Beryllium copper is used in a wide variety of applications, from aerospace to industrial manufacturing. It has many desirable characteristics that make it an ideal material choice. But, due to its composition and properties, beryllium copper can be difficult to identify from other alloys and metals.

This is why it is important to use a reliable method of analysis, such as LIBS (Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy). As LIBS can analyze a sample without the need for physical contact, it has become the preferred method of quality control and sorting when dealing with beryllium copper. Compared to other methods of analysis, such as X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF), LIBS has far greater accuracy in the identification of beryllium copper.

Having said that, it is important to understand why XRF may not be suitable for beryllium copper identification and why LIBS can offer such great results.

mPulse-shavings-sample_jpg

Identifying Beryllium Copper Using LIBS

Using LIBS to identify beryllium copper is relatively simple.

First, the sample must be prepared for analysis by ensuring that it is clean and free from any contaminants. This can be done simply by wiping the sample with a lint-free cloth or compressed air to remove dust particles and other debris.

After preparation, the sample is placed into a sample chamber and the LIBS instrument is operated. The instrument will then analyze the emission spectra from the plasma generated by the laser pulse and compare it to a database of known material signatures. This is then used to correctly identify the sample as being beryllium copper.

This is possible due to the unique signature of beryllium copper, which is not present in other alloys and metals. In one second, LIBS can accurately identify beryllium copper from any other material without the need for direct contact.

Why Doesn’t XRF Identify Beryllium Copper?

X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) is a common technique used for the analysis of alloys and metals. It is based on the principles of fluorescence, whereby incident X-rays are used to excite atoms in a sample. This causes them to produce energy in the form of secondary X-rays, which can then be detected and analyzed to determine the composition of the sample.

However, while XRF is a reliable method of analysis, it may not be suitable for the identification of beryllium copper. This is because beryllium copper has a low atomic number and is, therefore, difficult to detect using XRF. As such, the technique may not provide accurate results when it comes to identifying beryllium copper.

Light elements, such as beryllium, aluminum, silicon, magnesium, and titanium, are more likely to be missed using XRF. This is why LIBS is the preferred method of analysis when dealing with such materials.

LIBS is a technique used for the analysis of a wide range of materials. It is based on the emission spectra produced by a sample when hit with a pulsed laser beam.

The energy of the laser pulse is absorbed by the sample, which causes it to vaporize and form a plasma plume. This plasma then emits light that can be analyzed by a spectrometer to provide data on the composition of the sample. This makes LIBS a non-destructive, contactless method of analysis that can be used in a variety of industries.

While it is a relatively new technique, it has been proven to provide high accuracy in the identification of various materials. At any rate, this makes it the perfect choice for sorting beryllium copper.

The release of oxford instruments mpulse LIBS analyzer can be used to identify BeCu commonly found as CS17200, CS17300, or Alloy 25. It is used in a variety of applications requiring wear resistance and in hazardous environments where a spark could be disastrous.

Why is the LIBS Different?

LIBS offers some advantages over XRF, making it the preferred method for many users. Firstly, it offers a fast and accurate analysis of samples, with a single pulse providing results in as little as one second. This makes it perfect for sorting and identifying materials in a wide range of industries.

Secondly, the technique is non-destructive and contactless, meaning it can be used to quickly analyze samples without causing any damage. Finally, LIBS can accurately identify low atomic number elements that are difficult to detect using XRF, such as beryllium. Due to these advantages, LIBS is the go-to technique for many industries that require precise and accurate sorting of material.

Even with the recent advancements in XRF technology, LIBS remains the most reliable and efficient method for sorting beryllium copper. Needless to say, the use of LIBS is becoming increasingly prominent in a variety of industries due to its time-saving benefits and high accuracy.

Do You Need a LIBS Analyzer?

The answer to this question ultimately depends on the user’s specific needs.

If an accurate and fast method of sorting metals and alloys is required, then a LIBS analyzer may be the best option. It offers speed and accuracy that XRF cannot match and can accurately identify elements such as beryllium copper without any sample preparation or contact.

In addition, it is non-destructive, meaning it can be used to preserve material for further analysis. This makes LIBS a cost-effective solution for many industries as it can quickly identify materials while saving time and money. Therefore, if accuracy and speed are a priority, then LIBS should be considered as an option.

It may also be worth investing in a LIBS analyzer if there is a need to regularly identify beryllium copper or other low atomic materials. For these reasons, LIBS has become an important tool for a variety of industries, providing both precision and convenience.

Overall, LIBS is an effective technique for the sorting and identification of beryllium copper and other materials. Handheld XRF excels at exciting heavier elements such as Chrome, Nickel, or Molybdenum (Moly) but that same approach for excitation doesn’t work as well for light elements. Therefore, if the user needs a fast and accurate method of sorting elements such as beryllium copper, then LIBS is the best option.

OES MAINTENANCE & CALIBRATION:
WHY IS IT IMPORTANT AND HOW WILL IT SAVE YOU MONEY

Periodic maintenance (PM) and calibration are essential tasks that you need to do on a regular basis to ensure that your equipment continues to function as intended.

Learn How Periodical Maintenance & Calibration Will Save You Money