Advanced handheld XRF technology
Premium performance begins with the most advanced handheld XRF technology available. The SciAps X-555 X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) analyzer is led by a 55 kV X-ray tube for extra-low detection limits on key elements like Ag, Cd, Sn, Sb, and Ba.
Up to three automated beam settings provide optimal performance across the entire periodic table from Mg to U. All in a rugged instrument with state-of-the-art software and outstanding thermal dissipation.
Industry-best limits of detection
Why a 55 kV X-ray tube? The X-ray energy needed to effectively excite emissions from the light REEs resides in the 40-48 keV range. Typical X-ray tubes in handheld units only operate up to 50 kV; therefore, only a tiny fraction of the X-ray energy is useful for excitation of the REEs.
By operating the X-ray tube up to 55 kV, about 10x more X-ray energy is available to produce emissions from the light REEs and the first two heavy REEs, gadolinium and europium. While it’s not possible to operate a handheld XRF at high enough voltages to usefully measure all heavy REEs, the X-555 provides highly sensitive yttrium analysis, which is a common pathfinder for the heavy REEs.
The X-555, with its exceptional shielding and 4 mm diameter beam collimation, may be used directly on rock surfaces and cores. It can also be equipped with an interlocked test stand for safe analysis of cupped or bagged samples.
Values for interference-free (SiO2) and highly challenging OREAS REE ores containing multiple interfering elements. LODs are for 3-sigma detection above background, 120-second test times.
| Element | LOD interference-free SiO2 sample | LOD for OREAS “real world” samples |
|---|---|---|
| La | 13 | 15 |
| Ce | 15 | 19 |
| Pr | 18 | 34 |
| Nd | 27 | 33 |
| Sm | 30 | 35 |
| Eu | 60 | 120* |
| Gd | 90 | 180* |
| *“Real world” LODs for Eu and Gd are estimates, not derived from OREAS samples | ||
In use globally: X-555 applications
SciAps XRF analyzers are the lightest ever made, weighing in at just under 3 lbs. with battery. The durable aerospace-grade aluminum frame passes the Oops Test and the falling-from-a-35-foot-tower test.
Redesigned housing with improved heat dissipation allows for high-throughput testing that our customers demand.
A narrow, slender form factor accesses the toughest test locations, with a 2.7″ display for rear viewing of grade and chemistry.
Best-in-class light element performance for ultra low detection limits of elements like Mg, Al, Si, P, and S, whilst also packing enough power to achieve impressive precision on heavy elements like pathfinders Ag, Sn, Sb, and rare earth elements.
The X-555 has appropriate filtering to optimize sensitivity - 2x better analysis of cadmium detection than any other XRF!
It packs the industry’s most powerful X-ray tube for superior limits of detection - especially for cadmium, silver, tin, antimony and barium.
When combined with the new Z-901 Beryllium, you also get 13 EPA Priority Pollutant Metals. Operators can upgrade the Z-901 Lithium to include lithium, boron, carbon, nitrogen, fluorine, and sodium in their tests, too.
Next-generation connectivity, test data management and reporting for the full range of compliance testing applications, including RoHS, Halogen Free, CPSIA, and lead paint in children’s playgrounds are core to the X-555.
State-of-the-art data management is incorporated into a flexible Android system, which allows for the greatest customization and data management capabilities.
Offering 55 kV operation, rather than the industry typical 50 kV, means the X-555 delivers higher performance for critical 'light' REEs, and some 'heavy' REEs, making it a superior option for REE analysis globally.
