Thermo Scientific XL3 User Manual

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Thermo Fisher Scientific Niton Analyzers

XL3 Analyzer

Version 8.0

User’s Guide (Abridged)

Refer to NITON XL3 Resource Guide for complete information

Revision A October 2011

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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.

This document is not part of any sales contract between Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. and a purchaser. This 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.

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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

Monitoring your radiation exposure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Safe Handling of Samples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Niton XL3t Radiation Profile . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Niton XL3t GOLDD Plus Radiation Profile. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Niton XL3p Radiation Profile . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Primary Radiation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Secondary Radiation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Deep and Shallow Dose. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Proper and Improper Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Emergency Response Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Startup Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Battery Installation and Charging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

The Control Panel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Startup Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Performing a System Check. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

The Data Ports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Power Port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Using the Navigation (NAV) Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Using the Tools Menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Setting the Date and Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Data Entry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

The Results Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

Chapter 3 How to Analyze . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65

General Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Chapter 4 Basic Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71

Taking a Sample Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

Analysis Modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

Chapter 5 Common Operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89

Metal Sample Prep . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89

Soil Sample Prep . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102

Preparing Mining Samples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106

Setting Up Beep Times . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107

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Contents

Sorting the Custom Element Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108

Max Measure Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109

Minumum Test Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109

Virtual Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110

Setting Display Units . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113

Adjusting the Element Range . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115

Setting the Date and Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116

Calibrating the Touch Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123

Chapter 6 Data Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .125

Viewing Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125

Viewing Fingerprints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132

Erasing Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133

Managing Libraries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138

Chapter 7 Connectivity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .145

Using Your Analyzer With Your PC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 151

Connecting From Your Analyzer to Your PC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 153

Using a USB Cable to Connect Your Analyzer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 157

Downloading Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 159

Chapter 7 Controlling Your Analyzer From Your PC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 169

Chapter 8 Learning More, Service, and Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .173

Replacing the Measurement Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 173

Registration and Licensing FAQ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 181

Storing and Transporting Your Niton XL3 Analyzer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 183

Chapter 8 Advanced Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .185

Tools Menu Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 191

NDF Files: User Data Structuring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 213

Safety Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 225

Camera and Small Spot Video. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 232

Chapter 9 Helium Purged Analysis. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .243

Chapter 9 Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 251

Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 251

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Contact Us

Americas Europe Asia

niton.eur@thermofisher.com

niton@thermofisher.com

tonEurope.support@thermofisher.com

niton.asia@thermofisher.com

NitonAsia.Support@thermofisher.com

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Manual Overview

Warnings, Cautions, and Notes

Warnings

Warnings are extremely important recommendations, violating which may result in either

njury to yourself or others, or damage to your analyzer and/or data. Warnings will always be

i 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.

Manual Overview

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 N

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

ever tamper with Test Standards. They should not be used unless they are

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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Manual Overview

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

unction. Physical Buttons will always be identified as Buttons in the text, and will always be

f 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

unction. 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

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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 N

procedures should be followed in areas of concern.

Radiation and General Safety

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.

iton analyzers are not intrinsically safe analyzers. All pertinent Hot Work

Using Your Analyzer

Safely and Effectively Using Your Analyzer

Radiation and General Safety

This section covers topics related to radiation safety and general safety when using a Thermo

cientific Niton XL3 analyzer. At a minimum all operators of the analyzer should be familiar

S 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 XL3t 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 and 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.

The Niton Model XL3p analyzer contains a radioactive sealed source. Radiation from this source is fully contained within the device when not in use and allowed to escape through the measurement window only while the user is analyzing a sample. Radiation emission is controlled by a shutter. The analyzer emits a directed radiation beam (See Figure 1 and Figure

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Using Your Analyzer

Safely and Effectively Using Your Analyzer

2) when the shutter is open during a measurement. 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.

Time

The longer you are exposed to a source of radiation the longer the radiation is able to interact

n your body and the greater the dose you receive. Dose increases in direct proportion to

i 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

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.

Exposure to Radiation

Human dose to radiation is typically measured in rem, or in one-thousandths of a rem, called

illirem (mrem), 1 rem = 1000 mrem. Another unit of dose is the Sievert (Sv), 1 Sv = 100

m 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 XL3t 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.

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Using Your Analyzer

Safely and Effectively Using Your Analyzer

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:

• plastic (or similarly low density) samples,

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

• samples that are smaller than the analysis window.

Shown in Table 1are 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.

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

Monitoring your radiation exposure

Table 2. Annual Occupational Dose Limits for Radiation Workers

(Source: Code of Federal Regulations Title 10, Part 20)

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.

* 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 XL3t Analyzer Safely

The Niton XL3t analyzer is designed to be safe to operate provided that it is used in

ccordance with manufacturer's instructions. Under conditions of normal use, monitored

a 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 XL3t, 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

ates. The secondary beam, or scattered beam, has much lower dose rates.

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Using Your Analyzer

Monitoring your radiation exposure

Figure 2. Primary Beam

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Using Your Analyzer

Monitoring your radiation exposure

Figure 3. Secondary (Scattered) Beam

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Using Your Analyzer

Monitoring your radiation exposure

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 4. The X-ray Beam Indicator Lights

Handle and Use with Respect

Avoid holding the front of the analyzer when the x-ray tube is energized and the shutter is

pen. Never point the instrument at yourself or anyone else when the shutter is open and the

o 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 XL3

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

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Avoid Over-Exposures

Direct contact with the window could result in overexposures in the times indicated inTable 4 below.

Table 4. Potential Exposure Limit Times

Location of Dose Limit Time to Reach Limit

Using Your Analyzer

Safe Handling of Samples

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

g below the knee. Whole Body is defined by the NRC as the head, trunk (including

le male gonads), arms above the elbow, or legs above the knee.

*Based on maximum deep dose rate and US exposure limit.

Safe Handling of Samples

As mentioned many times in this chapter, never place any part of your body in the path of the

-ray beam. There is always a safe way to handle samples whether they are small, irregularly

x shaped, or of low density. Never look into the path of the primary beam.

5 rem (50 mSv) 2.1 minutes

50 rem (500 mSv) 0.95 minutes

0.1 rem (1 mSv) 2.5 seconds*

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.

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Using Your Analyzer

Safe Handling of Samples

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.

Low Density Materials (such as plastics).

X-rays are attenuated more through denser materials and less through low density materials

uch as plastic. This causes higher dose rates in the scattered radiation. If you are frequently

s handling low density samples, you should consider the use of test stands, backscatter shields, or the equivalent.

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Niton XL3t Radiation Profile

Radiation Meter Information

Model: Bicron MicroRem

SN: 2057

Cal Due: 10/10/2009

Background Radiation Level

<0.01 mr/hr

Table 1-4 - Niton XL3t Radiation Profile - Scatter Measurements - mRem/hr

Using Your Analyzer

Niton XL3t Radiation Profile

kV uA Range Substrate

EM, GM, S, T, IP, PM, DA, M, E, P (Main

50 40

20 100 S, P, T, M, E (Low Filter) Aluminum 0.015 0.01 0.01

20 100 S, P, T, M, E (Low Filter) Stainless 0.015 0.01 0.01

20 100 S, P, T, M, E (Low Filter) Plastic 0.13 0.015 0.015

20 100 S, P, T, M, E (Low Filter) Soil 0.015 0.015 0.015

15 100 IP, EM (Low Filter) Aluminum 0.015 0.015 0.015

15 100 IP, EM (Low Filter) Stainless 0.015 0.015 0.015

Filter)

S, T, M, E (High Filter)

EM, GM, S, T, IP, PM, DA, M, E, P (Main Filter)

S, T, M, E (High Filter)

* GM = General Metals, EM = Electronics Metals, DA = Dental Alloy, PM = Precious

etals, M = Mining, S = Soil, E = Exploration, IP = Industrial Paint, T = Thin Sample,

M P = Plastic

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

Plastic 40 3.5 2

Soil 8 0.4 0.07

Max @ 5cm

Max @

30 cm

Max @

Trigger

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Using Your Analyzer

Niton XL3t Radiation Profile

Table 1-5 - Niton XL3t Radiation Profile - Scatter Measurements - µS

kV uA Range Substrate

M, GM, S, T, IP, PM, DA, M, E (P (Main

50 40

20 100 S, P, T, M, E (Low Filter) Aluminum 0.15 0.1 0.1

20 100 S, P, T, M, E (Low Filter) Stainless 0.15 0.1 0.1

20 100 S, P, T, M, E (Low Filter) Plastic 1.3 0.15 0.15

20 100 S, P, T, M, E (Low Filter) Soil 0.15 0.15 0.15

15 100 IP, EM (Low Filter) Aluminum 0.15 0.15 0.15

15 100 IP, EM (Low Filter) Stainless 0.15 0.15 0.15

Filter)

S, T, M, E (High Filter)

EM, GM, S, T, IP, PM, DA, M, E (P (Main Filter)

S, T, M, E (High Filter)

Notes:

catter 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. Scatter Measurements off various substrates - Dose Rates in µSv/hr * GM = General Metals, EM = Electronics Metals, DA = Dental Alloy, PM = Precious

Metals, M = Mining, S = Soil, E = Exploration, IP = Industrial Paint, T = Thin Sample,

P = Plastic

Plastic 400 35 20

Soil 80 4 0.7

v/hr

Max @ 5cm

Max @

30 cm

Max @

Trigger

14 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo Scientific

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Table 1-6 Niton XL3t Radiation Profile - In Beam Measurements - Rem/hr

Using Your Analyzer

Niton XL3t Radiation Profile

kV uA Range

M, GM, S, T, IP, PM, DA, M, E, P (Main

50 40

20 100 S, P, T, M, E (Low Filter) 150 3200 0.52 0.05

15 100 IP, EM (Low Filter) 14.0 1100 0.43 0.042

Filter)

S, T, M, E (High Filter)

In Beam Measurements - Dose Rates in Rem/hr

GM = General Metals, EM = Electronics Metals, DA = Dental Alloy, PM = Precious

Metals, M = Mining, S = Soil, E = Exploration, IP = Industrial Paint, T = Thin Sample, P = Plastic 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.

Contact Deep

110 410 8.4 1.3

Contact Shallow

5cm

Deep

Shallow

Table 1-7 Niton XL3t Radiation Profile - In Beam Measurements - mSv/hr

kV uA Range

M, GM, S, T, IP, PM, DA, M, E, P (Main

50 40

Filter)

S, T, M, E (High Filter)

Contact Deep

1100 4,100 84.0 13

Contact Shallow

5cm

Deep

30 cm

30cm

Shallow

20 100 S, P, T, M, E (Low Filter) 1500 32000 5.2 0.50

15 100 IP, EM (Low Filter) 140 11000 4.3 0.42

Notes: In beam dose rates were measured using thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs) or Opti-

cally Stimulated Luminescent Dosimeters (OSL). In Beam Measurements - Dose Rates in mSv/hr * GM = General Metals, EM = Electronics Metals, DA = Dental Alloy, PM = Precious

Metals, M = Mining, S = Soil, E = Exploration, IP = Industrial Paint, T = Thin Sample, P = Plastic 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.

Thermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 15

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Using Your Analyzer

Niton XL3t GOLDD Plus Radiation Profile

Table 1-8 - Niton XL3t GOLDD Plus Radiation Profile - In Beam Measurements - mSv/hr

kV uA Range

M, MC, P, TA, PP (Main) M, S, T

50 40

50 40 GM, PM, M, S, IP (Main)

20 100

15 133.3

8 200

E (High)

EM, P, TA, M, S, T (Low) 690 19000 190 9.2

GM (Low) 240 13000 50 2.3

GM, P, M (Light) 0.30 17000 0.10 <0.003

Notes:

SAMPLE TYPES (MODES)

* GM=General Metals, M=Mining, EM=Electronics Metals, S=Soils, PM=Precious Metals,

IP=Industrial Paint (Action lead Paint & Quantify lead Paint), MC=Metal Coatings,

PP=Painted Products, P=Plastics, TG=Test All Geo (soil and mining), TA=Test All

(consumer products), T=Thin 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.

Contact Deep

440 1300 74 5.3

1500 3800 360 22

Contact Shallow

5cm

Deep

Table 1-9 - Niton XL3t GOLDD Plus Radiation Profile - In Beam Measurements - Rem/hr

kV uA Range

Contact Deep

Contact Shallow

5cm

Deep

30cm

Deep

30cm

Deep

50 40

50 40 GM, PM, M, S, IP (Main)

20 100

15 133.3

8 200

16 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo Scientific

EM, MC, P, TA, PP (Main) M, S, T (High)

44 130 7.4 0.53

150 380 36 2.2

EM, P, TA, M, S, T (Low) 69 1900 19 0.92

GM (Low) 24 1300 5.0 0.23

GM, P, M (Light) 0.030 1700 0.010 <0.0003

Notes: *SAMPLE TYPES (MODES) GM=General Metals, M=Mining, EM=Electronics Metals, S=Soils, PM=Precious Metals,

IP=Industrial Paint (Action lead Paint & Quantify lead Paint), MC=Metal Coatings,

PP=Painted Products, P=Plastics, TG=Test All Geo (soil and mining), TA=Test All

(consumer products), T=Thin 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.

Page 25

Using Your Analyzer

Niton XL3t GOLDD Plus Radiation Profile

Table 1-10 - Niton XL3t GOLDD Plus Radiation Profile - Scatter Measurements - mRem/hr

kV uA Range Substrate Max @ 5cm

EM, MC, P, TA, PP

50 40

(Main) M, S, T

Steel 0.14 <0.01 <0.01

(High)

EM, MC, P, TA, PP

50 40

(Main) M, S, T

Aluminum 2 <0.01 <0.01

(High)

EM, MC, P, TA, PP

50 40

(Main) M, S, T

Soil 2 0.04 <0.01

(High)

EM, MC, P, TA, PP

50 40

(Main) M, S, T

Plastic 10 0.45 6

(High)

50 40

GM, PM, M, S, IP (Main)

Steel 0.3 <0.01 <0.01

Aluminum 4 0.01 0.01

Max @ 30

Max @

Trigger

50 40

20 100

GM, PM, M, S, IP (Main)

EM, P, TA, M, S, T (Low)

Soil 4 0.09 <0.01

Soil <0.01 <0.01 <0.01

Plastic 0.07 <0.01 <0.01

15 133.3 GM (Low) Steel <0.01 <0.01 <0.01

Thermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 17

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Using Your Analyzer

Niton XL3t GOLDD Plus Radiation Profile

Table 1-10 - Niton XL3t GOLDD Plus Radiation Profile - Scatter Measurements - mRem/hr

15 133.3 GM (Low) Aluminum <0.01 <0.01 <0.01

<0.01 (no detectable scatter radiation) at

200 GM, P, M (Light)

any location for steel, aluminum, soil, or plastic sample types

Notes:

SAMPLE TYPES (MODES)

* GM=General Metals, M=Mining, EM=Electronics Metals, S=Soils, PM=Precious Metals,

IP=Industrial Paint (Action lead Paint & Quantify lead Paint), MC=Metal Coatings,

PP=Painted Products, P=Plastics, TG=Test All Geo (soil and mining), TA=Test All

(consumer products), T=Thin

Table 1-11 - Niton XL3t GOLDD Plus Radiation Profile - Scatter Measurements - µSv/hr

kV uA Range Substrate Max @ 5cm

Max @ 30

Max @ Trigger

EM, MC, P, TA, PP

50 40

(Main) M, S, T

Steel 1.4 <0.1 <0.1

(High)

EM, MC, P, TA, PP

50 40

(Main) M, S, T

Aluminum 20 <0.1 <0.1

(High)

EM, MC, P, TA, PP

50 40

(Main) M, S, T

Soil 20 0.4 <0.1

(High)

EM, MC, P, TA, PP

50 40

(Main) M, S, T

Plastic 100 4.5 60

(High)

50 40

GM, PM, M, S, IP (Main)

Steel 3 <0.1 <0.1

50 40

18 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo Scientific

GM, PM, M, S, IP (Main)

Aluminum 40 0.1 0.1

Page 27

Niton XL3t GOLDD Plus Radiation Profile

Table 1-11 - Niton XL3t GOLDD Plus Radiation Profile - Scatter Measurements - µSv/hr

50 40

M, PM, M, S, IP

(Main)

Soil 40 0.9 <0.1

Using Your Analyzer

20 100

EM, P, TA, M, S, T (Low)

Soil <0.1 <0.1 <0.1

Plastic 0.7 <0.1 <0.1

15 133.3 GM (Low) Steel <0.1 <0.1 <0.1

15 133.3 GM (Low) Aluminum <0.1 <0.1 <0.1

<0.1 (no detectable scatter radiation) at

8 200 GM, P, M (Light)

any location for steel, aluminum, soil, or plastic sample types

Note *

SAMPLE TYPES (MODES)

GM=General Metals, M=Mining, EM=Electronics Metals, S=Soils, PM=Precious Metals,

P=Industrial Paint (Action lead Paint & Quantify lead Paint), MC=Metal Coatings,

PP=Painted Products, P=Plastics, TG=Test All Geo (soil and mining), TA=Test All

(consumer products), T=Thin

Thermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 19

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Using Your Analyzer

Niton XL3p Radiation Profile

Table 1-12 - Niton XL3p Radiation Profile - In Beam Measurements

Distance From Window Dose Rate (mSv/hr) Dose Rate (mrem/hr)

5 cm 0.45 45

30 cm 0.03 3.0

100 cm 0.003 0.3

Table 1-13 - Niton XL3p Radiation Profile - Scatter Measurements - mSv/hr

Location

Max Scatter @ 5cm from Snout (A’)

Plastic Substrate

0.06 0.03 0.018 0.01 0.0042

Wood Substrate

Soil Substrate

Aluminum Substrate

Steel Substrate

Max Scatter @ Trigger (B) 0.0038 0.002 0.0015 0.0048 0.0003

Table 1-14 - Niton XL3p Radiation Profile - Scatter Measurements - mRem/hr

Location

Max Scatter @ 5cm from Snout (A’)

Plastic Substrate

6.0 3.0 1.8 1.0 0.42

Wood Substrate

Soil Substrate

Aluminum Substrate

Steel Substrate

Max Scatter @ Trigger (B) 0.38 0.2 0.15 0.48 0.03

20 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo Scientific

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Using Your Analyzer

Niton XL3p Radiation Profile

Figure 5. Primary and Secondary Dose Locations (Not to Scale)

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Using Your Analyzer

Primary Radiation

Niton XL3t and XL3t GOLDD

Primary radiation is radiation that is produced by the analyzer and emitted out through the 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 density and/or thickness. Caution should be taken when analyzing samples that are small, thin, and/or low in density as they may allow much more of the primary beam to escape. In-beam primary radiation dose rates are listed in Table 1-6, 1-7, 1-8, 1-9, and their location identified relative to the analyzer in Figure 4 as Dose Point C.

Niton XL3p

Primary radiation is radiation that is produced by the analyzer and emitted out through the

easurement window. Individuals should never place any part of their body in the primary

m beam path when the shutter is open. There should always be a sample in contact with the measurement window when the shutter is open. The sample will absorb most of the primary-beam radiation unless it is smaller than the instrument's measurement window or of low density and/or thickness. Caution should be taken when analyzing samples that are small, thin, and/or low in density as they may allow much more of the primary beam to escape. In-beam primary radiation dose rates are listed in Table 1-6, 1-7, 1-8, 1-9, and their location identified relative to the analyzer inFigure 4 as Dose Point C.

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 density samples such as steel will emit the lowest levels as they absorb most primary and secondary radiations. Lower density samples such as aluminum, wood, and especially plastic, will produce higher levels of secondary radiation.

Niton XL3t and XL3t GOLDD

Secondary radiation dose rates are listed in Tables 1-4, 1-5, 1-10, and 1-11, for a few common sample types over a wide range of densities.

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Niton XL3p

Secondary radiation dose rates are listed in Tables 1-13 and 1-14 for a few common sample types over a wide range of densities.

Holding Samples

The operator is reminded that one should never hold samples during analysis, doing so will

esult in higher than necessary exposure to secondary radiation and could expose the operator

r directly to the much higher primary-beam dose rates.

Deep and Shallow Dose

You will find in the tables that shallow dose rates are listed for some dose points. All dose rates listed in the In-Beam Primary Radiation 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.

Using Your Analyzer

Deep and Shallow Dose

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

rea to prevent access, use, and/or removal by unauthorized individuals. Storage requirements

a 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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Using Your Analyzer

Proper and Improper Operation

Transportation

Niton XL3t and XL3t GOLDD

There are no X-ray tube specific US Department of Transportation (DOT) or International Air Transport Association (IATA) radiation regulations regarding shipping the Niton XL3t analyzer. It is recommended that you ship the analyzert 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.

Niton XL3p

For Thermo Fisher Scientific, Niton Analyzers (Niton Analyzers), in the United States, the

overnment agency that has primary authority and regulations which apply to transportation

g is the Department of Transportation (DOT) (Code of Federal Regulations 49 Parts 100 to

185).

In addition, the EPA, OSHA, and the NRC also have regulations that touch on the transportation of hazardous substances.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has recommendations that every major air carrier has incorporated into their policies for the air transport of hazardous substances.

The enforcement of DOTregulations is carried out by the Department of Transportation, the Federal Aviation Administration, the Federal Highway Administration, the Federal Railroad Administration, the Coast Guard, and Customs and Border Protection. State agencies may also enforce state DOT regulations.

The major aspects of the regulations include:

• "training to recognize hazards and how to safely deal with hazardous substances,

• "classification and identification of packages to inform of hazards,

• "protective packaging to safely transport hazardous materials,

• "hazard communication to inform personnel of hazards in a package,

and

• "incident reporting to inform regulators of incidents.

As part of shipping hazardous substances, you should be trained in:

• "a general awareness and a familiarity with the general provisions of the DOT and hazardous materials regulations,

• "training that is function specific and be applicable to the daily work performed,

• "the recognition and identification of hazardous substances,

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Using Your Analyzer

Proper and Improper Operation

• "the specific requirements for functions performed,

• "security measures to keep a package secure.

• "safety issues as related to safe handling and hazard communication.

• "knowledge of emergency response information, self-protective procedures, and accident prevention procedures.

Employers are responsible for providing the proper training (every three years for DOT) to employees, testing employee knowledge, and record keeping.

The DOT Hazardous Material Regulations set the criteria for determining the hazard class and the proper shipping name for hazardous materials. The Hazard Classes as follows:

Class

1. Explosives

2. Gases

3. Flammable and Combustible Liquids

4. Flammable solids, combustible materials, and dangerous when wet materials

5. Oxidizers and organic peroxides

6. Toxic materials and infectious substances

7. Radioactive Materials

8. Corrosive Materials

9. Miscellaneous dangerous goods

Niton analyzers with radioisotopes are Hazard Class 7. The Hazard Class of the material being transported tells you which Parts of the regulations are required.

A UN number is assigned to each type of hazardous material. It is the letters "UN" followed by a four digit numerical code, which allows emergency responders to identify the chemical being shipped. The UN number for Niton analyzers is "UN 2911".

There is also an official name designation for Niton Analyzers called the Proper Shipping Name. The proper Shipping Name for the Niton Analyzers is "Radioactive material, excepted package-instruments and articles".

A reportable quantity (RQ) is listed in DOT regulations for each hazardous material (e.g., each radioactive isotope). If you are shipping more than the reportable quantity in a package, that package must be marked clear and legibly with the letters "RQ". The Niton XL3p analyzer contains a 30 mCi (1.11 GBq) Am-241 source and is therefore considered a reportable quantity requiring the RQ marking when being transported.

Thermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 25

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Using Your Analyzer

Proper and Improper Operation

Also, the quantity of Am-241 that is used in a Model XL3p Analyzer requires a special form certification for transport as an excepted package. This Special Form certificate must accompany the instrument during shipment. Thermo Fisher Scientific will provide the Special Form certificate for any analyzer with Am-241.”

The type of protective packaging used is dependent on the nature of the material to be packaged. All packaging must be designed to prevent a release of hazardous material during normal transportation or storage of the material. The classification of package used for Niton Analyzers is designated as an "Excepted Package". Always ship the analyzer in its original plastic case to ensure that the packaging used meets the regulatory requirements for an Excepted Package.

Shipments of radioactive materials must have proper Labeling and Marking.

Niton analyzers have a Marking requirement (i.e., UN number and RQ if applicable), but not a Labeling requirement (i.e., diamond shaped hazmat labels), and vehicles transporting these analyzers are not required to have "Placards".

When reading the DOT regulations, you will find the following information useful.

Thermo Fisher Scientific, Niton Analyzers are shipped:

• "Under the proper shipping name "Radioactive material, excepted package-instruments or articles" in accordance with 49 CFR 173.424,

• "with the radiation level at 10 cm from the unpacked instrument surface less than 10 mrem/hr (0.1 mSv/hr) “ Note A Niton Analyzer in proper condition will be less than 0.5 mrem/hr (0.005 mSv/hr) at 10 cm,

• "with the radiation level at the package surface less than 0.5 mrem/hr (0.005 mSv/hr)” Note A Niton Analyzer in proper condition will be less than 0.05 mrem/hr (0.0005 mSv/hr) at the surface of the case,

• "with all radioactive sources as "solid", "sealed sources"

• "Am-241 listed in A1 column of 173.435 (270 Ci) (Special Form capsule)

• "with the package design meeting the requirements of 173.410

• "package marked with "UN2911"

• "with the Am-241 source, the package is marked with "RQ"

• "meeting the 173.424 criteria for labeling and marking requirements

For any shipment: Include in the package a current copy of the instrument Leak Test.

Include a list of emergency numbers in the package.

For Am-241, include the Special Form Certificate in the package.

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Using Your Analyzer

Proper and Improper Operation

Always ship in supplied plastic case, with the case secured against accidental opening. Always ship with the battery disconnected.

When shipping by air: Ship with the proper IATA marking (See IATA Dangerous Goods regulations Figure 10.7.8.A), UN 2911, and proper shipping name.

"RQ" marking and "dangerous goods declaration" are required.

When shipping by Ground: Ship under proper marking "UN2911"

"RQ" marking and shipping papers are required (Note: a dangerous goods declaration form can be used to meet the shipping paper requirement).

A "Dangerous Goods Declaration" can be obtained by the air carrier that you will be using. Instructions can also be obtained from the same source.

Carefully follow the directions given by the air carrier. Several typed copies will be required.

Shipping papers contain all of the same information as a Dangerous Goods Declaration, but do not have a specified format for that information.

At a minimum, a properly prepared shipping paper clearly identifies the hazardous substance by its proper shipping name, hazard class and division, UN identification number, packing group (if applicable), and total quantity. It also has consigner information, consignee information, and a shipper's declaration that the package is in compliance with the DOT regulations.

The elements of hazard warning information are communicated through shipping documents, packaging markings, and written emergency response information.

The DOT & FAA Hazardous Materials Regulations require the carrier to report all incidents involving hazardous materials.

An "incident" involves the unintended release of hazardous materials (Am-241), suspected radioactive contamination, if the general public is evacuated for an hour or more, or the flight pattern or routine of an aircraft is altered.

For any "incident", contact the Company Radiation Safety Officer or Responsible Party and the state radiation control program.

Any "incident" needs to reported to the:

Hazardous Materials Information Center

1-800-467-4922

Mon-Fri 9AM-5PM Eastern

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Using Your Analyzer

Proper and Improper Operation

Leak Tests (Niton XL3p Only)

The Niton XL3p Series analyzer contains a radioactive source that must be periodically leak tested. The purpose of leak testing is to verify the integrity of the source encapsulation. A leak test sample is obtained by wiping exterior surfaces of the device with moderate pressure using a cotton swab, filter paper, or whichever wiping media is supplied by the analysis laboratory. Leak test samples are then typically analyzed at a laboratory, although some device users have the equipment and licensed authority to perform this analysis

Unless specified otherwise by your local authority or radioactive material license, the gauge must be leak tested at intervals not to exceed 6 months. In the US, leak test samples may be acquired by any end-user, however the analysis of the sample must be performed by an organization licensed to do so. If you are using a vendor to perform the laboratory analysis of the leak test sample, they will send you a leak test kit which comes with complete instructions for performing the test. These vendors will also typically send you a reminder when it is time to perform the next leak test on your instrument. Please follow the test kit instructions carefully, and promptly mail the test samples to the laboratory. They will send you a leak test certificate soon after. Keep one copy of the leak test certificate with the device at all times (i.e., in the case) and another copy safely on file.

Figure 6. Wipe Test Locations

28 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo Scientific

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CAUTION REMOVE THE BATTERY WHILE PERFORMING A WIPE TEST TO BE

SURE THAT THE SHUTTERS ARE NOT OPEN DURING THIS PROCEDURE!

Lost or Stolen Instrument

THIS PAGE CONTAINS EMERGENCY CONTACT INFORMATION THAT

HOULD BE AVAILABLE TO THE OPERATOR AT ALL TIMES.

If the Niton XL3t 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

Using Your Analyzer

Proper and Improper Operation

Major 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:

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.

If the instrument is severely damaged:

. Perform the same steps as described above for minor damage. There will be no radiation

1 hazard as long as the battery is removed from the instrument.

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

Thermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 29

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Using Your Analyzer

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): (800) 875-1578

Europe

Asia

Additional Radiation Emergency #'s: (978) 790-8269 or (617) 901-3125

Outside the USA - Local Niton Service Center:___________________

Niton Analyzers Europe

unich, Germany

Phone: +49 89 3681 380

Fax: +49 89 3681 3830

Email: niton.eur@thermofisher.com

Niton Analyzers Asia

Hong Kong

Phone: +852 2869-6669

Fax: +852 2869-6665

Email: niton.asia@thermofisher.com

Registration and Licensing

30 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo Scientific

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As a user of a Niton XL3 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

here is a requirement for a safety device that would prevent entry of an extremity into the

t primary beam. If you need assistance with the exemption letter, you may contact the radiation safety group.

Registration and Licensing FAQ

Using Your Analyzer

Emergency Response Information

Thermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 31

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Using Your Analyzer

Startup Procedure

Unpacking and Preparing Your Niton XRF Analyzer

WARNING The nose of the analyzer should not be touched during sample testing and

calibration. If an ESD event occurs during measurement, the instrument may terminate the testing in progress and automatically reset to Log On screen. Any test data collected prior to reset will be lost and the testing may have to be repeated.

Figure 7. Populated Analyzer Case

• Inspect the shipping carton for signs of damage such as crushed or water damaged packaging. Immediately notify the shipping company and Thermo Fisher Scientific, in the United States, toll free, at (800) 875-1578, or outside the United States, at +1-978-670-7460, if there is any visible damage to the shipping container or any of its contents.

• Open the packing carton. If your analyzer is not packed in its carrying case, please call Thermo Fisher Scientific immediately, in the United States, toll free, at (800) 875-1578, or outside the United States, at +1-978-670-7460.

• Verify the contents of the shipping container against the enclosed packing list. If there are any discrepancies between the actual contents of the shipping container and the enclosed packing list, please notify Thermo Fisher Scientific immediately, in the United States, toll free, at (800) 875-1578, or outside the United States, at +1-978-670-7460.

• Open the carrying case and visually inspect the analyzer for damage before removing it from the case. Contact the freight carrier and Thermo Fisher Scientific if you find any damage to the case or its contents.

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Using Your Analyzer

Battery Installation and Charging

• Save the shipping carton and all packing materials. Store them in a safe, dry area for reuse the next time that you ship the analyzer.

Figure 8. The Thermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer Overview

Battery Installation and Charging

Installing or Replacing The Battery Pack

1. Slide back the catch on the bottom of your analyzer’s pistol grip and drop the battery out nto your hand.

2. Place the old battery aside and slide the new battery up into the cavity in the bottom of

the pistol grip. The battery is keyed, and will only insert fully one way.

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Using Your Analyzer

Battery Installation and Charging

Figure 9. Rear and Side of Battery Pack Showing Key

AUTION Do not force the battery into the cavity!

3. Press in until the latch resets.

Recharging The Battery Pack

Fully recharging a battery pack takes approximately 2 hours.

1. Remove the battery pack from the analyzer.

2. Place the battery pack upside down into the charger. The battery pack is keyed, and will

only fit into the charger fully one way. If your battery pack is resting on the back of the back of the charger rather than sliding all the way to the bottom, remove the battery pack, turn it around, and re-insert it into the charger.

CAUTION Do not force the battery into the charger!

3. The red light is on when the charger is plugged in. This is the power indicator light.

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Figure 10. Power On

Using Your Analyzer

Battery Installation and Charging

. The yellow light indicates that the battery pack is currently being charged.

Figure 11. Charging

5. The green light indicates that the battery pack has finished charging and is ready for use.

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Using Your Analyzer

Battery Installation and Charging

Figure 12. Charge Completed N

a fault with the battery pack or charger.

ote If there is a fully seated battery pack in the charger and only the red light is on, there is

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Using Your Analyzer

Battery Installation and Charging

Figure 13. Battery Pack in the Charger

AUTION Do not store battery packs or charger in direct sunlight.

C CAUTION Do not let the battery pack recharge for excessive periods of time.

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Using Your Analyzer

The Control Panel

The control panel is located on the analyzer’s top housing, directly below the Touch Screen. The control panel consists of a 4 Way Touch Pad, an Interlock Button, and two Control Buttons, one on each side. Using either the control panel or the touch screen you may navigate through all of the analyzer’s screens and menus. You can control the movement of the screen cursor by pressing the 4 Way Touch Pad in one of four directions to highlight each of the menu options. The Clear/Enter button to the right of the 4 Way Touch Pad is used to select highlighted menu options. The On/Off/Escape Button both controls the power to the analyzer and serves as an "escape" button. When the On/Off/Escape Button is pushed and immediately released, it functions as an "escape", and brings you back to the Main Menu from the current screen in the menu system.

Figure 14. The Control Panel

To turn your analyzer on, push and hold the On/Off/Escape Button until the Touch Screen comes on. To turn off your analyzer, push the On/Off/Escape Button and hold it down until the Touch Screen shuts off. CAUTION If for any reason your analyzer does not shut off normally, removing the battery will shut it down safely.

You also have the option of operating the analyzer, including navigating the menu system, by using the built in Touch Screen. To select a menu option, tap on the icon once. The touch screen icons have the same functionality as the 4 Way Touch Pad, the On/Off/Escape Button, and the Enter Button. This User's Guide will refer to the process of choosing a course of action by selecting an icon from a menu, either using the Touch Screen or using the control panel buttons, as “selecting.”

Selecting the Return Icon works everywhere throughout the User Interface to bring you back to the previous menu from the current menu in the menu system. Use the On/off/escape button to return to the Main Menu.

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The LCD Touch Screen

The LCD Touch Screen on your Niton XL3 Analyzer is designed to swing up and down to different angles for ease in viewing and interacting with your analyzer. The LCD Touch Screen is connected to your analyzer along the base of the screen, right above the Control panel. The screen is not designed to separate from the analyzer, but can be adjusted to any arbitrary angle between zero degrees - that is, flush with the analyzer - and 85 degrees, which is almost perpendicular. The LCD Touch Screen will stay at any given angle between these extremes until moved to a different angle. When in closed position, the screen is secured by a catch at the top center of the screen housing.

Using Your Analyzer

The Control Panel

Figure 15. Niton XL3 Analyzer Showing LCD Screen Tilted.

To raise the LCD Touch Screen, disengage the catch at the top-center of the LCD Touch Screen housing and gently pull the screen towards you until it is at the best angle for your use.

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Using Your Analyzer

Startup Procedure

To close the LCD Touch Screen, gently push away from you along the top edge of the screen housing. The screen will swing down until the catch solidly engages with an audible click. Note The LCD Touch Screen cannot be removed from your Niton XL3 analyzer. Removing or attempting to remove the LCD Touch Screen will damage your analyzer and void your warranty. Note Always close your LCD Touch Screen before storing or transporting your Niton XL3 analyzer.

Startup Procedure

To turn on the analyzer, depress the On/off/escape button on the control panel until the

ouch Screen comes on.

On startup, the screen will show by a Start Screen which will automatically count down from 4 to 0 in increments of one second.

Figure 16. Logon Screen

When the startup is complete, the Start Screen will be replaced by the Logon Screen (see Figure 15). Tap anywhere on this screen to continue.

The Logon Screen will be replaced by a Warning Screen, see Figure 16, advising you that this analyzer produces radiation when the lights are flashing. You must acknowledge this warning by selecting the Yes button before logging on. Selecting the No button will return you to the Logon Screen.

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Using Your Analyzer

Startup Procedure

Figure 17. Warning Screen

fter selecting the Yes button, the Virtual Numeric Keypad becomes available for you to log

A onto the analyzer.

Figure 18. Virtual Numeric Keypad

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Using Your Analyzer

Performing a System Check

Select your 4 digit security code, followed by the Enter button. The default password is 1-2-3-4, followed by the Enter button. If you enter an incorrect number, you can use the Backspace button to backspace over it, or use the Clear button to clear the field. After you have completed the log on procedure, the word "USER" will appear on the bottom of the screen, then the Main Menu will appear. Note that security codes are editable. Please see

Passwords and User Privileges for instructions on creating user-definable passwords.

Check the date/time. The time should be set correctly for accurate and verifiable record keeping (Setting the Date and Time).

te Your analyzer can be stored and operated safely in temperatures from minus 5º C (23º

F) to 50º C (122º F). You will not be able to take a measurement if the analyzer overheats. If it is hot to the touch, you should allow it to cool before testing.

Performing a System Check

Figure 19. System Check Menu Path

elect the System Check Icon on the Main Menu to perform a system check. Thermo

S Scientific recommends that you perform a system check once every working day, as part of your normal startup procedure, after allowing a minute or so for the analyzer to warm up.

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Using Your Analyzer

Performing a System Check

Figure 20. System Check in Progress

hile performing the system check, your screen will show a progress bar indicating the

W progress of the check. When it is done, the screen will show a 100% completion as in Figure 20 below.

Figure 21. System Check Completed

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Using Your Analyzer

Performing a System Check

If you see any result other than "System OK", perform another system check. If the result is still not "System OK", please notify Thermo Scientific Service at 800-875-1578.

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Calibrating the Touch Screen

Using Your Analyzer

Performing a System Check

Figure 22. Touch Screen Calibration Menu Path

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Using Your Analyzer

Performing a System Check

Select the Calibrate Touch Screen icon to re-calibrate the analyzer's touch screen display. This procedure establishes the display boundaries for the touch screen interface.

1. Select the Touch Screen icon.

2. The display will show a message asking you to confirm whether or not you want to

calibrate your Touch Screen. Select the Yes button.

3. The display will show the message: "Calibrate Touch Screen". There will be a small cross

in the upper left-hand corner of the display.

4. Tap on this cross with the stylus, and the cross will disappear and reappear in the upper

right-hand corner of the screen.

5. Tap on the cross again, and it will reappear in the lower right-hand corner of the screen.

6. Tap on the cross again and it will reappear in the lower left-hand corner of the screen.

7. Tap on the cross once more, and you will be presented with a Confirmation Screen.

8. Select the Yes Button to confirm that the parameters are good. Select the No Button to

start the process again.

9. Once you have confirmed the parameters, the System Menu will be displayed. The screen

is now calibrated.

Figure 23. The System Menu

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Calibrating the Touch Screen Without Using the Touch Screen

If the touch screen becomes misaligned, you may need to use the buttons below the screen to complete this process. There are 2 single buttons and a 4 way switch located to the rear of the display screen. The button at the left is the On/Off/Escape button. The button to the right is the Enter button and the center keypad is a 4 Way Touch Pad.

The 4 Way Touch Pad has 4 positions, Up, Down, Left and Right. The Interlock Button is not used in this procedure.

Using Your Analyzer

Performing a System Check

Figure 24. The Control Buttons for the Niton XL3

1. Please, turn on your XRF analyzer using the On/Off button.

Note From this point please DO NOT touch the touch screen.

2. Press the Enter button. You are now at the Radiation Warning screen.

3. Using the 4 way touch pad on the on the cover of the instrument, move the cursor around

the screen by pressing the appropriate up, down, left, or right button. Please move the cursor such that the "Yes" option is highlighted in green.

4. Press the Enter button. You are now at the Enter Password Screen.

5. Move the cursor on the Virtual Numeric Keypad using the 4-way Touch Pad to the

appropriate first number in your password. Press the Enter button on the right - it has the arrow/enter key symbol on it. The first number of your password should appear in the lower left of the screen.

6. Repeat step 5 until you have entered the entire password. Then move the cursor to the

Enter Key on the Virtual Numeric Keypad and press the Enter button to enter it.

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Using Your Analyzer

Performing a System Check

7. You will now be at the Main Menu.

8. Again using the 4 Way Touch Pad, move the cursor to highlight the System icon, and

press the Enter button to select it.

9. You will now be at the System Menu.

10. From the System Menu screen, move the cursor to highlight the Touch Screen icon and press the Enter button.

11. Now move the cursor to highlight the Yes Button and press the Enter button.

12. You are now at the Touch Screen Calibration screen.

Note You must now use the touch screen for the balance of this procedure

13. In the upper left hand corner you will see a crosshair - like this: “+”. Using the stylus or a pen, tap the center of the “+”.

14. Repeat this for each “+” sign that appears, there should be one for each of the 4 corners.

15. Select the Yes Button to confirm that the parameters are good. Select the No Button to start the process again.

16. Once you have confirmed the parameters, the System Menu will be displayed. The screen is now calibrated.

Your touch screen should work properly after this and you may use normally it from this point forward. If it does not, please repeat the process.

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The Data Ports

Using Your Analyzer

The Data Ports

Figure 25. The Data Ports

USB Port

The USB Port is a communications and control port, for uploading and downloading data,

onfiguration files, and software to the analyzer.

Remote Trigger Port

The Remote Trigger Port controls the analyzer’s trigger function, for use with accessories and test stands.

Serial Port

The Serial Port is a communications and control port, for uploading and downloading data, configuration files, and software to the analyzer.

Power Port

The Power Port is used to run the analyzer under external power.

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Using Your Analyzer

Using the Navigation (NAV) Menu

The NAV Menu enables you to move between various menus and screens directly, without going through the intervening screens. Select a destination from the drop down menu and you will be brought directly to that menu or screen.

Figure 26. Accessing the NAV Menu

Using the Tools Menu

The Tools Menu enables you to perform common data-related tasks such as printing and

veraging readings. Select a task from the menu to initiate that task. The options available can

a vary depending on the selected mode.

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Using Your Analyzer

Using the Tools Menu

Figure 27. The Tools Menu Path (Main)

he Tools Menu can be accessed in two ways, and the options are different depending on the

T way you access it. The main Tools Menu is accessed by selecting the Analyze Icon from the Main Menu, then selecting the Tools button from the slide down window on the Ready to Analyze screen.

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Using Your Analyzer

Using the Tools Menu

Figure 28. The Tools Menu Path (Alt)

he alternate Tools Menu can be accessed by selecting the Data Icon from the Main Menu,

T selecting the View Data Icon from the Data Menu, then selecting the drop down Tools Menu from the View Data screen. It can also be accessed from the Analysis Screen, after the reading is saved.

Toggling Buttons and Options

Most of the buttons and options on the Tools Menu are toggles. These buttons and options on the Tools Menu change to their opposites when selected. To stop averaging, for example, select Stop Avg Fwd or Stop Avg Back from the Tools Menu as appropriate.

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Tools Menu Options (Mode Dependent)

Averaging Results

You will find the two types of result averaging here: Avg Forward

Spectra: On/Spectra: Off

Using Your Analyzer

Using the Tools Menu

You will find how to use Live Spectra here: S

Alloy Pass-Fail

You will find how to use Alloy Pass/Fail here: Set Pass/Faill

Editing and Switching Alloy Libraries

You will find how to use Alloy Libraries here: Switch Library (Main)

Enable/Disable Al

You will find how to use the Enable/Diable Al option here: Enable/Disable Al

Coatings Method

You will find how to use Coatings Method here: Coatings Method

Thickness Correction

You will find how to use Thickness Correction here: T

Enable Paint

pectrum:On/Spectrum:Off

hickness Correction

You will find how to use Enable Paint here: Enable/Disable Paint

Action Level

You will find how to use Action Level here: Action Level

Print Data

You will find how to use Print Data here: Print Data

Element Ranges

You will find how to use Element Ranges here: A

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djusting the Element Range

Page 62

Using Your Analyzer

Setting the Date and Time

Toggle He

Toggle Spot

You will find how to use Toggle He here: Enable/Disable Al

You will find how to use Small Spot here: C

Setting the Date and Time

alibrating the Spot

Figure 29. The Date and Time Menu Path

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Using Your Analyzer

Setting the Date and Time

From the System Menu, select the Date & Time icon to set the date and time as needed for different time zones, daylight savings time, or any other reason. The date and time are factory preset prior to shipping. The clock is a 24 hour clock, so add 12 to PM hours - i.e. 1:13 PM would be 13:13.

Figure 30. Setting the Date & Time

When the Date & Time icon is selected, the Date & Time Screen comes up on your analyzer’s LCD Screen. You may change the Month, Year, Date, Hour, and Minute on your analyzer.

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Using Your Analyzer

Setting the Date and Time

Changing the Month

To change the month, select the downward pointing triangle button next to the month displayed. A drop down menu will appear, listing the months of the year in order of appearance.

Changing the Year

Figure 31. Month Drop Down Menu

Select the month you want from the drop down menu, using the vertical slider button to display hidden months. The display will change to show the month you selected.

To change the year, select the downward pointing triangle button next to the year displayed. A

rop down menu will appear, listing the years in order of appearance.

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Using Your Analyzer

Setting the Date and Time

Changing the Date

Figure 32. Changing the Year

elect the year you want from the drop down menu, using the vertical slider button to display

S hidden years. The display will change to show the year you selected.

To change the date, select the date you want from the Date Selection Screen. The date you

elected will be highlighted in red, while the old date will be shown in red numbers.

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Using Your Analyzer

Setting the Date and Time

Figure 33. Selecting the Date

Changing the Hour and Minute

To change the hour, select the hour numbers. The hour numbers will be highlighted in gray.

hen select the Upwards Pointing Chevron Button to increment (increase) the hour, or the

T Downward Pointing Chevron Button to decrement (decrease) the hour.

Figure 34. Changing the Hour

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Using Your Analyzer

Setting the Date and Time

To change the minute, select the minute numbers. The minute numbers will be highlighted in gray. Then select the Upwards Pointing Chevron Button to increment (increase) the minute, or the Downward Pointing Chevron Button to decrement (decrease) the minute.

Saving Your Changes

Exiting Without Saving

Figure 35. Changing the Minute

To save your changes, select the "Save" screen Button. The display will return to the previous

creen and the Date and Time will be saved.

To exit the screen without saving changes, select the "Cancel" Screen Button. The display will return to the previous screen and the Date and Time will not be saved.

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Using Your Analyzer

Data Entry

Figure 36. The Data Entry Menu Path

he Data Entry Menu can be accessed from the Ready to Test Screen, then selecting the Data

T Entry button from the slide down window on the Ready to Test screen. The Data Entry Menu is composed of several data fields with associated buttons. How many and exactly which fields are displayed depends on the Mode the analyzer is currently in.

Entering data into these fields enables you to keep track of details about the reading, for use in later analysis and enhancing the defensibility of the readings.

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Using Your Analyzer

Data Entry

Figure 37. The Data Entry Menu Buttons

The Data Entry Menu Buttons

The Data Entry Menu Buttons each enable you to enter data into the fields in different ways.

Field Name

The Field Name is the designation of the type of data to be entered into the field. Selecting

he Field Name enables you to enter data into that field.

Virtual Keyboard Button

Selecting the Virtual Keyboard Button will bring up the Virtual Keyboard, which you can use to type data into the field.

Drop Down Menu Arrow

Selecting the Drop Down Menu Arrow enables you to select data from a list you have previously entered into the analyzer.

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Using Your Analyzer

The Results Screen

Data Field

Your data will appear in the Data Field.

Back Button

Selecting the Back Button will return you to the Main Menu.

Show Button

Selecting the Show Button will bring the slide down window up into view for access to the

ools Button or Info Button.

The Results Screen

Your analyzer will display the Results Screen throughout the duration of each reading. The Results Screen is updated regularly throughout the reading. When the reading is complete, a final screen update will appear, and your analyzer will display the final results of the measurement which has just been completed.

Figure 38. The Results Screen

The Results Screen displays the following information:

The Reading Number shows a number sequentially assigned by your analyzer in order to uniquely identify each reading. The reading number automatically increments with each successive reading.

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Using Your Analyzer

The Results Screen

The Nominal Seconds Test Duration line shows the number of nominal (source) seconds elapsing since the initiation of the reading. Nominal seconds are instrument time designed to compensate for the electronic dead-time that may occur when your analyzer is taking a measurement, and therefore tend to be a bit slower than real time.

The Mode displays the test mode in use during the measurement.

The Match/No Match line indicates whether your analyzer has found a matching alloy in it's library for the sample you have measured, and displays the name(s) of any matching alloys and the Match Number (chi squared deviation).

The Element (left) column shows the elements that have been detected in the sample.

The Concentration Level (central) column shows the concentration levels of the corresponding elements in percentages.

The Confidence (right) column displays the 2 sigma (95%) confidence interval for the corresponding elements.

Match Number

If there are too many elements detected to fit onto a single screen, you can see the balance of the elements and their results (as in figure 3-16) by pressing the down arrow of the 4-way touch pad. To see previous results, use the left arrow of the 4-way touch pad. To go forward to later readings, use the right arrow of the 4-way touch pad.

The Match Number is a rating of confidence in the identification of the alloy. The Match

umber ranges from 0.0 to 10.0, with 0.0 being a perfect match. Any number greater than

4.0 gives a result of No Match by default, although you can change this match threshold. Any

number less than 2.0 is considered a Good Match, and can usually be brought closer to 0.0 with longer testing times. Numbers between 2.0 and 3.0 can be considered Probable Matches, and numbers between 3.0 and 4.0 as Possible Matches, often having one or more elements out of spec.

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Using Your Analyzer

The Results Screen

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How to Analyze

To analyze samples, from the main menu select sample type, and then click on the appropriate Mode icon. Once in the Selection Screen you have a number of sub-modes to select from. depending on how your instrument is calibrated. See the Example Path below.

How to Analyze

Figure 39. The Metals Analysis Menu Path (Example)

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How to Analyze

General Analysis

Element Ranges and Lists

From the Element Range Screen, select the Element List Button to display the Element List for the Range you want to use. This list shows the elements that the Range is best designed to detect. See Adjusting the Element Range for details.

Figure 40. The Element Range Screen

General Analysis

Note Ea

initiating measurements with the system. Users are strongly urged to attend the Thermo Scientific Niton XRF Analyzer Radiation Safety and Operations Training courses offered regularly, or the web-based trainings. For more information, visit www.thermo.com/niton.

PREPARATORY TASKS

Attach a charged battery to the analyzer and turn it on. Follow the screen instructions and “Log On” as the operator using either the default password or a custom one as designated by the user in an NDU file.

Wait five (5) minutes before using the analyzer, allowing the instrument electronics to stabilize.

Verify that the date is set properly for data tracking purposes.

ch user should read the Thermo Scientific Niton XL3 User’s Guide carefully before

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How to Analyze

General Analysis

From the Main Menu, select the System icon, then the Specs icon. The date will be displayed for verification. If the date is incorrect, correct it prior to proceeding. This can be done by “Closing” out of the Specs screen and selecting the Date & Time icon. Detailed information on this procedure is available in Setting the Date and Time.

(Optional) Connect the analyzer to a computer via the included serial cable, USB cable, or Bluetooth™ wireless module. (Consult “Using Your Analyzer With Your PC” on page 151for

tails, if necessary.)

During analysis and detector calibrations, it is important to ensure that the analyzer is not exposed to strong electromagnetic fields, including those produced by computer monitors, hard drives, cellular telephones, walkie talkies, etc. Keep a minimum two (2) feet (0.7 meters) distance between the analyzer and electronic devices.

From the Main Menu, select System Check icon then the Yes button. (Figure 1.)

System Check calibrates the detector and verifies it is operating to specifications. After starting the process, no further user interaction is required during this operation. When the instrument is finished performing the check, the unit will show either “System OK” or one of the failure errors.

If the unit shows a failure error, then perform a second System Check by clicking Recheck. If the unit still does not show a “System OK,” please contact Thermo Scientific Niton Analyzers toll-free in the USA at (800) 875-1578, +1 978 670-7460, niton@thermofisher.com, or contact your local Niton Analyzers representative for assistance.

Figure 41. System Check Menu Path

Thermo Scientific Niton XL3 analyzers are equipped with excitation filters that optimize the analyzers’ sensitivity for various elements. The “Main Range” filter provides optimum sensitivity for the elements manganese (Mn) through bismuth (Bi). The “Low Range” filter is used to optimize the sensitivity for the elements from titanium (Ti) through chromium (Cr).

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How to Analyze

General Analysis

Note that the main range filter can be used to analyze Ti, V and Cr, but the sensitivity is not as good as when using the low filter. The "Light Range" filter is available only with He-purged and GOLDD technology analyzers, and is typically used in light element analysis. The amount of time that the analyzer spends in each filter position is user definable, but the default settings should be used unless there is reason to change them. Please note that the analyzer will continue alternating excitation filters until the user selectable maximum analysis time is reached or the operator terminates the measurement.

Figure 42. Setting Element Ranges

Verify instrument measurement accuracy using the supplied reference material (RM) supplied with the analyzer.

Test the factory-supplied reference standard (or other approved check sample) based on a 30s measurement using main range filter only. If the sample is correctly identified and all major elements read within calculated acceptance limits (within the low and high values of factory readings found on the QC sheet, proceed to General Testing Protocol section

If the analyzer reports values outside the acceptance tolerance ranges specified in the tables, repeat the detector calibration then repeat the reference sample analysis.

If the analyzer again fails to meet the acceptance tolerance ranges specified in the tables, please contact Thermo Scientific Niton Analyzers or your local representative for assistance.

GENERAL TESTING PROTOCOL

Good surface preparation is essential for obtaining accurate test results. All non- representative

aterial (e.g., paint, coating, scale) must be removed prior to testing. An approximately

m 2-inch-square section of surface should be cleaned down to the material to be analyzed. See the Resource Guide for information on Sample Preparation.

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The analyzer will often display a correct alloy identification and/or accurate chemistry result before the specified time interval. If the accuracy meets the user’s requirements, it is not necessary to measure for the full time.

Longer measurements might be necessary if low concentrations of elements must be determined.

INSTRUMENT QC

Measure the supplied reference calibration check sample AT LEAST once a shift. If correct, continue work. If incorrect, redo System Check and re-take the past 2 hours of results.

UNDERSIZED OR NON-CONTACT SAMPLES

(Samples that do not make contact with or that do not fully cover the measurement aperture)

or samples that do not fully cover the measurement aperture, increase the testing time by

F increasing the time in inverse proportion to the decrease in percentage of aperture covered. For example: a rod only covers ½ of the aperture, so increase the measurement time by two (e.g., from 10 to 20 seconds per filter for alloy chemistry).

How to Analyze

General Analysis

The best procedure to measure undersized samples is to use the Thermo Scientific Niton portable test stand (optional), which is shielded to prevent radiation exposure to the operator.

An undersized sample may alternately be measured while lying on another material. Results may be affected by the signal coming from the underlying material itself. Use only pure aluminum, pure plastic, or clean wood and employ the Disable Al feature. Use the Tools Menu, then select Disable Al, and check the underlying surface itself to be sure no metals are present. Be sure to use the Tools Menu and select Enable Al before testing aluminum alloys.

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How to Analyze

General Analysis

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Basic Operation

Taking a Sample Analysis

Basic Operation

Taking a Sample Analysis

1. Clean the sample to be analyzed so it is free of all surface contamination.

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Basic Operation

Taking a Sample Analysis

2. Place the analyzer so the sample is covered by the analysis window.

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Basic Operation

Taking a Sample Analysis

3. Select the Sample Type Icon.

. Select the proper Mode (in this case Mining Cu/Zn) from the Mode Menu.

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Basic Operation

Taking a Sample Analysis

Note See “Analysis Modes” on page 79. for more information on the Modes available.

5. Select the Analyze Icon.

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Basic Operation

Taking a Sample Analysis

5a. Select Data Entryif you wish todo any data entry.

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Basic Operation

Taking a Sample Analysis

5b and 5c. Enter the data on the sample using the Virtual Keyboard.

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Basic Operation

Taking a Sample Analysis

6. Initiate a Reading by pressing the trigger.

. When the sample has been sufficiently analyzed, release the trigger.

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Basic Operation

Taking a Sample Analysis

8. View the composition returned.

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Basic Operation Analysis Modes

9. Remove the sample.

Analysis Modes

Your analyzer has several Analysis Modes. Which Analysis Mode you should use depends on

he nature of the sample you are attempting to analyze.

General Metals Mode

Use this mode to analyze samples entirely composed of metal alloys. This mode will attempt to return an Alloy Grade Identification by matching the analyzed composition of the sample with the nominal composition of alloys in the analyzer's Alloy Grade Library. It will also return an elemental composition of the alloy as analyzed. Alloy Composition is output by default in terms of percent of composition by weight.

See “Using General Metals Mode” on page 81.

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Basic Operation

Analysis Modes

Electronic Metals Mode

Use this mode to analyze electronic component samples - circuit boards, chips, etc. This mode will attempt to return an Alloy Grade Identification by matching the analyzed composition of the sample with the nominal composition of electronic alloys in the analyzer's Alloy Grade Library. It will also return an elemental composition of the electronic alloy as analyzed. Electronic Metal Composition is outputby default in terms of percent of composition by weight.

See “Using Electronic Metals Mode” on page 82.

Precious Metals Mode

Use this mode to analyze samples composed primarily of precious metals. This mode will

ttempt to return an Alloy Grade Identification by matching the analyzed composition of the

a sample with the nominal composition of alloys in the analyzer's Precious Alloy Grade Library. It will also return an elemental composition of the precious metal sample as analyzed. Precious Alloy Composition is outputby default in terms of parts per million.

See “Using Precious Metals Mode” on page 82.

Plastics Mode

Use this mode to analyze samples composed primarily of plastic. This mode will return an elemental composition of the plastic sample as analyzed. Plastic Composition is outputby default in terms of parts per million.

See “Using Plastics Mode” on page 84.

Soils Mode

Use this mode to analyze samples composed primarily of soil and rock. This mode will return

n elemental composition of the soil sample as analyzed. Soil Composition is outputby

a default in terms of parts per million.

See “Using Soils Mode” on page 84.

Mining Cu/Zn Mode

Use this mode to analyze samples composed of potential metal ore - rock containing high proportions of metal - and containing Cu and/or Zn. This mode will return an elemental composition of the ore sample as analyzed. Ore Composition is outputby default in terms of percent of composition by weight.

See “Using Mining Cu/Zn Mode” on page 85.

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Mining Ta/Hf Mode

Use this mode to analyze samples composedof potential metal ore- rock containing high proportions of metal - and containing Ta and/or Hf. This mode will return an elemental composition of the ore sample as analyzed. Ore Composition is outputby default in terms of percent of composition by weight.

See “Using Mining Ta/Hf Mode” on page 86.

TestAll Mode

Use this mode to analyze samples composed of unknown and/or mixed composition, such as t Identification by comparing the analysis with other general types of materials. It will select the proper sub-mode for analysis and return an elemental composition of the sample as analyzed. Material Elemental Composition is outputby default in terms of parts per million.

See “Using TestAll Mode” on page 86.

Basic Operation Analysis Modes

oys and consumer products. This mode will attempt to return a general Material

TestAll Geo Mode

Use this mode to analyze powder, mineral, and ore samples without first determining whether the samples would best be analyzed with Mining or Soil Mode. This mode uses both the Compton Normalization calibration (Soil) and the Fundamental Parameters calibration (Mining) to determine whether the soil calibration is acceptable or whether the total metal content is too high for Compton mode. It will then return an elemental composition of the sample as analyzed. If the sample can be analyzed via soil mode, then the analyzer will display results from both Soil and Mining Modes in one unified list. If both calibrations contain the same element, then the mode that has the lower detection limit will be displayed. Material Elemental Composition is outputby default in terms of both parts per million (mg/kg) and percent of composition by weight, with 0.10% being the cutoff point.

Note Due to the nature of this mode, your analyzer will only use factory calibrations. User modified Cal Factors will not be available.

See “Using TestAll Geo Mode” on page 86.

Using General Metals Mode

1. Clean the sample to be analyzed so it is free of all surface contamination, grinding the

urface if appropriate.

2. Place the analyzer so that the sample covers the analysis window.

3. Select the Mode icon.

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Basic Operation

Analysis Modes

a. Select General Metals from the Mode Menu.

4. Select the Analyze icon.

a. Select the Data Button if you wish to do any data entry.

b. Enter the data on the sample using the Virtual Keyboard. 

5. Initiate the analysis.

6. When the sample has been sufficiently analyzed, stop the analysis.

7. View the composition returned.

8. Remove the sample.

Using Electronic Metals Mode

1. Clean the sample to be analyzed so it is free of all surface contamination.

. Place the analyzer so that the sample covers the analysis window.

3. Select the Mode icon.

a. Select Electronic Metals from the Mode Menu.

4. Select the Analyze icon.

a. Select the Data Button if you wish to do any data entry.

b. Enter the data on the sample using the Virtual Keyboard. 

5. Initiate the analysis.

6. When the sample has been sufficiently analyzed, stop the analysis.

7. View the composition returned.

8. Remove the sample.

Using Precious Metals Mode

1. Clean the sample to be analyzed so it is free of all surface contamination.

. Place the analyzer so that the sample covers the analysis window.

3. Select the Mode icon.

a. Select Precious Metals from the Mode Menu.

4. Select the Analyze icon.

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a. Select the Data Button if you wish to do any data entry.

b. Enter the data on the sample using the Virtual Keyboard. 

5. Initiate the analysis.

6. When the sample has been sufficiently analyzed, stop the analysis.

7. View the composition returned.

8. Remove the sample.

Basic Operation Analysis Modes

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Basic Operation

Analysis Modes

Using Plastics Mode

1. Clean the sample to be analyzed so it is free of all surface contamination.

2. Place the analyzer so that the sample covers the analysis window.

3. Select the Mode icon.

a. Select Plastics from the Mode Menu.

4. Select the Analyze icon.

a. Select the Data Button if you wish to do any data entry.

b. Enter the data on the sample using the Virtual Keyboard. 

5. Initiate the analysis.

6. When the sample has been sufficiently analyzed, stop the analysis.

Using Soils Mode

7. View the composition returned.

8. Remove the sample.

1. Pack the sample into a Sample Cup.

. Clean the sample to be analyzed so it is free of all surface contamination.

2. Place the analyzer so that the sample covers the analysis window.

3. Select the Mode icon.

a. Select Soils from the Mode Menu.

4. Select the Analyze icon.

a. Select the Data Button if you wish to do any data entry.

b. Enter the data on the sample using the Virtual Keyboard. 

5. Initiate the analysis.

6. When the sample has been sufficiently analyzed, stop the analysis.

7. View the composition returned.

8. Remove the sample.

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Using Mining Cu/Zn Mode

1. Clean the sample to be analyzed so it is free of all surface contamination.

2. Place the analyzer so that the sample covers the analysis window.

3. Select the Mode icon.

a. Select Mining Cu/Zn from the Mode Menu.

4. Select the Analyze icon.

a. Select the Data Button if you wish to do any data entry.

b. Enter the data on the sample using the Virtual Keyboard. 

5. Initiate the analysis.

6. When the sample has been sufficiently analyzed, stop the analysis.

Basic Operation Analysis Modes

7. View the composition returned.

8. Remove the sample.

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Basic Operation

Analysis Modes

Using Mining Ta/Hf Mode

1. Clean the sample to be analyzed so it is free of all surface contamination.

2. Place the analyzer so that the sample covers the analysis window.

3. Select the Mode icon.

a. Select Mining Ta/Hf from the Mode Menu.

4. Select the Analyze icon.

a. Select the Data Button if you wish to do any data entry.

b. Enter the data on the sample using the Virtual Keyboard. 

5. Initiate the analysis.

6. When the sample has been sufficiently analyzed, stop the analysis.

7. View the composition returned.

8. Remove the sample.

Using TestAll Mode

1. Clean the sample to be analyzed so it is free of all surface contamination.

3. Select the Mode icon.

a. Select TestAll from the Mode Menu.

4. Select the Analyze icon.

a. Select the Data Button if you wish to do any data entry.

b. Enter the data on the sample using the Virtual Keyboard. 

5. Initiate the analysis.

6. When the sample has been sufficiently analyzed, stop the analysis.

. Place the analyzer so that the sample covers the analysis window.

7. View the composition returned.

8. Remove the sample.

Using TestAll Geo Mode

1. Clean the sample to be analyzed so it is free of all surface contamination.

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2. Place the analyzer so that the sample covers the analysis window.

3. Select the Mode icon.

a. Select TestAll Geo from the Mode Menu.

4. Select the Analyze icon.

a. Select the Data Button if you wish to do any data entry.

b. Enter the data on the sample using the Virtual Keyboard. 

5. Initiate the analysis.

6. When the sample has been sufficiently analyzed, stop the analysis.

7. View the composition returned.

8. Remove the sample.

Basic Operation Analysis Modes

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Basic Operation

Analysis Modes

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Common Operations

Metal Sample Prep

Up until recently, sample preparation was not a big worry for XRF metals analysis, as the

OD of the analyzer was seldom low enough for any but the most heavy contamination to be

L intrusive; but recent developments such as He-purged analysis have brought analysis to a level where even light surface contamination can skew an analysis.

You should always prepare your samples before analysis, especially when using He-purged analysis, as these analyzers will see even trace amounts of contaminants. Oils from fingerprints and other body contact, lint, oxidation materials, and abrasive materials used in cleaning can all skew readings if not removed. Sample preparation is simple and not time consuming, and usually well worth the effort.

The following is a list of problems that need correction before testing:

Common Operations

Metal Sample Prep

• Oxidation or Rust may produce an increase or decrease in one or more element test values unless we remove the rust or oxidation and expose the raw metal.

• Paint may contain several elements which need to be tested at lower levels within metal alloys (Ti & Zn in white paint, Fe in red paint, Cr in green paint).

• Oil, grease or lubricates may contain high levels of the following elements: lithium, aluminum, barium, strontium, molybdenum or calcium.

Plated surfaces may have high levels of the following elements: zinc, chromium, nickel, or copper.

CAUTION Anything on the metal surface will become part of your test results!

Sample Analysis Preparation

You need to clear the surface of your samples of any paint, plating, or any oxidation such as

ust or verdigris before analysis. In order to accomplish this, you need the following:

• Isopropyl alcohol - not rubbing alcohol, which contains oils.

• Lint-free paper.

• Diamond paper - P/N 179-1202- cut into 1 inch/2.5 cm squares. Never re-use this paper, as it may transfer contaminants to the surface of the sample from previous cleanings. Depending on the state of the sample, several squares may be needed per sample.

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Common Operations

Metal Sample Prep

• A Sample Grinder for removing deeper surface contamination. Choice of grinding wheel media also may be important, depending on what you are testing for. Never re-use grinding media, as contaminants can be transferred from sample to sample on the media itself.

For light contamination on hard metal reference standards, remove the oxidation by scrubbing the dry sample lightly with the diamond paper square, using the fingers to maintain pressure. If the diamond paper begins to load up with material, discard it and use a fresh square. When the oxidation is removed, wipe the sample with lint-free paper soaked with isopropyl alcohol to remove any oils or dust. Let the sample dry before attempting analysis.

For soft metal reference standards, wipe the sample with lint-free paper soaked with isopropyl alcohol, then remove the oxidation by scrubbing the wet sample lightly with the diamond paper square, using the fingers to maintain pressure. If the diamond paper begins to load up with material, discard it and use a fresh square. When the oxidation is removed, wipe the sample again with lint-free paper soaked with isopropyl alcohol to remove any oils or dust. Let the sample dry before attempting analysis.

Oils, lint and dust can be removed by wiping the sample with lint-free paper soaked with isopropyl alcohol. Let the sample dry before attempting analysis.

Surface Oxidation

With the exception of a limited number of metal types, most metal alloys form an oxide

overing on the surface when exposed to oxygen or air. This oxide covering is visible in carbon

c and low alloy steel as a red colored substance called rust. Other metal alloys form oxidation which is not always visible, but that does not mean that it is not present. If the test results for low concentration elements are higher or lower than expected, remove the oxide coating by grinding and retest. Follow proper safety procedures when changing discs or grinding materials.

During a recent case study the effects of sample preparation became apparent. A customer asked for low detection limits of nickel, chromium and copper in carbon steel pipe. The reported chemistry of the purchased material is listed on the first line in the chart below. The test results of a hand held Niton XL3t 900S GOLDD instrument appears in the second line of the chart. The results from a test on the unground surface appear in the bottom line of the chart. Note the values for nickel and copper in this carbon steel alloy in the chart below. The oxidation on the surface of this pipe was not visibly egregious. We need to always be wary of the presence of even low levels of oxidation and their possible effects on analytic accuracy.

Table 1. Comparative test results with and without grinding

Sample % Mn % Ni % Cr % Mo % Cu

Reported Chemistry 0.650 0.090 0.070 0.030 0.040

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Table 1. Comparative test results with and without grinding

Test Results with Ground Surface 0.67 0.089 0.070 0.033 0.039

est Results with Unground Sur-

0.61 0.178 0.081 0.033 0.514

face

Painted Surfaces

Paint is a mixture of several items that are combined into a liquid which is applied to the

urface of materials such as metal. Once applied this liquid dries with time and adheres to the

s surface of metal. Paint is used to protect or decorate the metal item. Paint can also be used to identify or mark the metal during the manufacturing process.

Components of paint are divided into classifications of pigments, binders, solvents, additives and fillers. The inorganic elements in pigments will contribute to increases in displayed values for those elements if paint on the metal surface is not removed prior to testing. Be especially careful of the presence of heavy elements, which can also act to shield x-rays from lighter elements in the metal sample.

Common Operations

Metal Sample Prep

White Paint

Red Paint

The following is a list of some of the most common components of paint:

• Antimony (Sb)

• Lead (Pb)

• Titanium (Ti)

• Zinc (Zn)

• Cobalt (Co)

• Iron (Fe)

Lead (Pb)

•

• Green Paint

• Chromium (Cr)

An experiment was conducted to determine the effect and severity of surface problems on XRF results. Results from analyses of a 1541 alloy steel sample are shown below, before and after surface grinding. The sample had painted markings, of light to medium thickness, on the surface, as well as light rust. Note the change in titanium, zinc and cobalt levels after surface grinding.

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Common Operations

Metal Sample Prep

Table 2. Prepped and unprepped painted metal analysis

Sample Mn Ni Cr Mo Ti Zn Co

Ground Surface 1.49 0.04 0.03 0.004 0.011 0.0001 0.03

Unground Surface 1.34 0.01 0.04 0.011 2.507 1.751 0.21

Oil, Grease & Cutting Oils

Oil and grease contain a number of elements combined into a viscous substance and applied

o moving parts in order to reduce friction. Grease coatings can remain on component

t surfaces after it has been removed from service. Grease can also be applied to a metal's surface by accidental contact with other materials coated in heavy grease. Metals can also be coated in oil as a result of cutting and machining processes in manufacturing.

Grease and oil may contain the following elements:

• Aluminum (Al)

• Zinc (Zn)

• Molybdenum (Mo)

• Sodium (Na)

• Calcium (Ca)

An experiment was performed to show how grease on metal surfaces affects XRF results. A carbon steel sample was cleaned and ground as a control surface for the experiment. XRF tests were performed on the control surface, and again after light and heavier layers of automotive wheel bearing grease were applied to the surface of the steel sample. Results are shown below. Note the elevated levels of molybdenum, cobalt and zinc from the grease.

Table 3. Clean and greased sample metal analysis

Sample Mn Ni Cr Mo Cu Co Zn

Clean Surface 1.18 0.001 0.041 0.004 0.001 0.001 0.019

Light Grease 1.07 0.001 0.001 0.067 0.033 0.322 0.416

Heavy Grease 0.96 0.001 0.001 0.500 0.062 1.760 3.430

If a sample's surface contains lubricants or cutting oil, use a solvent and a clean towel or rag to remove them before analysis. You may then need to grind the surface to insure good results. Clean first, grind second, test last.

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Thermo Scientific XL3 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Contact Us

Manual Overview

Warnings, Cautions, and Notes

Warnings

Cautions

Notes

Figures

Physical Buttons

Other Hardware

Using Your Analyzer

Safely and Effectively Using Your Analyzer

Radiation and General Safety

Radiation Protection Basics

Exposure to Radiation

Monitoring your radiation exposure

Pregnancy and Radiation Exposure

How to Use the Niton XL3t Analyzer Safely

Handle and Use with Respect

Follow a Radiation Protection Program

Take Proper Care of your Niton XL3

Avoid Over-Exposures

Safe Handling of Samples

Small Samples

Irregularly Shaped Samples

Low Density Materials (such as plastics).

Niton XL3t Radiation Profile

Niton XL3t GOLDD Plus Radiation Profile

Niton XL3p Radiation Profile

Primary Radiation

Secondary Radiation

Holding Samples

Deep and Shallow Dose

Proper and Improper Operation

Storage and Transportation

Lost or Stolen Instrument

Damaged Instrument

Emergency Response Information

Regarding Safety Devices for the Open Beam Configuration:

Startup Procedure

Unpacking and Preparing Your Niton XRF Analyzer

Battery Installation and Charging

Installing or Replacing The Battery Pack

Recharging The Battery Pack

The Control Panel

The LCD Touch Screen

Startup Procedure

Performing a System Check

Calibrating the Touch Screen

Calibrating the Touch Screen Without Using the Touch Screen

The Data Ports

USB Port

Remote Trigger Port

Serial Port

Power Port

Using the Navigation (NAV) Menu

Using the Tools Menu

Toggling Buttons and Options

Tools Menu Options (Mode Dependent)

Setting the Date and Time

Changing the Month

Changing the Year

Changing the Date

Changing the Hour and Minute

Data Entry

The Data Entry Menu Buttons

Field Name

Virtual Keyboard Button

Drop Down Menu Arrow

The Results Screen

Data Field

Back Button

Show Button

Match Number

How to Analyze

General Analysis

PREPARATORY TASKS