Main components of an x-ray fluorescence
coating/plating thickness measuring system.
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When a material is subjected to x-ray
bombardment, some of its electrons will gain energy and leave the
atom, creating a void in the vacated shell, thereby releasing a
photon of x-ray energy known as x-ray fluorescence.
The energy level or wavelength of fluorescent x-rays is proportional
to the atomic number of the atom and is characteristic for a particular
material. The quantity of energy released will be dependent upon
the thickness of the material being measured.
Basically, the x-ray fluorescence unit consists of an x-ray tube
and a proportional counter. Emitted photons ionize the gas in the
counter tube proportional to their energy, permitting spectrum analysis
for determination of the material and thickness.
X-ray fluorescence is the most precise measurement method, especially
for small-diameter parts, or dual coatings such as gold and nickel
over copper |
