The K1 brings the ultimate in fusion accuracy together with all the advantages of electric power: controlled heating, energy efficiency and ease of installation.
The K1 is pre-loaded with various fusion methods that can be used as is, or can be customized. A fusion method can also be quickly developed from scratch, thanks to a useful fusion wizard that asks simple questions and builds a fusion method automatically. All fusion methods can be saved, renamed, deleted or copied, just like computer files. Only the preset methods are protected to avoid accidental overwriting.
A standard platinum crucible is loaded with a few grams of powdered sample, an appropriate flux and often other agents. The crucible is inserted into the crucible heater, and locked by the heat reflector.
A platinum mold in a special holder is then installed in the mold heater.
When the user instructs the K1 to launch the fusion, electricity heats the crucible element, and all heating steps are automatically started in sequence. Temperature is constantly monitored and displayed.
The tilted rotation of the crucible heater continuously mixes the flux with the sample.
When the flux melts, it starts dissolving the sample. The mold heater element is then powered to prepare for pouring. When all sample is dissolved, the crucible holder tilts forward 130° from horizontal, to empty the crucible into the mold.
A fan located underneath cools the mold, while the crucible is ready to start a fusion again, to gain time. When the mold is completely cooled, the user picks a perfectly homogenous glass bead, ready for analysis by XRF.
For solution preparation, the hot melt is poured in an unbreakable beaker (instead of a mold), which contains an acid stirred by a magnetic system.
Accuracy
Entirely automated.
Fully reproducible fusion methods.
Completely independent heaters for crucible and mold for optimal temperature control and homogenization.
Real-time temperature display.
Safety
No gases used, so no post-combustion toxic products released.
Minimal heat dissipation (dissipates less than a hair dryer); casing remains cool to the touch; no need for a powerful vent hood.
Uses only a regular electrical outlet.
Versatility
XRF, AA and ICP fusion machine: both disk and solution units included. Can also readily do peroxide or pyrosulfate fusions.
Ready to fuse with built-in methods for oxides, minerals, metals, alloys, sulfides, fluorides and more.
Fully customizable fusion methods.
Can make liquid and solid oxidations.
Can be used at both 120 and 240 VAC (automatic switching).
Productivity
Overlapped processing of two samples: up to 50% time savings vs. other machines.
Throughput of 5 to 7 samples/hour.
Productivity is improved by a user-adjustable holding temperature. Now, the temperature between fusion can be maintained to minimize initial ramping time.
Simplicity
Plug-and-play: installs in seconds.
Intuitive, multilingual text interface, including a foolproof method development wizard.