X-MET
X-MET8000 Series for the
determination of lead in water pipes
Application Note 19
Background
X-MET8000 series handheld analysers
Because of its relative abundance in the earth’s crust and its
Oxford Instruments’ latest generation of field portable analysers
malleability, lead (Pb) was used in the production of pipes for
present many advantages for on-site materials verification:
water supply for centuries. It wasn’t until the 20th century that
• Easy to use: simple point and shoot operation. Minimal user
scientific research demonstrated that lead was harmful to the
human body. Ingestion or inhalation of lead can cause damage
to the brain, kidneys, and nervous system, especially in young
children and pregnant women.
To ensure that public drinking water meets strict safety
requirements, the Safe Water Drinking Act was introduced
in the US in 1974, and its latest amendment (published in
2011) requires the use of “lead-free” pipes, solder, and flux
training is required
• Fast: reliable alloy grade identification and chemistry in
seconds, for high testing throughput
• Rugged: its IP54 rating ensures durability and low cost of
ownership. Ideal for use outdoors
• C ompact and lightweight (1.5kg with battery), the
X-MET8000 is fully portable and is supplied in a small
in the installation or repair of any public water system, or any
and rugged case for easy transportation
plumbing in residential or non-residential facilities connected to
from site to site
a public water system. Lead-free is defined as:
- less than 0.20% Pb in solder and flux
- less than 0.25% Pb in wetted surfaces of pipes, pipe fittings,
plumbing fittings and fixtures (e.g. faucets, drinking water
fountains).
To prevent the leaching of lead into drinking water, many pipes
in potable water supplies have been replaced by copper pipes.
However, the use of leaded solder is still widespread, and some
brass faucets and fittings may still contain lead. Also, because
the fabrication of lead-free fittings is more costly, components
containing lead are still used for other water installations and in
countries in which regulations are not yet in place.
X-ray fluorescence (XRF) is a proven, non-destructive technique
that enables the determination of the elemental composition of
various materials, including metal alloys, in seconds. This makes
it the technique of choice for the rapid testing of plumbing
components.
Measurement procedure
Testing couldn’t be simpler: simply position the X-MET’s nose on the part to test,
and press the trigger to measure. Results are displayed on the analyser’s large (4.3”)
integrated touchscreen almost immediately.
The results display can be customised to show pass/fail messages when a given
element is above or below a user-defined level (e.g. show FAIL if Pb > 0.25%),
enabling rapid decision making.
To measure solders accurately, the small-spot collimator option is available on the
X-MET8000 Optimum. It enables isolation of the solder material from the pipe
material, and the use of the camera ensures correct positioning of the analyser on
the solder joint.
Data management
The X-MET8000 stores up to 100,000 results in its internal memory. Additional,
user-defined information can be added at the time of analysis, such as location,
sample description, part or job number, etc. Results reports can be downloaded
directly to a USB memory key, or sent via WiFi to a networked computer, as a CSV
file, or in secure PDF format.
Conclusion
The X-MET8000 handheld analyser provides rapid and reliable material identification and chemistry for positive material
identification (PMI) inspection as well as for manufacturing quality assurance and on-site verification of existing water supply
installations. Its ease of use, ruggedness and ergonomics make it the tool of choice for any metal testing applications.
Ordering information
• X -MET8000 Smart or Optimum (Optimum enables the additional analysis of light elements i.e. Mg, Al, Si, P and S).
Includes the compact, waterproof, rugged carrying case, a wrist strap and lanyard, 2 batteries, a battery charger, a USB cable
to connect to a PC/laptop, 5 replacements windows, and user manual
•Optional small-spot collimator with relevant calibration for the accurate analysis of small welds
•Optional holster and belt (P/No. 54-4106296) for hands-free transportation
OiService – here to help
OiService aims to keep your analysers working as hard as you do. Our global network of service hubs provides a full range of
technical support including: telephone help-desks, on-line diagnostics, rental instruments, recertification and maintenance,
training, extended warranties, consumables and accessories and repairs. Our service agreements provide a great way to avoid
unplanned costs and ensure your analyser is maintained in excellent condition.
visit www.oxford-instruments.com/PMI for more information
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and registrations. © Oxford Instruments plc, 2016. All rights reserved. Part no: OIIA/187/0416