Description
The Thermo Scientific Niton XL2 980 Plus is the proven workhorse of handheld XRF technology — a rugged, dependable analyzer purpose-built for metal identification, alloy sorting, and positive material identification (PMI) in industrial environments.
With a 45 kV silver anode X-ray tube, precision Silicon Drift Detector (SDD), and Thermo’s trusted alloy sorting algorithm, the XL2 980 Plus delivers fast, repeatable alloy chemistry and grade identification in seconds. Whether you’re verifying stainless, sorting mixed scrap, or confirming incoming materials, this analyzer delivers lab-grade results right in the field.
Performance
The Niton XL2 980 Plus gives users an exceptional balance of speed, accuracy, and affordability.
It instantly quantifies key alloying elements and automatically matches grades using the built-in alloy library — from common stainless and aluminum grades to brasses, bronzes, and nickel-based superalloys.
Thanks to its rugged magnesium-alloy frame and field-ready design, the XL2 980 Plus thrives in scrapyards, fabrication shops, foundries, and QA/QC facilities worldwide.
Features
- Rapid alloy identification in 1–5 seconds
- Detects and identifies all major alloy families, including:
- Stainless Steels (304, 316, 321, 410, 17-4 PH and more)
- Nickel Alloys & Superalloys (Inconel, Hastelloy, Monel etc.)
- Copper Alloys (brass, bronze, cupronickel)
- Tool Steels, Titanium Alloys, and Cobalt Alloys
- Aluminum Detection including 6061 vs 6063 sorting
- High-resolution SDD detector with excellent repeatability
- 45 kV silver-anode tube for broad elemental coverage
- Integrated grade library & automatic Alloy Match display
- Rugged IP54-rated enclosure / drop-tested for field use
- Intuitive touchscreen + trigger operation
- Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and USB data export capabilities
Applications
- Scrap Metal Sorting & Recycling
- Manufacturing QA/QC & Material Verification
- PMI Testing for Fabrication and Welding Shops
- Alloy Certification & Inventory Control
- Power Generation & Petrochemical Maintenance
Why Choose the Niton XL2 980 Plus
- Proven Thermo Scientific reliability and accuracy
- Fast alloy identification without complex setup
- Built-in grade library and intuitive software interface
- Compact and field-tough — ready for daily industrial use
- Outstanding value compared to premium XRF models
Included With Purchase
- Thermo Scientific Niton XL2 980 Plus Handheld XRF Analyzer
- Two rechargeable batteries + battery charger
- Calibration coupon / reference standard for both heavy and light element checks
- USB cable
- Rugged field case
- Optional accessories: CLICK HERE to find all other parts for the Niton XL2 980 Plus
Modes/Calibrations
-
General Metal Analysis - Metal Analysis of Alloys
Element Included: Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu., Zn, Se, Nb, Zr, Mo, Pd, Ag, Au, Ru, Cd, Sn, Sb, Ta, Hf, Re, W, Pb, Bi, Mg, Al, Si, P, S (31) - Other modes are available upon request including: Precious Metals, Consumer Goods, Soil, and more!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How fast can the XL2 980 Plus identify an alloy?
A: Most common alloys are identified in 1–3 seconds with grade name and composition displayed instantly.
Q: Can it measure light elements like Al or Si?
A: Yes — while optimized for medium and heavy elements, the 45 kV tube provides sufficient energy for accurate aluminum and silicon readings in most alloys.
Q: Is it durable enough for scrap yards and plant floors?
A: Absolutely. The XL2 980 Plus has been the standard for scrap yards and foundries for over 10 years!
Q: Does it come with a grade library?
A: Yes — the unit ships with Thermo’s comprehensive global alloy library pre-installed.
Q: How does it compare to the Niton XL5 Plus?
A: The XL2 980 Plus offers outstanding value and accuracy for standard alloy sorting. The XL5 Plus adds a 50 kV tube, larger SDD detector, and faster light-element performance for advanced applications.
Dependable Alloy Identification Starts Here
Get proven performance and Thermo Scientific reliability with the Niton XL2 980 Plus Handheld XRF Analyzer.
✅ Instant metal identification for all major alloys
✅ Rugged design for industrial environments
✅ Trusted accuracy and speed you can count on
Available now through Alloy Geek — Your Handheld XRF Experts.
Documents
- Thermo Scientific Niton XL2 980 Plus Brochure
- Thermo Scientific Niton XL2 980 Plus Spec Sheet
- Thermo Scientific Niton XL2 980 Plus Limits of Detection - Alloy
- Thermo Scientific Niton XL2 980 Plus Manual
To Request a Quote
- Request a Quote Online
- Call us at 919-400-1216
- Email us at sales@alloygeek.com