Elite Instruments XU-100 X-Ray Fluorescence Coating Thickness Analyzer
| Brand | Elite Instruments |
|---|---|
| Origin | Jiangsu, China |
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Country of Origin | China |
| Model | XU-100 (High-Cost-Performance XRF Coating Thickness Analyzer) |
| Price Range | USD 22,000 – 28,000 |
Overview
The Elite Instruments XU-100 is a benchtop energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) coating thickness analyzer engineered for non-destructive, multi-layer elemental quantification and precise thickness measurement of metallic and alloy coatings on conductive and non-conductive substrates. Utilizing fundamental parameter (FP) algorithms calibrated against certified reference standards, the XU-100 determines coating mass per unit area (mg/cm²) and converts it to thickness (µm or nm) based on known density and atomic composition. Its optimized X-ray excitation geometry—featuring a 50 kV, 1 mA micro-focus Rh anode tube and high-resolution silicon drift detector (SDD)—ensures high peak-to-background ratio and low detection limits (typically <100 ppm for heavy elements, <500 ppm for light elements such as Al, Si, P). Designed for routine QC in electroplating lines, fastener manufacturing, automotive component finishing, and electronics assembly, the XU-100 delivers traceable, repeatable results compliant with ISO 3497, ASTM B568, and DIN 50981.
Key Features
- Non-contact, non-destructive analysis requiring no sample preparation—ideal for high-throughput production environments.
- Simultaneous quantification of up to five layers (e.g., Au/Ni/Cu/Fe or Cr/Ni/Cu/ABS), including intermetallic phases and alloyed coatings (ZnNi, ZnAl, SnBi).
- Motorized XYZ stage with programmable positioning and automatic focus adjustment for consistent spot-to-spot reproducibility (RSD < 2.5% for 10 µm Zn/Fe at 100 s count time).
- Integrated helium purge path for enhanced sensitivity to light elements (Na–Cl), enabling accurate measurement of NiP on aluminum heat sinks and Sn on Cu leads.
- Rugged industrial enclosure rated IP20, CE-compliant, and equipped with interlocked safety shutter meeting IEC 61010-1 requirements for X-ray equipment.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The XU-100 accommodates flat, curved, or irregularly shaped samples up to Ø100 mm × 40 mm height, including threaded fasteners, PCB edge connectors, stamped automotive brackets, and jewelry components. It supports common plating systems across global supply chains: Zn/Fe (electrogalvanized), ZnNi/Fe (12–15 wt% Ni), ZnAl/Fe (5–11 wt% Al), Sn/Cu, Ni/Cu/Fe, Au/Ni/Cu (ENIG), Ag/Cu, Cr/Ni/Cu/ABS (decorative plastic plating), and precious metal stacks (e.g., 18K Au/Pd/Cu, Rh/Pd/Cu). All measurement protocols are fully traceable to NIST-traceable calibration standards and support audit-ready documentation required under ISO/IEC 17025, IATF 16949, and GLP environments. Optional report templates comply with ASME BPE and FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when paired with Elite’s validated software package.
Software & Data Management
The proprietary EliteScan v4.2 software provides intuitive workflow-driven operation—from method setup and calibration curve generation to real-time spectral visualization and batch reporting. Each measurement stores full spectral metadata (tube voltage/current, live time, detector temperature, collimator size), enabling retrospective reprocessing using updated FP libraries. Audit trail functionality logs all user actions, parameter changes, and calibration events with timestamps and operator IDs. Data export supports CSV, XML, and PDF formats; integration with MES/SPC platforms (e.g., Siemens Opcenter, InfinityQS) is enabled via OPC UA and RESTful API. Software validation documentation—including IQ/OQ protocols and URS alignment—is available upon request for regulated industries.
Applications
- Quality control of zinc-alloy passivation layers on automotive chassis components per VW 60310 and GMW 14872 specifications.
- Verification of ENIG (electroless nickel immersion gold) thickness uniformity on PCB pads prior to soldering (IPC-4552A compliant).
- Batch release testing of Sn-coated copper terminals used in EV battery modules (UL 489, SAE J2044).
- Compliance screening for RoHS-restricted substances (Pb, Cd, Hg, Cr⁶⁺, Br) alongside coating thickness in supplier incoming inspection.
- Process capability studies (Cpk/Ppk) for electroplating baths using statistical process control dashboards embedded in EliteScan.
FAQ
What standards does the XU-100 support for coating thickness measurement?
It complies with ISO 3497, ASTM B568, ASTM E1088, DIN 50981, and JIS H 8501, with built-in calculation modes for both mass-thickness and geometric-thickness conversion.
Can the XU-100 measure coatings on plastic substrates like ABS?
Yes—provided the substrate contains no interfering halogenated flame retardants; optional vacuum mode improves precision for Cr/Ni/Cu on ABS by reducing air absorption effects.
Is method transfer possible between different XU-100 units?
Yes—calibration files, spectral libraries, and measurement methods are fully portable across instruments via encrypted USB import/export, ensuring cross-site consistency.
Does the system require annual recalibration by the manufacturer?
No—users perform daily verification using check standards; factory recalibration is recommended every 24 months or after major hardware service, documented per ISO/IEC 17025.
How is operator training delivered?
Elite Instruments provides on-site or remote instructor-led training (2-day standard course), including hands-on method development, troubleshooting, and compliance documentation review.
