Hitachi to launch two new SEMs at Control

Hitachi High-Technologies is set to launch two new scanning electron microscopes (SEMs), which will be unveiled at Control in Stuttgart, Germany, between 7-10 May.

The SU3800 and oversized SU3900 SEMs feature the ability to accommodate large, heavy specimens, along with advanced functionalities for automated measurement and wide-angle camera navigation.

Dr Robert Steffen, European product manager at Hitachi High-Technologies Europe, said: “SEM applications are expanding more rapidly than ever, requiring analysis of greater size and weight specimens, such as materials from mining or automotive-related industries. However, specimens of this nature push stage limits beyond previous capacity, making it necessary to cut or further process before imaging – this restriction has given rise to demand for the ability to observe samples without reducing the size.

“Furthermore, SEMs are increasingly a key component for quality assurance and production control, in addition to their conventional applications in research and development. As a result, modern SEMs must be highly versatile and easy to use for all experience levels.”

In a bid to address these needs, Hitachi High-Technologies has introduced a solution with the SU3800/SU3900. Advanced automation functions, including auto-start, wide-angle camera navigation with stitching and auto-algorithms, enable a high-throughput system.

The oversized SU3900 features a specimen chamber/stage configuration with ability to accommodate a 300mm sample diameter and loading capacity of up to 5kg. This allows for observation of very large samples without the need to cut or process prior to imaging.

Steffen added: “The development of the SU3800/SU3900 marks another key step in the development of Hitachi High-Technologies’ SEMs, and their applications within the field of microscopy.

“The improvements in the specimen chamber size means that there is no longer the need to cut or further process a sample before imaging, which in turn provides a truer, more accurate image of the sample. As a result, users can cut down processing time and improve efficiencies within their business.

“At Hitachi High-Technologies, our aim is to offer customers products that meets their ever-evolving requirements. Therefore, we will continue to promote development, as well as sales expansion of highly sophisticated solutions and technologies, by responding swiftly to the needs of customers and markets.”