Navigating the Maze of X-ray Guns: Why Fire Assay is Your Best Bet for Accurate Metal Analysis
In the world of precious metals, accuracy is paramount. Whether you're a seasoned investor or a newcomer to the industry, the quest for precise readings on metal composition can be fraught with challenges. One such hurdle comes in the form of X-ray guns, which, while widely used, may not always deliver the accuracy you need.
At Specialty Metals, Smelters, and Refiners, we understand the frustration that comes with unreliable readings from X-ray guns. We've heard from customers all over the globe who have encountered misleading results, particularly when it comes to detecting elements like iridium, tantalum, and rhodium. This is why we want to shed light on the limitations of these devices and offer a more reliable solution: fire assay testing.
The issue with X-ray guns lies in their inability to accurately differentiate between various elements, especially in complex metal compositions. Our experience with units from reputable manufacturers such as Olympus, Thermo Scientific, and Sciaps has revealed consistent misreadings, particularly concerning iridium. Despite their advanced technology, these devices often register false positives for iridium, sometimes indicating levels as high as 80 to 90% when, in reality, the metal is absent.
Additionally, X-ray guns struggle to penetrate the surface of gold and silver plates, leading to inaccurate readings that can misrepresent the true composition of the metal. This flaw compromises the integrity of any analysis conducted solely through X-ray technology.
To address these challenges, we advocate for fire assay testing as the gold standard in metal analysis. Unlike X-ray guns, fire assay testing involves a meticulous process that accurately determines the elemental composition of a sample. By subjecting the metal to high temperatures and carefully measuring the resulting changes, fire assay testing provides a comprehensive and precise analysis that is unmatched in accuracy.
We recognize that obtaining a fire assay test may seem like an extra step, but the peace of mind it offers is invaluable, especially when dealing with rare and valuable metals like iridium. With only 250,000 ounces of iridium mined annually worldwide, ensuring the accuracy of your metal composition is crucial.
Consider this: while gold is extracted from the earth at a rate of 3,200 tons per year, iridium is a byproduct of platinum mining, making it significantly rarer and harder to come by. This scarcity adds to its value and underscores the importance of accurate detection.
At Specialty Metals, Smelters, and Refiners, we're committed to providing our customers with the most reliable and accurate metal analysis services available. If you suspect that your metal contains iridium or other rare elements, don't rely solely on X-ray readings. Instead, send us a sample, and we'll conduct a thorough fire assay test to provide you with clear and precise results.
While we do charge a small fee for our services, we believe that the peace of mind and accuracy provided by fire assay testing far outweighs the cost. Your trust and satisfaction are our top priorities, and we're here to ensure that your metal investments are based on accurate and reliable information.
In conclusion, when it comes to navigating the complexities of metal analysis, don't leave anything to chance. Choose the reliability and accuracy of fire assay testing with Specialty Metals, Smelters, and Refiners, your trusted partner in precious metal analysis.