When clients reach the point of melting down scrap, they will sometimes request consultation on the best methods of precious metal assay.  The experiences staff of Quickshot XRF can assist with a discussion on various approaches to maximize the accuracy of x-ray fluorescence.  One of these methods involves creating pin-dip samples for instant assay; which is a practice used by precious metal refiners as well as gold buyers that melt down scrap.

Instant assay of precious metals and karat alloys uses the XRF technique that requires the samples be very homogenous (uniform throughout) in order to achieve the highest accuracy.  Homogenous is an absolute requirement.  If molten metals are allowed to cool down slowly they usually segregate, or separate, into non-homogenous materials – the outer surface often being richer in gold if it is a karat or scrap.  This affects the accuracy significantly since all XRF analyzers measure only 10-25um into the surface of a sample.  Molten liquid metal is very homogenous if stirred and mixed.  When the molten metal is quickly quenched, or cooled, the uniform distribution of the elements in the liquid metal state is “captured” better and retained in the resulting solid form.  Use of hollow vacuum-evacuated glass tubes, called “pin dip tubes”, facilitates taking proper samples for the instant assay.

A full overview of pin-dip procedures for instant assay is available -
Contact Quickshot XRF staff to request a copy or discuss xray fluorescence for precious metal assay.

The first quarter of 2012 has been the most successful one in the history of QSX Instruments. 
What do you credit that to?
It is the type of quarter we expect at this point.  We offer a great product and our after the sales service/support is second to none, eventually word gets around.  Plus, the cost for a good performing XRF has always been too expensive for most of the smaller companies but our line seems to meet that need.

The Quickshot XRF line has focused on precious metal identification solutions – but what other applications are you most excited about the lines abilities in?
RoHS testing applications.  Offering both handheld and desktop systems for this interest lets us speak to the benefits that each model provides and suggest the best fit for a potential end-user.  When looking at the desktop system, the low cost Si-PIN system provides excellent results for RoHS screening needs while the SDD version reduces the measurement time by about 3/4 less but with top accuracy.

Looking at gold testing solutions; the line includes a handheld system but desktop models are the first suggestion.  Why is that?
The handheld systems work well for what they were designed for, portability and field use.  We find that many gold buyers use the ‘x-ray guns’ positioned so that the beam is pointed upward and they place parts on the nose of the gun.  This method works fine, but radiation may be emitted unless they have a part that is flat, thick enough and totally covers the aperature of the unit.  We sell bench top models for about the same cost and they emit zero radiation because the part is placed inside a chamber and the analyzer will not operate unless the door is closed.  Additional benefits of the desktop models are the streamlined software with excellent report generation, and the potential cost of ownership advantage that comes from a system operating at 1/10 its max power compared to a handheld that must run at max power to obtain similar results.  Gold buyers need to consider the long term benefits of the investment and I have asked our sales staff to provide information for them to consider.

What is your favorite Quickshot XRF analyzer?  Why? 
The newest analyzers; the QSX-295Tplus and QSX-82D.  These instruments are well thought out designs with specific goals in mind.  The speed and accuracy offered should make it hard to choose any other products.

What changes stand out from your twenty(plus) years involved in XRF?
Well, all the obvious answers apply here…greater range of applications, faster measurement speeds, the introduction of field portable systems (handheld XRF) and software design.  I am most proud of the Quickshot XRF software packages which our clients consistently note as being streamlined and simple to navigate.

How do you see the remainder of 2012 for Quickshot XRF?
We look forward to continuing the upward trend that we are on; thanks in large part to our satisfied clients telling their peers about the solutions we offer.  However, we are also excited to broaden our application reach with the handheld system and some potential new releases. 
Stay tuned; we are excited and we believe people interested in XRF will be as well.

In the February issue of ‘Printed Circuits Design’ Magazine, an article discusses the technical documentation and process control aspects that must be considered.  The article, written by Scott Mazur, highlights XRF Technology for an organizations internal process control and as an RoHS2 monitoring device.  He notes, “During electronics manufacturing, many variables and cross-contamination opportunities exist.  XRF technology can verify that the various processes, equipment, tools and materials are compliant.”

It is a beneficial read for organizations considering their approach to RoHS2 monitoring and control. 
Read the complete article from Printed Circuit Design Magazine.

He highlights the portability benefit of Handheld XRF, which will allow for on site vendor audits.  The following manufacturing areas being potential XRF testing points:
-  Surface Mount Technology
-  Wave Solder
-  Hand Soldering
-  Final Assembly

While the author does highlight Handheld XRF for its portability, we always suggest that organizations dealing with smaller components and looking for streamlined functionality consider the QSX-82D desktop model from Quickshot XRF.  Please contact a QSX Instruments associate to discuss your process control requirements and how the technology may best fit…and read that article.

Benefits of the 2012 software package include:

Windows 7 Operating System: one of the first XRF analyzers for gold testing to operate on a W7 platform

Single Button Measurement: with one button to press and accurate results in 10 to 30 seconds, these instruments provide the easiest user interface possible

Manual Karat-Match Function: provides a layer of protection against ‘bad buys’ (ie plated gold pieces)

View a video demonstration of the newest XRF Analyzer software

These new benefits enhance the experience for gold buyers that choose Quickshot XRF systems for their quality, performance and value.  All the bench-top systems continue to include a clean interface from the computer to the chamber…meaning no additional cards or software while using a simple USB connection; which is beneficial should any computer issues arise.  The software also allows for a customizable library of precious metal spectrums (great for buyers of dental scrap and coins), a color camera interface and excellent report generation capabilities.

Contact a Quickshot XRF Sales Associate to learn more about the new software, coordinate a web-cam demonstration or to discuss the benefits that XRF technology can offer your gold buying business.

In 2011, QSX Instruments Inc continued to provide solutions for two primary application interests (Gold and RoHS).  We released two new analyzers and our technical staff continued to make support/education a priority.

Gold Testing Continued: Quickshot XRF continued our focus on providing economical solutions to organizations that require accurate vertification of gold and other precious metals.  In doing so, we began offering a new system, the QSX-79Tplus) that combines a low-cost chamber design with higher performing components and offers the best value in gold testing equipment.  This new system and our QSX-295T proved to be the most popular systems in our line as gold prices continued to climb along with the demand for accurate verification of the metal.

New RoHS Test Equipment: We were pleased to introduce the QSX-82D desktop analyzer for in-house RoHS Testing.  Revised RoHS regulations have affected more organizations than before so the QSX-82D and our Handheld XRF (QSX-HH) proved to be of great interest to many organizations.  These two systems contributed to one of the most popular blog posts of the year; one that compared the benefits that each XRF style provides for RoHS testing.

Looking towards 2012…Quickshot XRF will continue to offer solutions for precious metal analysis and hazardous substance detection but are looking forward to expanding the line and application reach.  Some systems will see expanded capabilities and benefits with the addition of new detection systems; specifically the QSX-295T and Handheld analyzer.  A few new instruments are planned to be unveiled as well.  Overall, 2012 should prove to be another year of growth for QSX Instruments as organizations see the benefits of our approach to providing economical, and effective, XRF solutions to testing needs.

We hope that you and your organization have continued success in 2012 – we look forward to any opportunity to help you solve a testing need through the wonderful world of x-ray fluorescence.

Have a great holiday season…

The full article can be read here: “He’s in the business of detecting lead in older homes”

One portion of the article that I would like to point out is when he notes a major benefit of Handheld XRF Analyzers (like the Quickshot XRF QSX-HH system)…he comments about his research into testing options and noted how taking paint chips to an outside laboratory for analysis was too slow for many customers.  The portable X-ray Fluorescence analyzer allows him to take the lab with him and provide almost instant results.

Are you a succcess story like this young man?  Are you considering a similar approach?  He used a new regulation to start up his business that relies on the accuracy of XRF technology.  Send us your story or contact Quickshot XRF if you are considering a similar business to learn more about our portable system.

Handheld XRF Fluorescence: Essentially, these systems are as safe as the operator using one is.  All Quickshot XRF handheld analyzers are tested before shipping to insure no radiation leakage (safety radiation survey, visual inspection).  However, if a user does not follow basic safety guidelines they can be putting themselves at risk.

The image to the left shows a different brand of Handheld XRF being used in a low-cost holding stand and you will notice the operator is actually holding the sample in place with their hand – this doesn’t fall under the category of good common sense.  Holding stands for these ‘x-ray guns’ are very beneficial and we offer a stand that holds the unit in place, has a large platform to place samples and a lid to protect operators from any radiation.  Additional common sense when using handheld systems include not placing a sample on your lap or holding in your hand while testing it.  Of course, pointing the ‘gun’ at co-workers should never be done either…basic stuff that needs to be noted.

More about the instrument stand can be reviewed in a past blog entry on “Holding Handheld XRF“.

Desktop X-ray Fluorescence: These closed chamber systems are subject to Federal regulations that must be met to insure operator safety – all desktop systems from QSX meet the requirements.  The technology itself is safe because of the x-ray tube design (glass tube held in a thick metal chamber that is filled with oil) and all components are enclosed in a thick steel chamber.  However, additional safety requirements include four main items:
-  Key Switch: turns hi-voltage power supply on/off, controlling when radiation can be produced
-  X-ray On Light: indicates to an operator when radiation is being produced
-  Instrument Power Lamp: illuminated when the chamber has power, no radiation can be produced without power
-  Safety Interlock: a sensor on the door that will cut power to the HV Power Supply when the door is open

QSX Instruments Inc puts customer service and operator safety at a high priority.  We work to educate users on the proper operation of the systems and provide overviews of how they can be safe when utilizing x-ray fluorescence technology.  While we provide information and support, clients need to use common sense during operation (especially with handheld systems) and should have a safety radiation survey performed annually to insure operators are not exposed to radiation.

Contact a representative of QSX Instruments if you have any questions about the safety features of Quickshot XRF analyzers or general safety approaches when utilizing the technology.

Gold buyers, jewelers and refiners have several brands/models of desktop gold testers to choose from.  However, Quickshot XRF is earning a reputation for providing an excellent value (top performance at an excellent price) along with other benefits over competitive desktop systems.

The top five benefits that QSX desktop x-ray fluorescence analyzer provide over others includes:

New Software (2011) Features Windows 7 OS:
simple navigation and report functions with karat identified in 10 seconds and full content percentages in 30 to 60 seconds (as opposed to other machines that require 100 seconds to meet the Quickshot XRF accuracy)

No Calibration Service Required:
calibrations on Quickshot XRF systems will typically last over one year and you can calibrate yourself when needed.  Other companies offer systems that require calibration every 3-4 months with on-site services at $500 to $600.  The Quickshot XRF approach could save you $1,800 to $2,400 per year!

Camera System Comes Standard:
a feature that others charge for is included on all QSX desktop systems – the automatic sample photo is a nice addition to reports and helps with sample alignment, especially with smaller sample areas.

Powerful X-ray Tube:
the 50 kV tube is oil and air cooled; this more powerful component runs at a lower current than many competitive analyzers so the Quickshot XRF tube will last longer and be more stable

Top Solid State Detection System:
QSX uses Amptek detectors which has a lower resolution (approx 170ev).  This means a Quickshot XRF analyzer is a more stable machine to provide consistent results and better accuracy

Schedule a time to discuss these benefits and how they apply to your testing needs.

The blog includes tips like ‘making certifications a requirement’, ‘working with distributors that are aligned with industry organizations’ and ‘identifying distributors that have systems in place to screen for counterfeit parts’ among others.

Part of in-house screening may include x-ray fluorescence (XRF) technology; like the QSX-82D from Quickshot XRF.  In these situations, XRF Spectrometers are used to detect poor quality or counterfeit components by measuring the elemental composition of materials present in the parts and then comparing them with an authentic part.  While counterfeit parts may pass electronic functionality tests, critical elements may be missing or replaced with lower cost elements that can compromise the parts performance in various situations.

With an appropriate x-ray fluorescence analyzer, distributors can verify components for RoHS and material composition; providing assurance to their clients that they are providing complient electronic components.  Review that blog and contact Quickshot XRF if you have a need for in-house screening solutions.

When the interest in x-ray fluorescence was growing, many sales organizations suggested proportional counter detection systems (aka ‘prop count’) to meet gold buy-back interests.  They promised accuracy across a range of precious metals…but that is simply not what a ‘prop-count’ system can offer.

At QSX Instruments Inc, we have been able to help gold buyers that purchased ‘prop count’ systems to upgrade their technology and obtain the accuracy, ease-of-use and range of metals that make XRF Technology a true benefit to their operations.  One current client offered the following statement on his upgrade to an Si-PIN Detection System (the QSX-295T Precious Metal Analyzer):

“Even though the price was right, the low-cost proportional counter system that we were using was not giving me the return that I thought it would because the technology is limited to yellow gold.  The upgrade to a QSX-295T with the better detection system (Si-PIN) has allowed me to see much better accuracy on gold plus the additional precious metals I need to know about (silver, etc) to get the best return on my investment in XRF.  The Quickshot XRF staff made the upgrade process simple and the investment to upgrade has been well worth it.”

Rick P.
Owner / Buyer
Michigan Gold Buyer Organization

You can request literature to learn more about the difference in performance that detection systems can offer (request 79T v 295T comparison) or contact a QSX Instruments technical advisor to discuss your current buy-back operation and, possibly, XRF Analyzer.