How Accurate Is an XRF Metal Analyzer?

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Among today’s technologies, X-ray fluorescence stands out as a fast, accurate, and non-destructive solution. However, many questions are still being raised: “Is the XRF analyzer truly accurate?”, “Are there large errors when analyzing gold, steel, or complex alloys?”. This article from DC Technologies will help you understand the operating principles, factors affecting accuracy, and international calibration standards to ensure reliable analytical results.

I. What is an XRF Metal Analyzer?

An XRF metal analyzer is a device that uses X-ray fluorescence technology to determine the elemental composition of a material sample. When X-rays are directed onto a metal surface, each element emits a unique fluorescent signal. The analyzer detects and processes this signal to identify the element names and their respective percentage composition in the sample.

Outstanding Advantages of XRF

Non-destructive: No cutting, grinding, or melting of the sample is required.
Fast results: Only a few seconds to a few minutes for an analysis.
Wide range of applications: Capable of measuring various metals such as Au, Ag, Cu, Ti, and industrial alloys. Advanced models can even detect light elements like Al, S, Mg, and Si.
Easy to operate: Simple procedures with automatic result display.

Thanks to these advantages, X-ray fluorescence technology has become the standard method for rapid analysis in the jewelry, material recycling, and industrial manufacturing sectors.

II. How Accurate Is the XRF Metal Analyzer?

Accuracy is always a top concern when assessing the performance of any analytical instrument. In practice, a metal analyzer can achieve an error margin of ±0.1%, depending on calibration quality, sample type, and detector technology.

When properly calibrated, spectrometers completely meet the allowable error margin in the jewelry industry as specified in Circular No. 22/2013/TT-BKHCN (dated September 26, 2013) issued by the Vietnamese Ministry of Science and Technology.

In addition, the XRF analyzer also complies with TCVN 7055:2014, which stipulates the following permissible errors:

Gold content (%)	Allowable error (%)
Below 80.0	±0.3
From 80.0 to below 99.9	±0.2
99.9	±0.1
Above 99.90	±0.02

Thanks to this level of precision, X-ray fluorescence analyzer is considered the optimal method for high-accuracy applications that require non-destructive analysis — a major advantage compared to traditional chemical testing methods.

In reality, not only the jewelry industry but also industrial manufacturing, plating, mechanical engineering, and precious metal recycling trust X-ray Fluorescence spectrometers as the modern standard for rapid, accurate, and transparent measurements.

III. Factors Affecting the Accuracy of XRF Analyzers

Although X-ray fluorescence technology offers excellent precision, measurement results can still deviate if the following factors are not properly controlled:

1. Device Calibration

This is the most crucial factor. TheX-ray Fluorescence spectrometers must be periodically calibrated using certified reference materials (CRMs) — samples whose elemental composition has been certified by reputable international organizations such as NIST (USA), BAM (Germany), or MBH Analytical (UK).

If the calibration is carried out correctly, the analyzer can maintain long-term stability and accuracy.

2. Surface Condition of the Sample

Rough surfaces, dirt, or oxidation can reduce X-ray reflection intensity and lead to inaccurate results. Therefore, it is recommended to gently clean and ensure the surface is flat before measurement.

3. Analyzer Type and Detector Technology

The accuracy of X-ray Fluorescence spectrometers largely depends on detector technology and instrument design. Handheld and benchtop models deliver different performance levels depending on detector size and signal processing capabilities.

SpectraX Series, distributed by DC Technologies, is equipped with various detector options tailored for different analytical needs:

SpectraX 20: uses Si-PIN detectors, providing fast and cost-effective analysis — ideal for small and medium-sized jewelry shops.
SpectraX 25: upgraded with an SDD (Silicon Drift Detector), which captures signals faster, reduces noise, and greatly enhances accuracy — particularly when analyzing complex alloys or high-purity materials.

Thanks to these advantages, SpectraX analyzers deliver stable and reliable results even with complex alloy samples, meeting strict inspection requirements in both jewelry and materials industries.

4. Operator and Measurement Environment

Environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and lighting, as well as operator technique, can also affect measurement results. Even a small misalignment of the sample can cause deviations in the thousandths range.

IV. Comparison Between XRF and Traditional Metal Analysis Methods

Criteria	XRF	Wet Chemistry / ICP / AAS
Accuracy	High	High
Measurement speed	Seconds	Hours
Sample destruction	None (non-destructive)	Yes (sample dissolved)
Operating cost	Low	High (chemicals, experts)
Ease of operation	Easy, automatic	Requires specialized laboratory
Best suited for	Production, rapid inspection, jewelry	Research, certification testing

With its speed, convenience, and non-destructive nature, XRF is currently the most effective and practical solution for manufacturers, jewelers, and industrial QC laboratories.

V. How to Ensure Continuous Accuracy of XRF Analyzers

The accuracy of X-ray fluorescence analyzer instruments can be consistently maintained when users follow these principles:

Regular calibration using certified XRF reference materials.
Clean the X-ray detector window and measurement area frequently.
Avoid testing in dusty, humid, or high-temperature environments.
Use reliable analytical software compatible with the device model.

By following these measures, the X-ray Fluorescence spectrometers can maintain stable performance and accuracy over many years of operation.

VI. Practical Applications of XRF Metal Analyzers

XRF metal analyzers are used not only in the jewelry industry but also across various fields, including:

Jewelry & Precious Metals: Determining gold purity, checking rhodium coatings, identifying alloy compositions.
Metallurgy & Engineering: Identifying the composition of steel, copper, aluminum, and nickel alloys.
Electronics: Testing lead, tin, and silver in solder joints.
Environmental Studies: Measuring heavy metal contamination in soil and water.

In Vietnam’s jewelry industry, X-ray Fluorescence spectrometers has become the gold standard for quality control and product valuation.

VII. DC Technologies – Trusted Supplier of XRF Metal Analyzers in Vietnam

With over 25 years of industry experience, DC Technologies is a leading and pioneering supplier of metal analyzers analytical instruments in Vietnam.

DC Technologies provides:

Handheld and benchtop XRF metal analyzers
Certified XRF reference standards, both Vietnamese and international
Calibration, maintenance, and on-site training services
Comprehensive analytical solutions for jewelry, industry, and laboratories\

Backed by a team of professional engineers and a nationwide technical support network, DC Technologies guarantees accuracy, stability, and transparency in every measurement.

VIII. Conclusion

X-ray Fluorescence spectrometers represents the most advanced solution for inspection, analysis, and quality control of metal materials in the modern industrial era.

If you are looking for a highly accurate, cost-effective, and user-friendly metal analyzer, let DC Technologies be your trusted partner in building modern testing capabilities and enhancing your brand credibility.

Blog

How Accurate Is an XRF Metal Analyzer?

I. What is an XRF Metal Analyzer?

II. How Accurate Is the XRF Metal Analyzer?