SPECTRO’S Bestseller now more economical and more flexible

• Stationary metal analyzer with CCD technology now in its fifth generation
• New model with greatly reduced argon consumption, integrated diagnostic and improved small sample analysis

SPECTRO Analytical Instruments presents the newest generation of the SPECTROMAXx stationary metal analyzer at the CONTROL trade show (May 5 to May 8, 2009 in Stuttgart, Germany). The CCD-based analytical instrument was the most successful SPECTRO model over the last few years: Approximately 3,500 instruments have been sold since the beginning of 2005. The current generation of the top seller offers many improvements: The most important innovations are an argon saving module that clearly reduces the argon consumption and a new package of methods and adapters for small sample analysis.

"The SPECTROMAXx has established itself as the international standard for stationary metal analyzers," explains Tom Milner, head of marketing at SPECTRO. "But even such a top performer can be improved. The fifth generation is more economical, more flexible and more user-friendly than its predecessor. We've raised the bar a good bit higher."

New Argon Saving Module
Highlight of the current product generation is the new argon saving module that reduces the argon consumption when the instrument is not in use to zero; leading to substantial savings. Product Manager Kay Toedter explains how it works: "When the spark generator is turned off at the end of the day, the argon saver shuts the flush down to zero. The operator sets the time when the instrument is to be used the next morning. The system then automatically starts up the instrument so that the spark stand and the optical system are optimally supplied with argon; on time for the first measurement of the morning." When idle for a longer period of time, e.g., on the weekend or during works holidays, the instrument is also completely shut down; enabling a proportionally higher savings. The instrument can also be pre-programmed for this type of interruption over several days so that the optic is already flushed and ready to measure punctually when work begins.

Improved Analysis of Small Parts
Small sample analysis has also been improved for the SPECTROMAXx: Pre-defined method packages for small pieces of iron, aluminum and copper matrices in the form of screws, pins, wires and sheets are now available. The method packages cover all standard applications in small part analysis. At the same time, SPECTRO offers a new set of adapters for the new SPECTROMAXx, ensuring simple handling of small samples in the laboratory: With the special adapters, small parts and wires can be precisely and securely fixed over the measuring aperture. The adapters accelerate sample throughput in the laboratory and guarantee reliable and reproducible results for measurement series.

New Diagnosis System
Important from the maintenance standpoint: The new SPECTROMAXx possesses an integrated diagnosis system, which continuously informs operators and service technicians as to the state of the system and all of its main components. This makes it possible to more quickly rectify malfunctions and favorably complete service calls. The internal components of the SPECTROMAXx have been rearranged for optimal serviceability. It is no longer necessary to remove any blocking components in order to conduct common maintenance processes such as changing filters or replacing the filter cartridge. The UV lens can be externally cleaned and replaced.
In addition to the new arrangement of the hardware, the SPECTROMAXx now uses the "Spark Analyzer Vision Software" already proven in the larger SPECTROLAB systems.

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