XRF Measurement Systems Designed for Metal Finishers

SciMed, a leading supplier of scientific instrumentation, is the UK’s exclusive distributor of Bowman XRF plating thickness measurement systems. The Bowman XRF suite has 8 distinctive benchtop XRF systems, 4 of which were engineered exclusively for platers and finishers. The others were designed for testing wafers, chips, PCBs, lead frames and electronic components.

The most versatile analyzer in the suite is the Bowman L Series, an XRF for parts measuring up to 550mm x 600mm x 330mm.

Developed for users who require precise control of the thickness of plated deposits, the L Series prevents the quality issues that result from under-plating, and the cost consequences of over-plating.

The L Series XRF quickly and precisely determines the thickness of coatings within a broad range: from aluminum through uranium (13-92 on the periodic table.) The instrument measures up to five coating layers simultaneously, any or all of which can be alloys.

Key features of L Series units include Bowman’s proprietary micro spot focus x-ray tube, and silicon drift detector. The detector has significant performance advantages which include the highest resolution, lowest baseline noise, and highest photon count capability.

The standard L Series configuration includes a 4-position multiple collimator assembly; collimator sizes and focal distances can be tailored to the application. A micro-focus video camera, synchronized with the x-ray optics, pinpoints the target; recessed areas and unusual part geometries are easily accommodated.

The L Series has the largest part capacity of any available XRF plating measurement instrument. In addition to testing large parts, it is well suited for fixtured components, and applications involving multi-point measurement. Its X-Y stage travel distance is 254mm x 254mm.

SciMed also offers the Bowman G Series, an XRF system whose most distinctive features are precision video imaging, and ‘bottom-up’ measurement using a motorized Z-axis with laser-based auto-focus. The latter is a feature unique to Bowman. An optional manual XY stage facilitates easy positioning of parts. Its compact chamber is well suited for jewelry and other precious metal analysis applications, and components such as connectors and fasteners.

All Bowman XRF systems run advanced software to precisely quantify coating thickness from the detected photons. Introduced in early 2023, “Archer” software is a successor to Bowman’s Xralizer, a software that pioneered several important features, including a multi-method auto-focus, a workflow optimizer, and the ability to focus on highly reflective surfaces where laser or image sharpness methods are unworkable.

Archer’s all-new Graphical User Interface makes the software easy to learn and use, highly intuitive, and visually ergonomic. A tasking feature allows users to program custom steps for execution while the software is running – a huge time-saver. Pattern matching for datum points, highspeed Z axis adjustability and real-time measurement updating are other key features, along with the ability to view the calibration curve and recalibrate –both in analysis mode.

Archer generates customizable Excel reports with no MS Office required, and unlike competitor platforms, there is no need to install a software plug-in to export data to customer ERP systems. SciMed provides equipment evaluation, selection, commissioning, maintenance and modernization for all Bowman instruments, as well as other XRF brands.

From more information, or to arrange an equipment demo, email enquiries@scimed.co.uk or call 0161 442 9963.

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