An Alternative to Traditional XRFs (No More Radioactive Isotopes)
August 23, 2022 998 view(s)

An Alternative to Traditional XRFs (No More Radioactive Isotopes)

Traditional x-ray fluorescence (XRF) lead paint analyzers have long been used to take measurements of lead-based paint in a house, building, or unit. But these tools come with a lot of disadvantages, from inconclusive tests to regulatory and transportation burdens. On top of everything, inspectors must also cover the cost of replacing and disposing the radioactive isotopes used to power the tool.

It's time for an alternative to traditional XRF analyzers.

Introducing the SciAps X-550 Pb—a revolutionary and non-radioactive lead paint analyzer. No more radioactive sources, isotope replacement, or decay over time. Instead, experience new technology that is more accurate, quicker, and more convenient than traditional XRF analyzers.

Why Do Traditional XRF Analyzers Break Down?

A traditional XRF analyzer is powered by a radioactive isotope that naturally decays over time. It’s expensive to replace or repair the XRF or XRF tube when it breaks down. Additionally, as the isotope (and its replacements) continue to decay, the tool gets slower, making tests take more time and adding frustrations to your workload.

A Non-Radioactive Alternative to Traditional XRF Analyzers

The SciAps X-550 Pb lead paint analyzer is an alternative to traditional XRF analyzers.

This innovative tool is accepted by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) at 1.0, 0.7, and 0.5 mg/cm2 and uses new technology that does not expose the user to radiation from radioactive isotopes.

By eliminating the radioactive isotopes, the SciAps removes the costs of isotope replacement and disposal as well as the burden of owning and tracking radioactive materials.

How Does It Work?

In traditional XRF analyzers, the XRF tube runs on Cd-109 or Cd-57 isotopes. The SciAps analyzer replaces those isotopes with an x-ray tube, which uses an electric current under high voltage to generate the x-rays needed to measure the lead in paint.

Unlike radioactive source units powered by isotopes, when the SciAps is powered off, in between tests, without a battery, or otherwise not in operation, it cannot make x-rays and there is no radiation at all.

Advantages of the SciAps Lead Paint Analyzer

The SciAps analyzer isn’t just more cost-efficient; there are several additional advantages to this cutting-edge tool.

Fastest Lead Paint Analyzer on the Market

SciAps lead paint tests take between two and six seconds, making it the fastest analyzer gun on the market. And there’s no loss of speed over time because there’s no isotope that is decaying—which means the SciAps analyzer starts fast and stays fast.

No Radioactive Isotopes

With the SciAps lead paint analyzer, you eliminate costly isotope replacements as well as the gradual loss of testing speed.

Travel Convenience

Unlike analyzers powered by isotopes, the SciAps analyzer can be stored in your vehicle or at your home, making transport to job sites easier.

Highest Levels of Accuracy

The SciAps analyzer is extremely accurate. No substrate corrections or inconclusive ranges or tests—even for levels as low as 0.5 mg/cm2.

No Regulatory Compliance

Traditional XRF analyzers require you to comply with tracking and documentation regulations, carry dosimeter badges, and worry about loss or theft of a radioactive device. Fortunately, there’s no concern for these regulatory burdens with the SciAps analyzer.

Available Apps

Lead Paint App is based on published PCS standard. Optional apps include:

  • Lead in soil
  • Alloy
  • Geochem (Mining)
  • Empirical
  • Environmental Metals
  • Coming soon: Lead in dust wipes and air filters (NIOSH 7702)

XRF Rental Rates

Rental rates for the SciAps X-550 Pb will vary depending on rental length. The daily rental rate for the SciAps X-550 Pb at RAECO Rents is $625, while the weekly rental rate is $2350.

The analyzer includes an integrated micro and macro camera for photo-documentation of tests and pinpointing specific test regions on welds or non-homogeneous sample areas. Its Google-powered, Android operating system provides easy and intuitive operation—and the analyzer features Wireless and Bluetooth built in for easy connectivity to other devices.

Upgrade Your Lead Paint Analyzer at RAECO Rents

At RAECO Rents, we offer high-quality industrial hygiene, safety, and compliance instrumentation rentals to professionals across the United States and Canada. Now, we’re excited to add an alternative to traditional XRP lead paint analyzers to our rental instrument pool: the SciAps X-550 Pb.

When you rent an instrument from RAECO Rents, our experienced rental team makes sure the device is clean, operable, and in like-new condition. From our diligent operational maintenance practices to our Instant-On guarantee, we are determined to make your rental experience easy from start to finish.

Ready to learn more? Get the answers to frequently asked questions or contact us today.