Metal Coatings Analysis by EDXRF
Conversion Coatings Analysis, Plating Bath Monitoring & More
Quick Elemental Analysis of Metal Coatings to Plating Bath Analysis
Metalizing or applying metal coatings to the surface of objects is a technique used for various reasons, and monitoring metal coating thickness and composition is essential. Metal coatings are not purely aesthetic; they improve an object’s surface properties to protect it from corrosion, wear and tear, weathering, etc. When products need to be durable, weatherproof, corrosion-resistant, seismic-resistant, or UV-resistant — quality control and measuring the thickness of metal coatings is crucial.
Moreover, coating materials require precise thickness specifications to express the desired characteristics. Metals, either over- or under-coated, will not perform as expected, and over-coating wastes expensive coating material. EDXRF (energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence) provides rapid elemental analysis of the thickness and composition of single- or multi-element metal coatings applied by chemical or electrochemical processes.
Conversion coatings analysis by EDXRF allows users to measure plating thickness and monitor plating bath composition. Rigaku EDXRF benchtop solutions include the compact NEX QC Series for general metal plating analysis and plating bath composition and the NEX DE VS for metal coatings analysis on small parts. For real-time process control needs, the NEX LS metal coatings analyzer offers the in-line analysis of metal coatings, and the NEX OL offers on-line, multi-element analysis of plating solutions.
Application Notes
Metal Coatings Analysis by XRF — Use of EDXRF
XRF (X-ray fluorescence) technology was initially developed because the deep X-ray penetration depths enable measurements that are unachievable by other methods (e.g., eddy current testing). The application reach of X-ray-based non-destructive testing (NDT) continues to grow because the measurement of metal coatings and thin films continues to be an ideal and widespread use of EDXRF. Many facilities rely on EDXRF-based quality control technology for metal coatings analysis — including plating bath analysis for electroless and electroplating applications — from general plating shops to aerospace, marine, automotive, and military manufacturing.
At-line, In-line, & On-line Solutions for Metal Coating Analysis
- Single-layer coatings; one coating over a substrate (Zr, P, Zn, Ni, Cr, Cu, etc.)
- Binary alloy coatings
- Multilayer coatings; two or more layers over a substrate
- Composite coatings over a substrate
- Solution analysis of plating baths
Determine Metal Coating Thickness & Composition, Analysis of Plating Baths, & More
To achieve reliable quality control (QC) for metal coatings analysis, NEX QC Series benchtop EDXRF analyzers provide QC technicians with an ideal tool for quickly measuring plating thickness and monitoring plating bath composition. NEX QC Series instruments are specially designed for routine quality control applications and combine superior performance capabilities with affordability. The intuitive touchscreen interface and built-in printer make these analyzers easy to use and convenient and help users maintain consistent product quality while keeping inventory costs in balance and minimizing the chances of product rejection.
Variable Spot EDXRF for Metal Plating Analysis on Small Parts
For small spot analysis needs, the NEX DE VS benchtop EDXRF system offers measurement of metal coatings on smaller parts. NEX DE VS includes a high-resolution camera and automated collimators to precisely position samples to analyze 1 mm, 3 mm, and 10 mm spot sizes. These features, combined with the advanced QuantEZ® software, provide unparalleled performance. Whether the need is basic quality control (QC) or quality assurance (QA) — NEX DE VS is a reliable choice for the elemental analysis of metal coatings, plating thickness analysis on smaller pieces, or monitoring the elemental composition of plating baths.
EDXRF Metal Coatings Analyzer for In-line Analysis
For in-line process control of moving webs or coils, the NEX LS scanning metal coatings analyzer meets the needs of challenging conditions found in metal coating and converting processes. NEX LS helps maintain a consistent quality throughout the process with real-time metal coatings analysis. Users can continuously measure and monitor the cross-machine coating being applied to maintain consistent quality, improve efficiency, and reduce the cost associated with overcoating or product rejection.
On-line EDXRF Analysis of Plating Bath Solutions
To maintain optimum conditions for plating bath solutions, the NEX OL process analyzer offers on-line multi-element analysis of plating bath composition. Chemical baths require continuous monitoring to ensure the highest quality surface treatments. NEX OL provides high-throughput manufacturers with a real-time analysis system for quantifying the elemental composition of their plating baths, allowing for automated replenishing if desired.
Our Guarantee
Applied Rigaku Technologies offers a 2-year warranty on all EDXRF spectrometers it produces. This industry-leading manufacturer’s warranty shows our commitment to quality and displays our dedication to maximizing uptime for our customer’s processes and applications.
Specializing in at-line and in-line analytical solutions, Applied Rigaku Technologies’ robust designs use quality materials, and our employees take pride in their craft. If a warranty-related deficiency happens, we are quick to respond. Common warranty plans often do not extend past a year, making this coverage a testament to the overall excellence of Rigaku EDXRF products and services.
Metal Coatings Information & Resources
