KLEVE, Germany, September 2011 — SPECTRO Analytical Instruments, a leading supplier of analytical instruments for optical emission and X-ray fluorescence spectrometry, has introduced the SPECTROBLUE, an inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometer (ICP-OES) that sets new benchmarks among compact, mid-range spectrometers for simplified operation, low maintenance and affordability.

“SPECTROBLUE ICP-OES is the ideal system for environmental laboratories that require a low-cost, high-throughput spectrometry solution.  SPECTROBLUE was designed to establish new levels of performance for common laboratory analysis where stability, uninterrupted operation and throughput are as important as sensitivity and resolution. It couples an ultra-reliable design with no-compromise technical innovation to achieve the lowest cost of ownership in its class,” comments Olaf Schulz, Product Manager ICP-OES. 

Robust Generator Handles Extreme Plasma Loads
A robust generator design packs an ample power reserve that can handle the most extreme plasma loads. The heat from the generator’s high-power ceramic tube is eliminated through the use of innovative air-cooled technology that alleviates the need for an expensive external water-based cooling system.

“By simplifying the design of the SPECTROBLUE, we have reduced the instrument’s initial purchase price along with its operating cost,” explains Olaf Schulz “Developed specifically to meet the demands of high-throughput laboratories, the SPECTROBLUE’s field-proven generator provides the exceptional uptime, stability, and reliability.Its unique OPIAir optical plasma interface makes SPECTROBLUE the first ICP-OES without purchase and energy costs for external cooling.”

Innovative Optics Eliminate Consumable Purge Gases, Ensure Long-Term Stability
SPECTROBLUE’s optic system and unique full-transparency UV-PLUS approach eliminate consumable purge gases and ensure excellent long-term stability, adds Olaf Schulz. The instrument’s sealed optic system abolishes gas purging for a lifetime savings totaling up to one-third of the instrument’s purchase price. Additionally, SPECTRO’s innovative Paschen-Runge optic technology permits a direct, high-luminance path for maximized light throughput, allowing the system to more easily process line-rich spectra, improve measurement accuracy and reduce expensive rework.

Along with these features, the SPECTROBLUE ICP-OES system comes equipped with SPECTRO’s proprietary SMART ANALYZER VISION software. With its highly adaptable interface, the software makes it easy for users of all experience levels to take full advantage of the instrument’s simplified operation and unique analytical capabilities.