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X-5 Analyzer

The SciAps X-5 is a cost-effective, high-performance handheld XRF analyzer that reinvented the classic PiN diode detector technology with a modern SDD option. Weighing just 2.9 lbs, it is the most affordable model in the X-series, optimized for basic alloy sorting, precious metals, and transition metal analysis. It features the same advanced Android-based interface and dual-camera system as the premium models, offering a professional-grade experience at a high-value price point.

Description

The X-5 Analyzer (specifically the Precisive 5-152 LNG Analyzer by MKS Instruments) is a high-speed, real-time gas analyzer designed for the liquefied natural gas (LNG) industry. It is primarily used to monitor gas composition and calculate heating values during the loading and unloading of LNG.

Unlike traditional gas chromatographs (GCs) that can take several minutes to provide a result, the X-5 uses Tunable Filter Spectroscopy (TFSâ„¢) to deliver readings in seconds.

Key Technical Specifications

Feature Specification
Measurement Technology Tunable Filter Spectroscopy (TFSâ„¢)
Target Gases $C_{1}$ through $C_{5}$ alkanes (Methane, Ethane, Propane, Butanes, Pentanes)
Calculated Values Calorific Value (HHV & LHV), Wobbe Index, Nitrogen (calculated balance)
Response Time Default 5 seconds (Adjustable from 1 to 120 seconds)
Precision/Repeatability $<\pm 0.05\%$ absolute for hydrocarbon channels
Operational Costs No carrier gas required; no periodic re-calibration needed
Power Requirements 24 VDC or 100 – 240 VAC
Weight 12 kg (Approx. 26 lbs)
Communications Modbus over Ethernet or RS485
Certifications ATEX Zone 2, CSA Class 1 Div 2, IECEx

Core Features & Benefits

  • Real-Time Feedback: Provides continuous measurement, making it ideal for custody transfer and spot-checking where immediate data is critical.

  • Low Maintenance: Because it does not use carrier gases or require frequent recalibration, the total cost of ownership is significantly lower than traditional GCs.

  • Rugged Design: The analyzer is outdoor-rated and has a small footprint, allowing it to be mounted directly on the dock or close to the loading area.

  • Flow-Through Sensor: The design is insensitive to variations in pressure and flow, which minimizes common sampling issues found in industrial environments.

Primary Applications

  • Custody Transfer: Accurate energy content measurement during ship-to-shore or shore-to-ship transfers.

  • Terminal Monitoring: On-line analysis at receiving terminals to ensure gas quality meets pipeline specifications.

  • LNG Production: Downstream monitoring of the liquefaction process to maintain product consistency.

Datasheet

Specifications

The SciAps X-5 is engineered as a robust, entry-tier solution for industries where “old school” reliability meets modern data management. While it sits at a lower price point than the X-550 or X-505, it does not compromise on the core user experience. It uses a high-performance Silicon Drift Detector (SDD) that has been optimized to provide speed and precision for a standard suite of 24+ elements, ranging from Titanium (Ti) to Bismuth (Bi).

 

This model is the perfect choice for Scrap Recycling and Precious Metals industries that primarily focus on stainless steels, high-temperature alloys, red metals, and karat classification. Because it is not configured for light element analysis (Mg, Al, Si, P, S), it operates with a simplified, single-beam excitation that delivers full sample chemistry in under two seconds.

 
 

Despite its “value” positioning, the X-5 is built on the same aerospace-grade aluminum platform as the rest of the X-series. This ensures superior heat dissipation and durability in harsh environments. It comes fully equipped with the SciAps dual-camera system—an internal camera for precise target alignment and a macro-camera for documenting samples and reading barcodes. With integrated Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and an Android OS, the X-5 allows for instant report generation and cloud-based data sharing directly from the device.

 
 

SciAps X-5 Technical Specifications

  • Excitation Source: 4 W, 40 kV Rhodium (Rh) anode X-ray tube.

     
  • Detector: 7 mm² Silicon Drift Detector (SDD) with 170 eV resolution (standard) or classic PiN diode option.

     
  • Pulse Processor: 12-bit ADC with 80 MSPS digitization; 8K channel MCA; FPGA-based digital filtering.

     
  • Weight: 2.9 lbs (1.3 kg) with battery.

     
  • Dimensions: 8.5 x 9.5 x 2.4 inches.

     
  • Analytical Range: 24 elements standard (Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, W, Ta, Hf, Re, Se, Au, Pb, Bi, Zr, Mo, Pd, Ag, Cd, Sn, and Sb).

     
  • Processing Electronics: 1.2 GHz quad-core ARM Cortex-A53; 2 GB RAM; 16 GB storage.

     
  • Display: 2.7-inch color capacitive touchscreen.

     
  • Power: Rechargeable Li-ion battery with 60-second hot-swap capability.

     
  • Environmental Range: 10°F to 130°F (-12°C to 54°C).

     
  • Connectivity: Built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS, and USB.

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