Thermo Scientific XL2 User Manual

Thermo Fisher Scientific Niton
Analyzers

XL2 Analyzer

Version 8.0.1

User’s Guide (Abridged)

Refer to NITON XL2 Resource Guide for complete information

Revision A March 2012

© 2010 Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. All rights reserved.

Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. provides this document to its customers with a product purchase to use in the
product operation. This document is copyright protected and any reproduction of the whole or any part of this
document is strictly prohibited, except with the written authorization of Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc.

The contents of this document are subject to change without notice. All technical information in this
document is for reference purposes only. System configurations and specifications in this document supersede
all previous information received by the purchaser.

Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. makes no representations that this document is complete, accurate or error­free and assumes no responsibility and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, damage or loss that might
result from any use of this document, even if the information in the document is followed properly.

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document shall in no way govern or modify any Terms and Conditions of Sale, which Terms and Conditions of
Sale shall govern all conflicting information between the two documents.

Release history:

For Research Use Only. Not for use in diagnostic procedures.

Contents

Chapter 0 Contact Us. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1

Chapter 1 Manual Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1

Warnings, Cautions, and Notes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Figures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Physical Buttons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Other Hardware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Chapter 2 Using Your Analyzer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

Safely and Effectively Using Your Analyzer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Proper and Improper Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Chapter 3 How to Analyze . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23

General Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Chapter 4 Basic Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29

Taking a Sample Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Analysis Modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Chapter 5 Common Operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Metal Sample Prep . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Soil Sample Prep . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

Preparing Mining Samples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Setting Up Beep Times . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Sorting the Custom Element Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Max Measure Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

Minumum Test Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

Virtual Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

Setting Display Units . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

Adjusting the Element Range . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

Setting the Date and Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

Calibrating the Touch Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

Chapter 6 Data Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83

Viewing Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

Viewing Fingerprints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

Erasing Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

Managing Libraries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

Chapter 7 Connectivity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .103

Using Your Analyzer With Your PC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109

Connecting From Your Analyzer to Your PC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111

Using a USB Cable to Connect Your Analyzer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114

Downloading Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116

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Contents

Chapter 7 Controlling Your Analyzer From Your PC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125

Chapter 8 Learning More, Service, and Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .129

Replacing the Measurement Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129

Tips and Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132

Storing and Transporting Your Niton XL2 Analyzer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139

Chapter 8 Advanced Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .143

Tools Menu Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149

NDF Files: User Data Structuring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 169

Safety Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 181

Camera . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 188

Chapter 8 Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 191

Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 191

2 manual-name Thermo Scientific

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2 Niton XL2 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo Scientific

Manual Overview

Warnings, Cautions, and Notes

Warnings

Warnings are extremely important recommendations, violating which may result in either
injury to yourself or others, or damage to your analyzer and/or data. Warnings will always be
identified as Warnings in the text, and will always be visually presented as follows:

WARNING This is a Warning.

Example Warning:

WARNING Tampering with the 5,500 ppm (Lead high) lead-in-soil standard may cause

exposure to lead dust. Keep all standards out of reach of children.

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Warnings, Cautions, and Notes

Cautions

Example Caution:

Notes

Example Note:

Cautions are important recommendations. Cautions will always be identified as Cautions in
the text, and will always be visually presented as follows:

CAUTION This is a Caution.

CAUTION Never tamper with Test Standards. They should not be used unless they are

completely intact

Notes are informational asides which may help you with your analyses. Notes will always be
identified as Notes in the text, and will always be visually presented as follows:

Note This is a Note.

Note For defensible Quality Control, keep a record of the time and precision of every

calibration

Figures

Figures are illustrations used to show what something looks like. Figures will always be
labelled and identified as Figures directly below the Figure itself, and will always be visually
presented as follows:

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Physical Buttons

Figure 1. This is a Figure

Physical Buttons

Physical Buttons are actual buttons on the analyzer which must be pushed to activate their
function. Physical Buttons will always be identified as Buttons in the text, and will always be
visually presented as follows:

This is a Physical Button.

Example Physical Buttons:

On/Off/Escape Button, Clear/Enter Button, Interlock Button, and Trigger Button.

Other Hardware

Other Hardware refers to any physical part of the analyzer which performs a necessary
function. Other Hardware will always be visually presented as follows:

This is an example of Other Hardware.

Example Other Hardware:

Battery, Touch Screen Display, Measurement Window, and USB Cable

2 Niton XL2 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo Scientific

Using Your Analyzer

This section discusses the basics of using your analyzer, no matter the
specific type of analysis you wish to perform. First we go over analyzer
safety, particularly radiation safety. Using an X-ray based analyzer safely
is very important, and not difficult, provided you read, understand, and
follow these guidelines. Secondly, we outline the startup procedure we
recommend for daily use to ensure that your analyzer is performing
properly and at its most efficient level. 

Safely and Effectively Using Your Analyzer

CAUTION Niton analyzers are not intrinsically safe analyzers. All

pertinent Hot Work procedures should be followed in areas of concern.

WARNING Always treat radiation with respect. Do not hold your
analyzer near the measurement window during testing. Never point your
analyzer at yourself or anyone else when the shutter is open.

Radiation and General Safety

This section covers topics related to radiation safety and general safety
when using a Thermo Scientific Niton XL2 analyzer. At a minimum all
operators of the analyzer should be familiar with the instructions
provided in this chapter in order to handle the analyzer in a safe manner.
In addition to reading the information presented on the following pages,
Thermo Fisher Scientific recommends that instrument users participate
in a radiation safety and operational training class.

Radiation Protection Basics

The Niton Model XL2 analyzer contains an x-ray tube which emits
radiation only when the user turns the x-ray tube on. When the x-ray
tube is on and the shutter is open, as during a measurement, the analyzer
emits a directed radiation beam - see Figures 1-1 and 1-2. Reasonable
effort should be made to maintain exposures to radiation as far below
dose limits as is practical. This is known as the ALARA (As Low as
Reasonably Achievable) principle. For any given source of radiation,
three factors will help minimize your radiation exposure: Time,
Distance, and Shielding.

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Time

The longer you are exposed to a source of radiation the longer the radiation is able to interact
in your body and the greater the dose you receive. Dose increases in direct proportion to
length of exposure.

Distance

The closer you are to a source of radiation, the more radiation strikes you. Based
on geometry alone, dose increases and decreases with an inverse-squared relation
to your distance from the source of radiation (additional dose rate reduction comes
from air attenuation). For example, the radiation dose one foot from a source is
nine times greater than the dose three feet from the source. Remember to keep your
hands and all body parts away from the front end of the analyzer when the shutter
is open to minimize your exposure.

Shielding

Exposure to Radiation

Shielding is any material that is placed between you and the radiation source. The more
material between you and the source, or the denser the material, the less you will be exposed
to that radiation. Supplied or optional test stands are an additional source of shielding for
analysis. A backscatter shield accessory is also available and may be appropriate in some
applications.

Human dose to radiation is typically measured in rem, or in one-thousandths of a rem, called
millirem (mrem), 1 rem = 1000 mrem. Another unit of dose is the Sievert (Sv), 1 Sv = 100
rem. The allowable limit for occupational exposure in the U.S (and many other countries) is
5,000 mrem/year (50 mSv/year) for deep (penetrating) dose and 50,000 mrem/year (500
mSv/year) for shallow (i.e., skin) dose or dose to extremities. Deep, shallow, and extremity
exposure from a properly used Niton XL2 analyzer should be less than 200 mrem per year,
(2.0 mSv per year) even if the analyzer is used as much as 2,000 hours per year, with the
shutter open continuously. The only anticipated exceptions to the 200 mrem maximum
annual dose are: 1) routine and frequent analysis of plastic samples without use of a test stand,
backscatter shield, or similar additional protective measures, or 2) improper use where a part
of the body is in the primary beam path.

Note NEVER OPERATE THE DEVICE WITH A PART OF YOUR BODY IN THE
PRIMARY BEAM PATH OR WITH THE PRIMARY BEAM PATH DIRECTED AT
ANYONE ELSE.

Also, consider the use of protective accessories such as a shielded test stand or backscatter
shield (or equivalent) when performing routine and/or frequent analysis of any of the
following:

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• light materials (such as plastic, wood, or similarly low density/low atomic mass
samples)

• thin samples (such as foils, circuit boards, and wires)

• samples that are smaller than the analysis window.

Shown in Table 1 are the typical background radiation doses received

by the average member
of the public. The radiation dose limits for radiation workers in the US are also shown in

Table 2.

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Table 1. Typical Radiation Doses Received (Source: NCRP 1987)

Category Dose in mrem Dose in mSv

Average total dose in US (annual) 360 3.6

Average worker exposure (annual) 210 2.1

Average exposure for an underground

400 4.0
miner
Exposure for airline crew (1,000 hours at

500 5.0
35,000 ft)
Additional from living in Denver at 5300’

25 .25
(annual)
Additional from 4 pCi/l radon in home 1,000 10.0

Typical Chest X-Ray 6 0.06

Typical Head or Neck X-Ray 20 0.2

Typical pelvis/hip x-ray 65 0.65

Typical lumbar spine x-ray 30 0.3

Typical Upper G.I. x-ray 245 2.45

Typical Barium enema x-ray 405 4.05

Typical CAT scan 110 1.10

Table 2. Annual Occupational Dose Limits for Radiation Workers (Source:

Code of Federal Regulations Title 10, Part 20)

Category Dose in mrem Dose in mSv

Whole Body 5000 50

Pregnant Worker (during gestation

500 5
period)
Eye Dose Equivalent 15,000 150

Shallow dose equivalent to the skin or

50,000 500
any extremity or organ
Maximum allowable dose for the general

100 1.0
public (annual)
For a Minor 500 5.0

6 Niton XL2 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo Scientific

Monitoring your radiation exposure

Individuals can be monitored for the radiation dose they receive by use of radiation dosimetry
devices (dosimeters). Monitoring dose using a dosimeter can be a way of identifying improper
use and at the same time demonstrating proper use. In some locations, dosimetry is required
by regulations and in others it is optional. It is normally required when the user could
reasonably be expected to receive in excess of 10% of the annual dose limit. Thermo Fisher
Scientific recommends that you determine and obey the local regulatory requirements
concerning radiation monitoring of occupational workers.

Two common types of dosimeters are whole-body badges and ring badges. Whole body
badges are often attached to the user’s torso (e.g., clipped to the collar, shirt pocket, or waist as
appropriate). A ring badge is worn on the finger as a measure of maximum extremity dose.
When worn, the specific location of the dosimeter should be that part of the body that is
expected to receive the highest dose. This location will depend on how the analyzer is used
and so it may not be the same for all users. Dosimetry services are offered by many companies.
Two companies offering dosimetry services in the USA and much of the world are:

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Company Global Dosimetry Solutions Landauer, Inc.

Address 2652 McGaw Avenue 2 Science Road

City and State Irvine, CA 92614 Glenwood, IL 60425-9979

Website www.dosimetry.com www.landauerinc.com

Phone Number [phone] [phone]

Note Wearing a dosimeter badge does not protect you against radiation exposure. A
dosimeter badge only measures your exposure (at the dosimeter location).

Pregnancy and Radiation Exposure

International guidance documents (e.g., ICRP Publication 60 and NCRP Publication 116*)
recommend that the radiation dose to the embryo/fetus of a pregnant woman should not
exceed a total of 500 mrem (10% of normal radiation worker limit) during the gestation
period. While this dose limit exceeds the dose limit to a trained operator, pregnant workers
may want to take special precautions to reduce their exposure to radiation. For more
information see the U.S. NRC Regulatory Guide 8.13 "Instruction Concerning Prenatal
Radiation Exposure" which can be found on the resource CD.

* The International Commission on Radiological Protection, ICRP, is an independent
Registered Charity, established to advance for the public benefit the science of radiological
protection, in particular by providing recommendations and guidance on all aspects of
protection against ionizing radiation.

Thermo Scientific Niton XL2 Analyzer User’s Guide 7

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* The National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements (NCRP) was chartered
by the U.S. Congress in 1964 as the National Council on Radiation Protection and
Measurements.

How to Use the Niton XL2 Analyzer Safely

The Niton XL2 analyzer is designed to be safe to operate provided that it is used in
accordance with manufacturer's instructions. Under conditions of normal use, monitored
operators seldom receive a measurable dose and have not been known to receive in excess of
10% of the annual occupational dose limits (a criteria that would require monitoring under
regulation in the U.S.). In addition to proper use of the analyzer, it is recommended that you
follow these precautions to ensure your safety and the safety of those around you.

Know where the beam is

The primary beam is a directed beam out of the front of the analyzer that can have high dose
rates. The secondary beam, or scattered beam, has much lower dose rates.

Figure 1. Primary Beam

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Figure 2. Secondary (Scattered) Beam

The Shutter-Open Indicator Lights

When the lights are flashing, the primary beam is on, and radiation is being emitted from the
front of the analyzer.



Figure 3. The X-ray Beam Indicator Lights

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Handle and Use with Respect

Avoid holding the front of the analyzer when the x-ray tube is energized and the shutter is
open. Never point the instrument at yourself or anyone else when the shutter is open and the
x-ray tube is energized. Never look into the path of the primary beam.

Follow a Radiation Protection Program

Your organization should establish, document, and follow a Radiation Protection Program.
An example of such a program can be found on the resource CD (provided with the
instrument).

Take Proper Care of your Niton XL2

Keeping your analyzer maintained in good condition will help minimize the risk of accidental
exposure. Mechanical malfunction of the shutter can be avoided by maintaining the
measurement window, as described in the User Guide. This prevents foreign objects from
entering your analyzer

Avoid Over-Exposures

Direct contact with the window could result in overexposures in the times indicated inTable 3
below.

Table 3. Potential Exposure Limit Times

Location of Dose Limit Time to Reach Limit

Deep Dose /
Whole Body
Shallow Dose /
Extremities
Member of Public
(i.e. untrained
operator)

Extremity is defined by the NRC as the hand, elbow, arm below the elbow, foot, knee, or leg
below the knee. Whole Body is defined by the NRC as the head, trunk (including male
gonads), arms above the elbow, or legs above the knee.

Safe Handling of Samples

5 rem (50 mSv) 2.1 minutes

50 rem (500 mSv) 0.95 minutes

0.1 to 5 rem (1 to 50 mSv) 2.5 to 9.5 seconds

As mentioned many times in this chapter, never place any part of your body in the path of the
x-ray beam. There is always a safe way to handle samples whether they are small, irregularly
shaped, or of low density. Never look into the path of the primary beam.

10 Niton XL2 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo Scientific

Small Samples

A small sample would be any sample that is smaller than the measurement window. Small
samples present a unique risk because they don’t block the entire beam path. The difficulty
with placing small samples down on a work surface to analyze them is that you may get
readings from the work surface that interfere with analytical results. A test stand is an effective
way of analyzing small samples accurately and safely. Never hold samples during analysis or
look into the path of the primary beam.

Irregularly Shaped Samples

Irregularly shaped samples may not allow the proximity button to be depressed, or they may
not entirely cover the primary beam and cause additional scattering. A back scatter shield is a
safe way of reducing your radiation exposure while effectively analyzing an irregularly shaped
sample.

Light Materials (such as plastics).

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X-rays are attenuated more by denser and higher atomic mass materials, and less through
lighter materials such as plastic. This causes higher dose rates in the scattered radiation. If you
are frequently handling low density samples, you should consider the use of test stands,
backscatter shields, or the equivalent.

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Niton XL2 Radiation Profile

Radiation Meter Information

Model: Bicron MicroRem

SN: 2057

Cal Due: 10/10/2009

Background Radiation Level

<0.01 mr/hr

Table 4 - Scatter Measurements off various substrates - Dose Rates in mRem/hr

Table 4. Niton XL2 Radiation Profile - Scatter Measurements - mRem/hr

kV uA Range Substrate Max @ 5cm Max @ 30 cm Max @ Trigger

15 80 Low Aluminum <0.01 <0.01 <0.01

15 80 Low Stainless <0.01 <0.01 <0.01

15 80 Low Plastic <0.01 <0.01 <0.01

15 80 Low Soil <0.01 <0.01 <0.01

20 80 Low Aluminum <0.01 <0.01 <0.01

20 80 Low Stainless <0.01 <0.01 <0.01

20 80 Low Plastic 3 <0.01 <0.01

20 80 Low Soil <0.01 <0.01 <0.01

45 44 Main Aluminum 1.2 0.017 0.01

45 44 Main Stainless 1.6 <0.01 <0.01

45 44 Main Plastic 19 1.2 0.15

45 44 Main Soil 2.0 0.050 0.025

12 Niton XL2 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo Scientific

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Table 5 - Scatter Measurements off various substrates - Dose Rates in µSv/hr

Table 5. Niton XL2 Radiation Profile - Scatter Measurements - µSv/hr

kV uA Range Substrate Max @ 5cm Max @ 30 cm Max @ Trigger

15 80 Low Aluminum <0.1 <0.1 <0.1

15 80 Low Stainless <0.1 <0.1 <0.1

15 80 Low Plastic <0.1 <0.1 <0.1

15 80 Low Soil <0.1 <0.1 <0.1

20 80 Low Aluminum <0.1 <0.1 <0.1

20 80 Low Stainless <0.1 <0.1 <0.1

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20 80 Low Plastic 30 <0.1 <0.1

20 80 Low Soil <0.1 <0.1 <0.1

45 44 Main Aluminum 12 0.17 0.1

45 44 Main Stainless 16 <0.1 <0.1

45 44 Main Plastic 190 12 1.5

45 44 Main Soil 20 0.50 0.25

Notes:

Scatter measurements were taken at a radius of 5 or 30 cm around the nose of the analyzer
with the highest scatter dose rate being recorded.

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Table 6 - In Beam Measurements - Dose Rates in Rem/hr

Table 6. Niton XL2 Radiation Profile - In Beam Measurements - Rem/hr

kV uA Range Contact Deep Contact Shallow 5cm Deep 30cm Deep

15 80 Low 7.9 230 2.1 0.088

20 80 Low 41 690 19 0.90

45 44 Main 45 150 7.4 0.70

Table 7 - In Beam Measurements - Dose Rates in mSv/hr

Table 7. Niton XL2 Radiation Profile - In Beam Measurements - mSv/hr

kV uA Range Contact Deep Contact Shallow 5cm Deep 30cm Deep

15 80 Low 79 2300 21 0.88

20 80 Low 410 6900 190 9.0

45 44 Main 450 1500 74 7.0

Notes:

In beam dose rates were measured using optically stimulated luminescent (OSL) dosimeters.

Reported results are based on measurement results that have been reduced to 2 significant
digits by rounding up. For example, a measurement result of 1441 would be reported as

1500.

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Niton XL2 GOLDD Radiation Profile

Table 8 - Niton XL2 GOLDD Radiation profile- Scatter measurements - mRem/hr

Table 8. Niton XL2 GOLDD Radiation Profile - Scatter Measurements - mRem/hr

kV uA Range Substrate Max @ 5cm Max @ 30 cm Max @ Trigger

8 100 Light Plastic <0.01 <0.01 <0.01

8 100 Light Stainless <0.01 <0.01 <0.01

8 100 Light Soil <0.01 <0.01 <0.01

45 44.4 Main Aluminum 0.5 <0.01 <0.01

45 44.4 Main Stainless 0.01 <0.01 <0.01

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45 44.4 Main Plastic 5.0 0.4 0.8

45 44.4 Main Soil 0.9 <0.01 <0.01

Table 9 - Niton XL2 GOLDD Radiation Profile - Scatter Measurements - µSv/hr

Table 9. Niton XL2 GOLDD Radiation Profile - Scatter Measurements - µSv/hr

kV uA Range Substrate Max @ 5cm Max @ 30 cm Max @ Trigger

8 100 Light Plastic <0.1 <0.1 <0.1

8 100 Light Stainless <0.1 <0.1 <0.1

8 100 Light Soil <0.1 <0.1 <0.1

45 44.4 Main Aluminum 5.0 <0.1 <0.1

45 44.4 Main Stainless 0.1 <0.1 <0.1

45 44.4 Main Plastic 50 4.0 8.0

45 44.4 Main Soil 9.0 <0.1 <0.1

Notes:

Scatter measurements were taken at a radius of 5 or 30 cm around the nose of the analyzer
with the highest scatter dose rate being recorded.

Thermo Scientific Niton XL2 Analyzer User’s Guide 15

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Table 10 - Niton XL2 GOLDD Radiation Profile - In Beam Measurements - Rem/hr

Table 10. Niton XL2 GOLDD Radiation Profile - In Beam Measurements - Rem/hr

kV uA Range Contact Deep Contact Shallow 5cm Deep 30 cm Deep

8 100 Light 0.01 980 0.002 <0.001

45 44.4 Main 39 130 8.1 0.51

Table 11 - Niton XL2 GOLDD Radiation Profile - In Beam Measurements - mSv/hr

Table 11. Niton XL2 GOLDD Radiation Profile - In Beam Measurements - mSv/hr

kV uA Range Contact Deep Contact Shallow 5cm Deep 30 cm Deep

8 100 Light 0.1 9800 0.02 <0.01

45 44.4 Main 390 1300 81 5.1

Notes:

In beam dose rates were measured using optically stimulated luminescent (OSL) dosimeters.

Reported results are based on measurement results that have been reduced to 2 significant
digits by rounding up. For example, a measurement result of 1441 would be reported as

1500.

16 Niton XL2 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo Scientific

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Figure 4. Primary and Secondary Dose Locations (Not to Scale)

Thermo Scientific Niton XL2 Analyzer User’s Guide 17

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Primary Radiation

Primary radiation is radiation that is produced by the analyzer and emitted out through the
kapton measurement window. Individuals should never place any part of their body in the
primary beam path when the x-ray tube is on. There should always be a sample in contact
with the measurement window when the x-ray tube is on. The sample will absorb most of the
primary-beam radiation unless it is smaller than the instrument's measurement window or of
low atomic mass, low density, and/or very thin. Caution should be taken when analyzing
samples that are small, thin, and/or low in atomic mass or density as they may allow much
more of the primary beam to escape. In-beam primary radiation dose rates for the Niton XL2
are listed in Table 6 andTable 7 - or Table 10 and Table 11 for the Niton XL2 GOLDD -and

heir location identified relative to the analyzer in Figure 4as Dose Point C.

t

Secondary Radiation

Under conditions of normal and proper use, individuals can be exposed to secondary (or
"scattered") radiation. Secondary radiation is low-level radiation that emanates from the
sample being analyzed as a result of primary beam radiation scattering in the sample or
primary beam radiation inducing fluorescent x-rays in the sample. Dose points A, A’ and B in

Figure 4are examples of where you can encounter secondary radiation. The magnitude of this

secondary radiation is sample dependent. Higher atomic mass and density samples such as
steel will emit the lowest levels as they absorb most primary and secondary radiations. Lower
atomic mass and density samples such as aluminum, wood, and especially plastic, will produce
higher levels of secondary radiation. Secondary radiation dose rates for the Niton XL2 are
listed in Table 4and Table 5- or Table 8 and Table 9 for the Niton XL2 GOLDD - for a few

ommon sample types over a wide range of densities.

c

The operator is reminded that one should never hold samples during analysis, doing so will
result in higher than necessary exposure to secondary radiation and could expose the operator
directly to the much higher primary-beam dose rates.

Deep and Shallow Dose

You will find in Table 6, Table 7, Table 10, and Table 11that shallow dose rates are listed for
some dose points. All dose rates listed in these four Tables are deep dose unless they are
specifically identified as shallow dose. Deep dose is dose from penetrating radiation that is
delivered to both skin and underlying tissues and organs and is the type most commonly
referred to when describing external radiation hazards. Occupational deep dose is limited to a
maximum of 5 rem (50 mSv) per year in the United States and most countries internationally.
Deep dose is measured at 1.0 cm below the skin surface.

18 Niton XL2 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo Scientific

Shallow dose is often referred to as "skin dose" because it is a result of low penetrating
radiation that only interacts with the skin. Shallow dose is limited to a maximum of 50 rem
(500 mSv) per year in the United States and most countries internationally. Shallow dose is
listed for primary in-beam dose points only because the low penetrating radiation that causes
shallow dose is nearly all absorbed by a sample and does not produce any significant secondary
radiation. Shallow dose is measured at a point 0.007 cm below the surface.

Proper and Improper Operation

Storage and Transportation

Storage

Regulations in nearly all locations will require that you store your analyzer locked in a secured
area to prevent access, use, and/or removal by unauthorized individuals. Storage requirements
will vary by location, particularly with regard to storage at temporary job sites or away from
your primary storage location such as hotels and motels and in vehicles. You should contact
your local Radiation Control Authority to identify the specific storage requirements in your
jurisdiction.

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Transportation

There are no X-ray tube specific US Department of Transportation (DOT) or International
Air Transport Association (IATA) radiation regulations regarding shipping the Niton XL2
analyzer. It is recommended that you ship the analyzer in its carrying case and an over-pack to
protect the sensitive measuring equipment inside the analyzer. Do NOT ship the analyzer
with the battery pack connected to the analyzer.

Lost or Stolen Instrument

Note THIS PAGE CONTAINS EMERGENCY CONTACT INFORMATION THAT

SHOULD BE AVAILABLE TO THE OPERATOR AT ALL TIMES.

If the Niton XL2 analyzer is lost or stolen, notify your Radiation Safety Officer (RSO) or the
equivalent responsible individual at your company or institution immediately. Your
company's RSO, as well as other important emergency contacts, are listed below. Your
company RSO may need to notify the x-ray tube regulatory authority and the local police. It
is also recommended that a notification is made to Thermo Fisher Scientific.

Damaged Instrument

Minor Damage

If the instrument is intact but there is indication of an unsafe condition such as a cracked case,
a shutter mechanism failure, or the lights remain flashing after a measurement is terminated,
follow these steps:

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1. Stop using the instrument

2. Remove the battery. The x-ray tube can not produce radiation when the battery is
disconnected. The instrument is now safe to handle.

3. Place the instrument securely in the holster.

4. Place the instrument in the carrying case that came with the instrument.

5. Notify your Radiation Safety Officer (RSO) or the equivalent responsible individual at
your company or institution immediately.

6. You or your RSO should call Thermo Fisher Scientific at one of their contact numbers
listed below for additional instructions and guidance.

Major Damage

If the instrument is severely damaged:

1. Perform the same steps as described above for minor damage. There will be no radiation
hazard as long as the battery is removed from the instrument.

2. Place all components in a plastic bag and contact Thermo Fisher Scientific.

20 Niton XL2 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo Scientific

Emergency Response Information

Please Complete the Following Emergency Response Information and Keep with the Analyzer
at All Times

NITON ANALYZER EMERGENCY CONTACT INFORMATION

The Company RSO is:______________________________________

RSO Telephone Number:____________________________________

Regulatory Agency Emergency Number:________________________

Local Fire Department:______________________________________

Local or State Police Department:_____________________________

Thermo Fisher Scientific's Niton Analyzer Contact Numbers

Main Number (USA): [phone]

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Europe

Asia

Additional Radiation Emergency #'s: [phone] or [phone]

Outside the USA - Local Niton Service Center:___________________

Niton Analyzers Europe

Munich, Germany

Phone: [phone]

Fax: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Niton Analyzers Asia

Hong Kong

Phone: [phone]

Fax: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Thermo Scientific Niton XL2 Analyzer User’s Guide 21

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Registration and Licensing

As a user of a Niton XL2 analyzer, you may be required to register or obtain a license with
your local radiation control authority. In the US, if you intend to do work with your analyzer
in states other than your own, you may be required to register there as well. See the Safety and
Compliance Web Hub for much more information.

Regarding Safety Devices for the Open Beam Configuration:

In the US, you may be required to file for an exemption, "variance letter", with your state if
there is a requirement for a safety device that would prevent entry of an extremity into the
primary beam. If you need assistance with the exemption letter, you may contact the radiation
safety group.

Registration and Licensing FAQ

See the “Registration and Licensing FAQ” on page 433

22 Niton XL2 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo Scientific