Rigaku Handheld LIBS Analyzer Provides High-Performance Metal Alloy Analysis

Rigaku KT-500 features HIRES technology for superior analysis of carbon steels and more

Published: Monday, June 7, 2021 - 12:00

(Rigaku Analytical Devices: Wilmington, MA) -- Rigaku Analytical Devices, a leading pioneer of handheld spectroscopic analyzers, has launched the KT-500—a new, handheld laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) analyzer.

The Rigaku KT-500 features carbon-capable, miniaturized, high-resolution echelle spectrometer (HIRES) technology. It represents the next advancement in LIBS technology with the ability to provide identification of elements, such as carbon, that were difficult to see with previous generation handheld LIBS analyzers. This capability gives the user the ability to analyze ferrous and nonferrous alloys on one device, making it the single tool of choice for quality assurance in metal fabrication and positive materials identification in mission-critical applications, such as those used in power generation, oil and gas, and aerospace.

The Rigaku KT-500 LIBS analyzer strengthens the capabilities of LIBS technology and provides the user with better analysis of low alloy steels, stainless steels, nickel and cobalt alloys, and now carbon steels. Because of this, the KT-500 is the solution for addressing all the most common alloy grades used in metal fabrication. Additionally, its carbon analysis, along with low detection limits for other key elements, makes it ideal for determining carbon equivalence as well as solving many of the key applications required in petrochemical facilities including sulfidation, corrosion, and residual elements.

Designed specifically for use in industrial applications, the following features put the KT-500 in a class of its own:
• Lightweight with aluminum housing
• IP54 rating for protection against dusty environments
• Hot swappable batteries
• Carbon analysis in steels including carbon, low alloy, and stainless steels
• High-performance analysis of stainless steels, nickel, and cobalt alloys without purge gas consumption
• Multiple access user interface, facilitating single-handed operation, includes (flip-up touchscreen, oversized keypad, side quick keys)
• Integrated micro-camera
• WiFi for easy data transfer and report generation
• Access and download data without using third-party software
• Optional front plate for analysis of welds
• Docking/charging station

Another major benefit to the user is that the KT series of handheld LIBS analyzers utilizes a laser excitation source. The KT-500 is safe for the user to analyze small components while holding in hand, and needs minimal to no regulatory licensing requirements.

“We recognized the need of the metals industry for a solution that provides fast, easy, and safe alloy analysis in a convenient platform,” says Jessica Feuer, product manager at Rigaku Analytical Devices. “Headaches from lugging OES machines around will be a thing of the past, as is needing another piece of equipment to analyze your other common alloy grades. Our award-winning, first generation handheld LIBS provided us with a good foundation to take this technology to the next level with the introduction of the KT-500.”

The Rigaku KT-500 will be available for demonstration and purchase initially in North America. Global distribution will be available later in the year.

For more information on the KT-500 visit www.rigakuanalytical.com.

About Rigaku Analytical Devices

Based in Wilmington, Massachusetts, since 2011, Rigaku Analytical Devices is a pioneer in handheld 1064 nm Raman and LIBS-based technology for materials analysis. With thousands of units in use globally, our portfolio offers the most versatile solution for use in safety and security against dangerous threats, verification in pharmaceutical manufacturing, and in the recycling and quality control of metal alloys.

We strive to deliver quality, reliability and engaged expertise to our customers. We are dedicated to continuous product development efforts to deliver mission-critical enhancement to performance and functionality, while delivering reliable and cost-effective solutions for results, anywhere.

Rigaku Analytical Devices is an ISO 9001:2015 certified facility.

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