Speeding up the Sampling
Cement production often is characterized by a continuous operation that demands day and night control of the process as well as constant monitoring of the quality of incoming and outgoing materials.Moreover, the sheer volume of the material flow through such plants places heavy demands on the laboratory whose task it is to permanently control the production quality.
The speed and precision of wavelength dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometry analysis is helping to make the process increasingly popular among technicians within the cement industry. Its proponents claim its success is due to the ease of sample preparation (often pressed powders), flexibility, and the ease of automation.
The availability of a range of automatic analytical instrumentation has considerably reduced the routine workload of the analyst. It also has meant that classical and wet-chemical or optical methods of analysis, with all their required time and manpower, can no longer be considered competitive in high-tonnage industries, such as cement production.
Typical measurement and sample preparation take only a few minutes. Other benefits of this type of technique are the non-destructive, non-polluting nature of both the sample preparation and the analysis.
Quick and simple The analytical X-ray division of Philips claims that the CubiX system of integrated analysis makes the whole process of dispersive wavelength X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) quicker and simpler with an increased range of sample handling and advanced automation capabilities.
CubiX is a modular concept designed to allow the user to select the analysis technique (XRF, XRD, or both) most suitable for each given application. Based on proven spectrometer and diffractometer designs, the individual modules aim to fit into the existing cement plant control laboratory or, alternatively, can form the basis for a new turnkey installation.
CubiX Twin is designed for automation at any level with options ranging from individual UVR sample handlers with a priority sample position to conveyor belt options and/or robot interfaces. Additional flexibility is provided to measure monitor and/or ad hoc samples while the laboratory automation system is carrying out unattended tasks related to process control.
Using SuperQ software offering push-button operation under Windows NT, the system offers control with sample routing, simultaneous XRF and XRD analysis, archiving, and reporting. Another available option is on-line statistical process control, which monitors system performance and production trends.
CubiX XRF spectrometers can analyze up to14 elements at once, running on a Windows MDI interface. Sample identification can be entered manually or automatically. The user can prepare results and sample reports for specific local or remote control purposes.
The unit is designed with an internal sample transport and positioning system with sample surface up geometry. This, together with a small-volume airlock and an X-ray optical chamber, helps eliminate the risk of sample breakage.
Spectrometers are delivered as factory-calibrated systems in an attempt to minimize installation and start-up times. Alternatively, on-site calibration with "in-house" reference materials can be carried out using the automatic correction procedures that come standard with the supplied software.
Getting together For both existing and new cement plant installations, the system incorporates an automation interface that provides an open platform to integrate the XRF and XRD modules. The supplied software supports all control and analysis functions from a single PC.
The concept allows configurations to be assembled either in the conventional mode (robot circle) or in a form allowing free access for priority sample loading. Standardized interfacing allows technicians to choose from a range of industrial robots for additional sample preparation and allows easy access for on-site servicing.
Additional support is provided by a remote full system check, diagnostics, and preventative maintenance service.
