Choosing the best tools for the job

Among the variety of instrument types for analyzing metal, the two that stand out are based on optical emission (OE) and x-ray fluorescence (XRF). Instruments based on these two techniques are made to cover a wide range of applications from positive material identification (PMI) to full laboratory systems with sizes from hand-held to large free-standing units. OE strengths include better light-element performance with elements such as carbon, sulphur, phosphorus and nitrogen, and generally better detection limits. XRF strengths include better precision at higher levels and the ability to analyze other materials such as slags. Anynone looking to buy for the first time, should initially define in detail what really needs to be done, what is to be accomplished, and what the competitors have done. This will indicate which technique is most appropriate for the application.