BarScreenSensor
Ingot testing with the ultrasonic analyser from Goldanalytix.
The BarScreenSensor is the most important measuring device for testing the authenticity of gold bars (and other precious metal bars). The ultrasonic measurement allows full penetration of all common ingot sizes above one ounce and detects inclusions of foreign metals with differing sound velocities. When buying ingots, the BarScreenSensor will save a lot of trouble and prevent major losses in value. Checking their own stock gives users security and credibility with potential customers. Thus, precious metal dealers, banks and collectors can benefit from the BarScreenSensor both when buying and selling.
Ultrasonic measurement - the proven method for precious metal objects from 100 grams
The measuring principle of the BarScreenSensor is based on the ultrasonic measurement, in which the speed of sound is measured and thus the material of which the object is made is checked.
All metals in their pure form have a specific speed of sound. During the measurement, the BarScreenSensor emits an ultrasonic signal and measures the time the sound takes to return to the measuring head. If either the thickness or the speed of sound is known, the device can calculate the other property. A built-in core of, for example, tungsten (for gold) or a lead-tin alloy (for silver) would deflect the ultrasonic signal and thus significantly shorten the time between transmission and reception. Thus, the thickness or the speed of sound would not correspond to the desired value and the forgery is exposed.
Frequently asked questions about the BarScreenSensor
If you cannot find your question here, please use the contact form or send us an enquiry directly to gold-analytix@marawe.eu.
When taking measurements with the BarScreenSensor, it is important to remove the object’s packaging and apply ultrasonic gel to the probe. The probe must be in direct contact with the test piece. It is also important to scan the entire bar, as foreign metal inclusions may only be found at specific locations within the object. You should also physically measure the bar beforehand so that you can compare the measured ultrasonic value with the actual thickness. Furthermore, it is important to consider the size and thickness of the object. If it is too thin, the BarScreenSensor may provide incorrect results. Therefore, please use the BarScreenSensor only for bars weighing 50 to 100 grams or more. In addition, you should use at least one other measurement method (e.g., a caliper and precision scale). The smaller the bar being tested, the more embossing and hallmarks in the gold or silver will affect the measurement result.
No, we recommend using the BarScreenSensor only for objects weighing between 50 and 100 grams, and coins typically do not reach this weight. If the test specimens are too small, the ultrasonic wave’s path length is not long enough to perform a sufficiently precise measurement. The GoldScreenSensor, which can test smaller objects up to approximately 2 ounces, is an excellent complement to the BarScreenSensor.
No. For ultrasonic measurement, the BarScreenSensor’s probe must be in direct contact with the smooth surface of the object, with ultrasonic gel (included) acting as a medium.
Devices such as the GoldScreenSensor or the magnetic scale are better suited for measuring through thin packaging and blister packs. Coins and bars weighing up to approximately 2 ounces can be tested with the GoldScreenSensor. With the magnetic scale, the limit is even up to 250 g.