In modern industries, quick and accurate identification of metal composition is a key factor in ensuring quality, reducing costs, and minimizing production risks. Metal analyzers using X-ray fluorescence (XRF) technology have become indispensable tools in material inspection, scrap sorting, alloy verification, jewelry testing, and many other sectors. Let’s explore what a metal analyzer is and discover the outstanding applications of the Niton™ XL5 Plus with PMAC in the article below.
I. What is a Metal Analyzer?
A metal analyzer is a scientific instrument that uses technologies such as X-ray fluorescence (XRF) or optical emission spectroscopy (OES) to determine the composition and proportion of elements in metallic or alloy samples quickly and non-destructively.
This device plays a vital role across various industries — including manufacturing, recycling, and quality control — helping improve efficiency and ensure material accuracy and consistency.
II. Niton™ XL5 Plus Handheld Metal Analyzer – Compact, Versatile, and Precise
1. Fast and Accurate Analysis
The Niton™ XL5 Plus, developed by Thermo Scientific – the world’s leading technology brand from the USA – is equipped with cutting-edge XRF (X-ray fluorescence) technology. It enables rapid and accurate metal composition analysis within just a few seconds. The upgraded graphene window ensures optimal sensitivity, even for light elements. From quality control monitoring to on-site analysis, the XL5 Plus delivers consistent, reliable results, empowering users to make timely and accurate decisions, reduce risks, and enhance productivity.
Figure 1: Niton XL5 Plus Handheld Metal Analyzer
2. Technical Specifications of the Niton™ XL5 Plus Handheld Metal Analyzer
| Category | Specification |
| Technology | XRF – Non-destructive X-ray fluorescence |
| Elemental Range | From Mg (Magnesium) to U (Uranium) |
| Detector Type | High-speed, high-resolution SDD with large-area silicon sensor (1μm graphene window). Includes ProGuard detector protection. |
| X-ray Tube | 5W, 50kV high-performance X-ray tube |
| Filter System | 6-position automatic filter changer |
| Power Consumption | 12V lithium-ion battery or 12V DC power supply, 3A, 3.6W. Hot-swap function allows uninterrupted operation during battery replacement. |
| Connectivity | USB, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth |
| Display | 4.3-inch touchscreen, sunlight-readable |
| Weight | ~1.3 kg (including battery) |
| Power Source | Rechargeable Li-ion battery or direct power adapter |
| Operating System | Embedded Linux |
| Housing | Dustproof, shock-resistant, IP54 certified |
| Analysis Time | 1–3 seconds for preliminary results |
| Measurement Modes | Fixed-point and handheld operation |
| Main Applications | Alloy, mineral, scrap, and product inspection |
| Software Support | Niton Connect™ – Synchronization, reporting, and data storage |
3. Small Size – Great Power
The Niton™ XL5 Plus handheld metal analyzer features an ultra-compact design weighing only around 1.3 kg (including battery). As one of the most advanced handheld XRF analyzers in its class, it combines mobility with exceptional performance. Its one-handed operation and 3-second rapid analysis time significantly reduce inspection time while maintaining high precision.
With flexible applications in alloy analysis, scrap testing, mineral exploration, and industrial manufacturing, the XL5 Plus ensures on-site usability thanks to its intuitive touchscreen interface and ergonomic control layout.
Its robust, durable design withstands harsh environments, making it an ideal tool for field material inspection professionals.
4. Ergonomic Design for Maximum Comfort
Tight spaces are no challenge for the Niton™ XL5 Plus.
In addition to its analytical power, the device is engineered for ergonomic comfort and precision. The handle design fits comfortably in different hand sizes, allowing users to work accurately and efficiently over long periods. Thanks to its slim probe head and lightweight construction, the XL5 Plus can easily access welds, corners, or narrow joints without requiring disassembly or awkward positioning. This makes it a perfect on-site analytical solution, where accuracy and accessibility are mission-critical.
Figure 2: Niton™ XL5 Plus featuring a slim and flexible measurement head
III. Benefits of the Niton™ XL5 Plus Handheld Metal Analyzer
1. Analyze Alloys, Precious Metals, Coatings, and Heavy Metals
Using advanced XRF analysis technology, the XL5 Plus quickly identifies elements from Mg to U in various materials without destroying the sample, delivering on-site results in seconds:
– Industrial Alloys: Steel, aluminum, copper, titanium,…
– Precious Metals: Gold (Au), silver (Ag), platinum (Pt),…
– Coatings & Plating: Measure thickness and composition of plated layers.
– Toxic Heavy Metals: Detect lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg) – essential for consumer product testing and export compliance.
2. Boost Productivity, Reduce Material Risks
Equipped with an Ag anode X-ray tube (6–50kV, 0–500μA, max 5W), six-position filter wheel, and adjustable current, the XL5 Plus performs instant elemental analysis without interrupting production. It helps eliminate material mismatches before they enter the production line, reducing quality risks and material waste.
3. Optimize Testing Costs – No Laboratory Required
Traditional laboratory testing often takes 1–3 days, increasing inspection and logistics costs while slowing production. With the Niton™ XL5 Plus handheld metal analyzer, you can perform accurate, real-time inspections on-site:
– Get results within 1–3 seconds
– No laboratory required
– Save up to 90% in long-term testing costs
IV. Applications of Niton™ XL5 Plus in Various Industries
– Scrap Industry: Instantly identify stainless steel, aluminum, copper, nickel, titanium, and more without sample preparation — optimizing profit margins and improving reliability in transactions.
– Jewelry Industry: Quickly verify gold authenticity and determine gold, silver, platinum (Pt), and palladium (Pd) content without cutting or damaging jewelry. The analyzer also supports data storage and report export for verification and sales documentation.
– Metallurgy & Mechanical Engineering: Inspect raw materials, semi-finished, and finished products to ensure technical compliance, reduce errors, and improve production efficiency.
– Mining Industry: Conduct rapid on-site mineral analysis to determine concentrations of valuable or heavy elements, supporting exploration and extraction operations effectively.
V. Where to Buy Genuine Niton™ XL5 Plus Handheld Metal Analyzers
PMAC JSC is the official distributor of Thermo Scientific’s XRF analyzer series in Vietnam, including the premium handheld Niton™ XL5 Plus – the perfect solution for rapid, reliable elemental analysis in industrial applications.
Figure 3: PMAC is the official distributor of Thermo Scientific XRF analyzers in Vietnam
With extensive field experience and a team of expert engineers, PMAC guarantees 100% genuine products, full warranty, and dedicated technical support to deliver the most suitable and cost-effective solutions for every client.
Conclusion
The Niton™ XL5 Plus is a state-of-the-art handheld metal analyzer integrating advanced XRF technology, offering fast, accurate, and versatile performance across multiple industries such as scrap recycling, jewelry, metallurgy, and mining. With its compact design, durability, and user-friendly interface, the XL5 Plus empowers businesses to inspect materials on-site, minimize material errors, optimize production workflows, and reduce long-term testing costs. It is the ideal choice for any organization seeking a reliable, genuine, and easy-to-use analytical instrument that delivers laboratory-grade precision in the field.
Contact PMAC for detailed consultation and hands-on demonstration of the Niton™ XL5 Plus handheld XRF analyzer!
PMAC Joint Stock Company
HCM: High-Tech Center, 4th Floor, HUTECH Building, D1 Street, High-Tech Park, Tang Nhon Phu Ward, Ho Chi Minh City
HN: 22B Ơ2 Linh Dam Peninsula, Hoang Liet Ward, Hanoi City
(+84) 938 085 278
Learn more:
https://pmac.asia/en/xrf-analyzer/
https://pmac.asia/en/choosing-an-xrf-machine/
https://pmac.asia/en/thermo-fisher-scientific-xrf-product-line-for-the-recycling-industry/
https://pmac.asia/en/thermo-scientific-niton-xl2-plus-handheld-xrf-analyzer/
https://pmac.asia/en/thermo-fisher-scientific-niton-xl2-100g-handheld-metal-analyzer/
https://pmac.asia/en/thermo-scientific-niton-xl3t-goldd-handheld-metal-analyzer/
https://pmac.asia/en/thermo-fisher-scientific-niton-xl2-100g-metal-analyzer/
