Rigaku Analytical Devices recently announced a new, handheld laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) analyzer. The Rigaku KT-500 features HiRES Technology, with the first miniaturized, high-resolution echelle spectrometer.

It represents the next advancement in LIBS technology, bringing users the ability to identify elements that were difficult to see with the previous generation of handheld LIBS analyzers, like carbon. This gives the user the ability to analyze ferrous and non-ferrous alloys on one device.

The handheld 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.

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 them in hand.

“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.”

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