Thermo Scientific Niton Apollo handheld LIBS analyser

For petrochemical plants, fabricators, scrap recyclers and quality control departments seeking to measure low concentrations of carbon in metal, a handheld analyser from Thermo Fisher Scientific features laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) for speed, precision and mobility.

The lightweight Thermo Scientific Niton Apollo handheld LIBS analyser enables user to quickly and more precisely test metals for carbon content in the field, where prior technologies were too cumbersome. Results can be returned in as few as 10 s. The portability of the analyser is especially valuable for operators at complex jobsites who have historically manoeuvred large equipment into small or difficult spaces to perform analysis.

In addition to quantifying carbon concentrations in low alloys and L+H grade steels, the product also measures Al, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Mo, Ni, Si, Ti, V, W, carbon equivalency (CE) and pseudo elements. Additional features include: wireless data transfer, remote operation and software updates enabled by NitonConnect; two hot-swappable Milwaukee batteries with a battery life of 3–4 h each; a tilting, colour touch screen to empower viewing from multiple angles; and a vivid, easy-to-use application interface.

Third party-validated interlocks are designed to keep users and bystanders safe from laser exposure, while a tapered nose helps attain more field coverage of awkward corners, joints and tight welds. An IP54 rating safeguards against environments containing splashes or dust, and micro and macro cameras support sample positioning and record-keeping documentation.