good for light metals’

Oxford Instruments has announced a new handheld analyser which it states is ideal for detecting light metals.

According to the firm, traditional methods may mark the surface of metals, rendering them useless for applications which require a high-quality finish.

But the new X-MET3000TXV+ is said to utilise x-ray fluorescence to detect levels of silicon and magnesium in aluminium panels without leaving a blemish.

Meanwhile, Oxford Instruments states that light metals have previously been difficult to detect.

"Magnesium, aluminium and silicon produce low energy x-rays that are impeded by air," the manufacturer explains.

Oxford Instruments adds: "The portable vacuum pump of the X-MET3000TXV+ evacuates the analysis path of air, making the measurement of these elements possible."

The producer suggests that the device may be useful for aircraft manufacturers in determining the composition of titanium alloys used in fuselage panels.

Recyclers are also told that the product will help them to detect high-value alloys more quickly when sorting through materials for reprocessing.