500-912-User-Guide-XLp500-V4.2

NITON XLp 500 SERIES ANALYZER

USERS GUIDE

Part Number 500-912

Version 4.2

Thermo Electron Corporation Portable Elemental Analysis

900 Middlesex Turnpike, Building 8Billerica, Massachusetts 01821 USA

Voice: (800) 875-1578 +1 (978) 670-7460 Fax: +1 (978) 670-7430Email: [email protected] web: http://www.niton.com

Copyright Thermo Electron Corporation1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004.

All Rights Reserved

No part of this publication may be reproduced, read or stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, by photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without the prior permission of Thermo Electron Corporation.

NITON XLp, 500 Series, and SpectraView are trademarks of Thermo Electron Corporation.

The information in this Users Guide is furnished for informational purposes only, is subject to change without notice, and should not be construed as a commitment by Thermo Electron Corporation. Thermo Electron Corporation assumes no liability for any errors, inaccuracies or omissions that may appear in this book.

XLp 500 Series Analyzer Users Guide XLp 500 Series Analyzer

Produced in the United States of America

Registration: Thermo Electron Corporation manufactures the XLp 500 Series Analyzer under the authority of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, in accordance with Radioactive Materials License 55-0238

! Warning: Do not attempt to use this instrument without first reading and understand-ing the entire Users Guide!

YOUR NITON XRF ANALYZER .................................................. IUnpacking and Assembling Your NITON XLp XRF Analyzer ............ iThe NITON XLp XRF Analyzer Overview ........................................... iiThe Control Panel ................................................................................... iiInstrument Startup .................................................................................. ivScreen Contrast....................................................................................... vi

RADIATION SAFETY ..................................................................... 1Typical Radiation Doses in milliREM (NCRP, 1987) ........................... 3How to Use Your NITON XLp .............................................................. 5 Shutter safety ......................................................................................... 7Monitoring your Radiation Exposure ..................................................... 8Procedures for Instrument Loss or Damage IN THE USA .................... 11Procedures for Instrument Loss or Damage OUTSIDE THE USA ....... 12RADIATION PROFILES....................................................................... 13

THE MENU SYSTEM ..................................................................... 1The Main Menu ...................................................................................... 2The Mode Menu ..................................................................................... 4The Utilities Menu.................................................................................. 6 The Data Menu ...................................................................................... 9The Data Menu - Second Page ............................................................... 11The View Libraries Menu....................................................................... 12The Common Setup Menu...................................................................... 13The Calibrate Menu ................................................................................ 15The Erase Menu...................................................................................... 17The Serial Output Menu ......................................................................... 19The Set Protocol Menu ........................................................................... 20The Hardware Setup Menu..................................................................... 22The Source Menu.................................................................................... 24The Source Time Menu .......................................................................... 25 The Source Match Number Menu ......................................................... 27Industrial Bulk Calibration Factors ........................................................ 29

ALLOY TESTING ........................................................................... 1Using Alloy Testing Mode ..................................................................... 1

PB PAINT MODE .......................................................................... 1Using Pb Paint Mode .............................................................................. 1

THIN SAMPLE TEST MODES ......................................................... 1Using Thin Sample Test Modes ............................................................. 1

BULK SAMPLE TEST MODES ....................................................... 1Using Bulk Sample Test Modes ............................................................. 1The Bulk Sample Mode Menu................................................................ 2 Standard Soil Mode ............................................................................... 5Industrial Bulk Cu/Zn/Pb Testing Mode ................................................ 7Industrial Bulk Ta/Hf/Re Testing Mode................................................. 8Analyzing Bulk Samples ........................................................................ 9To Prepare or Not to Prepare In Situ vs. Ex Situ................................. 13The Data Entry Screen............................................................................ 25Setting Up Custom Barcodes.................................................................. 28Navigating the Data Entry Screen .......................................................... 29The Virtual Keyboard ............................................................................. 30NITON Mining Test Platform ................................................................ 31NITON RCRA Verification Response Sample ...................................... 32Certified values for NIST standards ....................................................... 33

PRECIOUS METALS MODE ........................................................... 1Using Precious Metals Mode.................................................................. 1

ROUTINE MAINTENANCE GUIDELINES ........................................ 1Battery Pack and Battery Charger .......................................................... 1Maintenance, Cleaning and Repairs ....................................................... 6Storing and Transporting Your NITON XLp 500 Series Analyzer........ 9

APPENDIX A ................................................................................. IX-ray Emission Energies, Arranged by Element, by Atomic Number... i

APPENDIX B.................................................................................. IIIX-ray Emission Energies Arranged Alphabetically by Element ............ iii

APPENDIX C.................................................................................. VSpectraView............................................................................................ v

APPENDIX D ................................................................................. VIIISummary of Warnings............................................................................ viii

APPENDIX E.................................................................................. XISummary of Cautions ............................................................................. xi

APPENDIX F .................................................................................. XIVLaser Device Notice ............................................................................... xiv

APPENDIX G ................................................................................. XVWarranty ................................................................................................. xv

GLOSSARY .................................................................................... XVII

Introduction:YourNITONXRFAnalyzerIntroduction YOUR NITON XRF ANALYZER

UNPACKING AND ASSEMBLING YOUR NITON XLP XRF ANALYZER

Inspect the shipping carton for signs of damage such as crushed or water damaged packaging. Immediately notify the shipping company and Thermo Electron Corporation, 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 ship-ping container or any of its contents.

Open the packing carton. If your instrument is not packed in its carrying case, please call Thermo Electron Corporation imme-diately, in the United States, toll free, at (800) 875-1578, or out-side 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 pack-ing list, please notify Thermo Electron Corporation immedi-ately, 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 instrument for damage before removing it from the case. Call the shipper and Thermo Electron Corporation if you find any damage to the case or its contents.

Save the shipping carton and all packing materials. Store them in a safe, dry area for reuse the next time that you ship the instrument. NITONXLp500SeriesMiningAnalyzerUsersGuideIntroductioni

Introduction:YourNITONXRFAnalyzerTHE NITON XLP XRF ANALYZER OVERVIEW

The NITON XLp Analyzer is a single unit, hand held, high perfor-mance portable x-ray fluorescence (XRF) elemental analyzer.

THE CONTROL PANEL

The control panel is located on the instruments top housing, directly below the LCD touch screen (see Figure I-2). The control panel consists of a 4 way touch pad and two control buttons, one on each side. Using either the control panel or the touch screen (with or without the NITON standard touch screen stylus accessory, that clips in the XLp battery pack) you may navigate through all of the instruments screens and menus. You can control the movement of the screen cursor by pressing the four way control pad in one of four directions to highlight each of the menu options. The enter but-ton on the right side of the four way touch pad is used to select highlighted menu options. The on/off/escape button both controls the power to the instrument and serves as an "escape" button. When the on/off/escape button is pushed and immediately released, it

Top View

Rear View Front View

Bottom View

Side View

Control panel

Stylus

LED lights Trigger

LCD touch screen

Measurement window

Battery pack/handle

Figure I-1

Proximity Sensor

RearInterlock

NITONXLp500SeriesMiningAnalyzerUsersGuideIntroductionii

Introduction:YourNITONXRFAnalyzerfunctions as an "escape", and brings you back to the Main Menu from the current screen in the menu system.

Push and hold the on/off/escape button for at least 3 seconds to turn the instrument on. A 'beep' will sound as the power comes on. Push the on/off/escape button and hold it down for about 10 seconds to shut off power to the instrument from any screen in the menu sys-tem. The instrument will 'beep' as it shuts down.

You also have the option of operating the instrument, including navigating the menu system, by using the built in touch screen with or without the stylus. To select a menu option with the stylus, tap on the icon once. The touch screen icons have the same functionality as the four 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.

LCD touch screen

On/off/escape button

Clear/enter button

4-way touch pad

Figure I-2NITONXLp500SeriesMiningAnalyzerUsersGuideIntroductioniii

Introduction:YourNITONXRFAnalyzerINSTRUMENT STARTUP

To turn on the instrument, depress the on/off/escape button on the control panel for approximately 3 seconds, until you hear a beep.

On startup, the screen will be replaced by a Restart screen (see Fig-ure I-3) which will automatically count down from 9 to 0 in incre-ments of one second.

When the Restart is complete, the Restart Screen will be replaced by the Logon screen (see Figure I-4). Tap anywhere on this screen to access the virtual touch pad:

Figure I-3

Figure I-4NITONXLp500SeriesMiningAnalyzerUsersGuideIntroductioniv

Introduction:YourNITONXRFAnalyzerSelect your 4 digit security code, followed by the enter (E) key. The temporary password assigned by default is 1-2-3-4, followed by the E key. After you have completed the log on procedure, the word "SUCCESS" will appear on the bottom of the screen, then the Main Menu will appear:

Check the date/time. The time should be set correctly for accurate and verifiable record keeping (see Set Time and Date on page 2-7).

Your analyzer can be stored safely in temperatures of up to 122F (50C) and is designed to operate at temperatures of up to 122F (50C). You will not be able to take a measurement if the instrument overheats. If it is hot to the touch, you should allow it to cool before testing.

Figure I-5NITONXLp500SeriesMiningAnalyzerUsersGuideIntroductionv

Introduction:YourNITONXRFAnalyzerSCREEN CONTRAST

To adjust the contrast of your instruments touch screen display, press and hold the left and right ends of the 4 way Touch Pad until a beep sounds. After the beep, you may press the up portion of the 4 way Touch Pad to darken the screen, and the down portion to lighten the screen. When you have the display adjusted so that it is best for you, press the Enter button to save the current setting. NITONXLp500SeriesMiningAnalyzerUsersGuideIntroductionvi

Chapter1:RadiationSafetyChapter 1 RADIATION SAFETY

The NITON XLp Analyzer was designed so that virtually no mea-surable radiation external to any part of the instrument can escape when the shutter is closed. When the instrument is used in accor-dance with it's instructions, it is completely safe, that is, there is minimal radiation exposure, even with the shutter open. NITON XLp Analyzers contain sealed 109Cd and/or 55Fe and/or 241Am radioactive isotope sources. The source is designed to remain secure even under extreme conditions, so that even if the instrument is broken, crushed or burned, there should be no leakage of radioactive material.

During manufacturing, each sealed isotope source is locked in place in a solid tungsten alloy source holder. The source is completely secure in its housing because the aperture at the closure end of the housing is smaller than the source and is completely sealed. The source assembly is secured in the instruments case, which is fitted with tamper-proof screws.

Your exposure to radiation is determined by three factors: time, dis-tance, and shielding. Human exposure to radiation is typically mea-sured in REMs, or in one-thousandths of a REM, called milliREMs (mREM).

For a given source of radiation, three factors will determine the radiation dosage you receive from the source:

1. Duration of ExposureThe longer you are exposed to a source of radiation the more radiation strikes your body and the greater the dose you receive. Dosage increases in direct proportion to length of exposure.

2. Distance from The Source

The closer you are to a source of radiation, the more radiation strikes you. The dosage increases in inverse-squared relation to your distance from the source of radiation. For example, the NITONXLp500SeriesMiningAnalyzerUsersGuideChapter11

Chapter1:RadiationSafetyradiation dose one inch from a source is nine times greater than the dose three inches from the source, and 144 times greater than the dose one foot (12 inches) from the source. For another example, the radiation dose one meter from the source of radia-tion is 100 times lower than the dose at 10 cm from the source of radiation. Keep your hand and all body parts away from the front end of the instrument when the shutter is open to minimize your exposure.

3. ShieldingYour instrument emits virtually no radiation with the shutter closed because the 109Cd and/or 55Fe and/or 241Am sources are thoroughly shielded in every direction. This shielding absorbs nearly all of the radiation produced by the source except when the shutter is open during testing. With the shutter open, the instrument emits a maxi-mum directed radiation beam of approximately 315 mREM/hr intensity. Always hold your instrument so that the radiation beam is not aimed at yourself or at anyone else.

Note: Wearing a dosimeter badge does not protect you against radia-tion exposure. A dosimeter badge measures your exposure.

Note: Pregnant workers may want to take special precautions to reduce their exposure to radiation. Qualified scientists have recom-mended that the radiation dose to pregnant women should not exceed a total of 500 mREM/gestation period. See U.S. NRC Regulatory Guide 8.13 "Instruction Concerning Prenatal Radiation Exposure".

The Table 1-1 lists typical radiation doses encountered in daily life and lists the annual occupational radiation dosage limits for adults set forth in 105CMR 120.200NITONXLp500SeriesMiningAnalyzerUsersGuideChapter12

Chapter1:RadiationSafetyTYPICAL RADIATION DOSES IN MILLIREM (NCRP, 1987)

Table 1-1

Average total dose in US (annual) 360 mREM (3.6 mSv)

Average worker exposure (annual) 210 mREM (2.1 mSv)

Average exposure for underground miner (annual)

400 mREM (4.0 mSv)

Exposure for airline crew (1,000 hours at 35,000 ft)

500 mREM (5.0 mSv)

Additional from living in Denver at 5300' (annual)

25 mREM (0.25 mSv)

Additional from 4 pCi/l radon in home (annual)

1,000 mREM (10.0 mSv)

Typical chest x-ray 6 mREM (0.06 mSv)

Typical head or neck x-ray 20 mREM (0.2 mSv)

Typical pelvis/hip x-ray 65 mREM (0.65 mSv)

Typical lumbar spine x-ray 30 mREM (1.3 mSv)

Typical upper G.I. x-ray 245 mREM (2.45 mSv)

Typical barium enema x-ray 405 mREM (4.05 mSv)

Typical CAT scan 110 mREM (1.10 mSv)

Minimum detectable dose on a standard film badge

5 mREM/QTR (0.05 mSv)

Annual occupational dosage limits:

Maximum allowable for the gen-eral public (annual)

100 mREM (1.0 mSv)

Annual Occupational Dose Limits for Adults:

Whole body 5,000 mREM/yr (50 mSv)

For a pregnant worker (during ges-tation period)

500 mREM (5.0 mSv)

For a minor 500 mREM (5.0 mSv)

Eye dose equivalent 15,000 mREM (150 mSv)

Shallow dose equivalent to the skin or any extremity or organ

50,000 mREM (500 mSv)NITONXLp500SeriesMiningAnalyzerUsersGuideChapter13

Chapter1:RadiationSafetyAs noted above, the allowable limit in the U.S. for occupational exposure is 5,000 mREM/year (50 mSv/year) for a whole-body and 50,000 mREM (500 mSv) for shallow penetration of extremities. Extremity exposure from a properly used NITON XRF instrument will be less than 100 mREM per year, (1.0 mSv per year) even if the instrument is used as much as 2,000 hours per year, with the shutter open continuously.

NOTE: NCRP is the National Council on Radiation Protection and Mea-surementsNITONXLp500SeriesMiningAnalyzerUsersGuideChapter14

Chapter1:RadiationSafetyHOW TO USE YOUR NITON XLp

The NITON XLp was designed to be as safe as possible. However, we strongly recommend that you follow these precautions to insure your safety and the safety of those around you.

WARNING!

Always be aware of the location of your instruments radioac-tive sources and the direction of their beam of X-rays. The loca-tion of the sources is at the front end of the instrument.

Open the shutter only to do a test. The shutter can only be opened after the user has logged on to the instrument using the password.

During testing, a strong beam of radiation is continuously emitted through the kapton window at the front of the instrument (see Fig-ure 1-1). There will be some radiation at the front and top-front of the instrument. There is negligible radiation at the handle of the instrument.

!

Horizontal reference

24

Direction of x-ray beam

Figure 1-1NITONXLp500SeriesMiningAnalyzerUsersGuideChapter15

Chapter1:RadiationSafetyWARNING!

Always treat radiation with respect. Do not hold your instru-ment near the Kapton window during testing. Never point your instrument at yourself or anyone else when the shutter is open.!NITONXLp500SeriesMiningAnalyzerUsersGuideChapter16

Chapter1:RadiationSafety SHUTTER SAFETY

Under no circumstances should the shutters be open when theinstrument is not in use!!!

The 3 warning lights on your instrument will go on when one of the shutters is open and stay on as long as one of the shutters remains open.

WARNING!

In the unlikely event that the shutter becomes stuck in the open position, remove the battery (see Battery Pack and Battery Charger - Routine Maintenance Guidelines.) Note: All shutters should close immediately and remain locked in the closed posi-tion when the battery pack is not attached to the instrument), replace the instrument in its shielded holster, place the holster in the shielded carrying case, and call Thermo Electron Corpo-rations Service Department at (800) 875-1578 or +1-978-670-7460.

WARNING!

If your LCD Touch Screen displays the message SHUTTER DOES NOT OPERATE, remove the battery (see Battery Pack and Battery Charger - Routine Maintenance Guidelines.) Note: All shutters should close immediately and remain locked in the closed position when the battery pack is not attached to the instrument), replace the instrument in its shielded holster, place the holster in the shielded carrying case, and call Thermo Elec-tron Corporations Service Department at (800) 875-1578 or +1-978-670-7460.

!

!NITONXLp500SeriesMiningAnalyzerUsersGuideChapter17

Chapter1:RadiationSafetyMONITORING YOUR RADIATION EXPOSURE

There is virtually no measurable radiation from a NITON XLp ana-lyzer when its shutters are closed. The maximum dosage to which you are exposed when properly operating your NITON XLp is

Chapter1:RadiationSafetyforming the test, are available from several vendors. These vendors typically remind you 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.

The diagram in Figure 1-2 shows the test wipe locations.

All source shutters must be closed while performing a leak test!

Along these seams

Around these screw heads

Along these seams

Around thesescrew heads

Along these seams

Around thesescrew heads


Chapter1:RadiationSafetyThe following laboratories supply leak test kits:

Applied Health Physics2986 Industrial Blvd.Bethel Park, PA 15102Tel: (412) 835-9555

Stan A. Huber Consultants200 N. Cedar RoadNew Lennox, IL 60451Tel: (800) 383-0468

Valley Safety Services330 Old Enfield RoadBelchertown, MA 01007Tel: (413) 323-9571

Please check with your local NITON representative if you are located outside the USANITONXLp500SeriesMiningAnalyzerUsersGuideChapter110

Chapter1:RadiationSafetyPROCEDURES FOR INSTRUMENT LOSS OR DAMAGE IN THE USA

If your instrument is damaged, destroyed, lost, or stolen, call:

1. The Office of Radiological Safety for your states Dept. of Health.

Telephone:___________________________________

2. Ken Martin, C.I.H of Thermo Electron Corporation.

3. If your instrument is lost, stolen, or damaged in a car accident, also, immediately notify your State Police Department:

Telephone: ___________________________________

If your instrument is damaged in a fire or an explosion, also immediately, notify your local Fire Department.

Telephone:___________________________________

Note: Please fill in the phone numbers on these pages today. Keep copies where you can find them in case of an emergency.

Table 1-2: During Regular Business Hours

Calling from within the USA (800) 875-1578(toll-free)

Calling from outside the USA +1-978-670-7460

Table 1-3: During Evenings and Weekends

CALL ONLY WHEN YOU HAVE A RADIOLOGICAL EMERGENCY

Person Phone NumberMobile Phone

Number

Calling from Any-where

Ken Martin +1 (617) 923-6312 +1 (617) 901-3125NITONXLp500SeriesMiningAnalyzerUsersGuideChapter111

Chapter1:RadiationSafetyPROCEDURES FOR INSTRUMENT LOSS OR DAMAGE OUTSIDE THE USA

If your instrument is damaged, destroyed, lost, or stolen, immedi-ately notify:

1. The proper authorities for your location.

Telephone:___________________________________2. Ken Martin, C.I.H. of Thermo Electron Corporation

3. If your instrument is lost, or stolen, or damaged in a car acci-dent, also, immediately notify your local Police Department:

Telephone: ___________________________________

If your instrument is damaged in a fire or an explosion, also immediately, notify your local Fire Department.

Telephone:___________________________________

Note: Please fill in the phone numbers on these pages today. Keep copies where you can find them in case of an emergency.

Table 1-4: During Regular Business Hours

Calling from within the USA (800) 875-1578(toll-free)

Calling from outside the USA +1-978-670-7460

Table 1-3: During Evenings and Weekends

CALL ONLY WHEN YOU HAVE A RADIOLOGICAL EMERGENCY

Person Phone NumberMobile Phone

Number

Calling from Any-where

Ken Martin +1 (617) 923-6312 +1 (617) 901-3125NITONXLp500SeriesMiningAnalyzerUsersGuideChapter112

Chapter1:RadiationSafetyRADIATION PROFILES

Radiation measurements were taken at 5 cm., 30 cm., and 100 cm. during the device operation of various substrates (External radia-tion levels were measured with a BICRON Model MICRO REM LE (serial # C235J)). These substrates represent the range of sub-strate densities (radiation scattering) that are expected to be encountered by operators of the device. The dose measurements were performed using a 30 mCi (1100 MBq) 241Am source, a 14 mCi (518 MBq) 241Am source, a 20 mCi (740 MBq) 55Fe source, a 13 mCi (481 MBq) 55Fe, and a 40 mCi (1480 MBq) 109Cd source. The measurements were then calculated to the maximum activities for those sources (30 mCi (1100 MBq) for 241Am, 40 mCi (1480 MBq) for 55Fe and 50 mCi (1850 MBq) for 109Cd.

The two source holder can hold one 55Fe source (maximum activity of 20 mCi (740 MBq)) and one 241Am source (maximum activity of 30 mCi (1100 MBq)). The two source holder requires the 241Am source to be present (for calibration purposes), but does not require the presence of the 55Fe source.

The three source holder can hold one 109Cd source (maximum activity of 50 mCi (1850 MBq)). It can additionally hold either two 241Am sources (maximum activity of 30 mCi total (1100 MBq)) or two 55Fe sources (maximum activity of 40 mCi total (1480 MBq)); or one each of 241Am and 55Fe source (maximum activity of 20 mCi each (740 MBq)). The three source holder can contain any of the above combinations of sources. All configurations of the three source holder use a 1 to 5 microCurie (0.037 to 0.185 MBq) cali-bration source, built into the center shutter.

The dose rate reported that is below the detection limit of the BICRON Model MICRO REM LE (serial # C235J) is 0.05 mREM/hr (0.0005 mSv/hr).

The maximum radiation level measured in the primary beam, shut-ter open, calculated to a 50 mCi (1850 MBq) source of Cadmium-109 was 315 mREM/hr (3.15 mSv/hr) at 5 cm.NITONXLp500SeriesMiningAnalyzerUsersGuideChapter113

Chapter1:RadiationSafetyRadiation Profile of NITON XLpMeasurement Positions*

Table 1-6

*Measurements were taken at an angle away from the sample (the angle coming out from the sample towards the user) that resulted in the highest measurement.

**Sample Plane Angle (degrees) Indicates angle on plane of sam-ple that the measurement was taken. Perspective is from the back of the device, looking at the sample, with 0 degrees at the top. Because of source/shutter geometry, these angles resulted in the highest measurements.

POSITION **Sample Plane Angle

(degrees)

Distance From Sample(centimeters)

1 0 52 90 53 180 54 270 55 0 306 90 307 180 308 270 309 0 10010 90 10011 180 10012 270 100NITONXLp500SeriesMiningAnalyzerUsersGuideChapter114

Chapter1:RadiationSafetyRadiation Profile of NITON XLpTwo Source Housing

Sources of 20 mCi (740 MBq) 55Fe and 30 mCi (1110 MBq) 241Am241Am Source Operating

mREM/hrTable 1-6

mSv/hrTable 1-7

A 20 mCi (740 MBq) 55Fe source was used in the measurements.

A 30 mCi (1110 MBq) 241Am source was used in the measurements.

POSITION Shutter OpenStainless Steel

Shutter OpenAluminum

1 0.40 2.002 0.55 2.503 0.07 1.104 0.45 2.505


Sources of 20 mCi (740 MBq) 55Fe and 30 mCi (1110 MBq) 241Am55Fe Source Operating

mREM/hrTable 1-8

mSv/hrTable 1-9





1 0.05


Source of 30 mCi (1110 MBq) 241Am241Am Source Operating

mREM/hrTable 1-10

mSv/hrTable 1-11


POSITION Shutter OpenPlastic

Shutter OpenMasonry

1 1.32


Sources of 20 mCi (740 MBq) 55Fe and 30 mCi (1110 MBq) 241AmBoth Shutters Closed

mREM/hrTable 1-12

mSv/hrTable 1-13



POSITION Shutter ClosedStainless Steel

Shutter ClosedPlastic

Shutter ClosedAluminum

Shutter ClosedMasonry

1

Chapter1:RadiationSafetyRadiation Profile of NITON XLpThree Source Housing

Sources of 50 mCi (1850 MBq) 109Cd, 20 mCi (740 MBq) 241Am and 20 mCi (740 MBq) 55Fe

5 microCurie (0.185 MBq) Calibration Shutter and 109Cd Source Operating

mREM/hrTable 1-14

A 40 mCi (1480 MBq) 109Cd source was used in the measurements, results were then adjusted and reported on the basis of a 50 mCi (1850 MBq) source.

A 20 mCi 55Fe(740 MBq) source was used in the measurements.

A 14 mCi (518 MBq) 241Am source was used in the measurements, results were then adjusted and reported on the basis of a 20 mCi (740 MBq) source.

A 5 microCurie (0.185 MBq) Calibration Shutter was used.



Shutter OpenWood

Shutter OpenMasonry

Shutter OpenSheet Rock

1 0.15 0.56 1.37 0.67 0.382 0.08 0.37 1.03 0.56 0.253



5 microCurie (0.185 MBq) Calibration Shutter and 109Cd Source Operating

mSv/hrTable 1-15


A 20 mCi 55Fe(740 MBq) source was used in the measurements.





Shutter OpenWood

Shutter OpenMasonry


1 0.0015 0.0056 0.0137 0.0067 0.00382 0.0008 0.0037 0.0103 0.0056 0.00253



5 microCurie (0.185 MBq) Calibration Shutter and 241Am Source Operating

mREM/hrTable 1-16



A 14 mCi 241Am (518 MBq) source was used in the measurements, results were then adjusted and reported on the basis of a 20 mCi (740 MBq) source.A 5 microCurie (0.185 MBq) Calibration Shutter was used



Shutter OpenWood

Shutter OpenMasonry


1 0.12 0.60 0.42 0.57 0.352 0.22 0.81 0.57 0.75 0.523



5 microCurie (0.185 MBq) Calibration Shutter and 241Am Source Operating

mSv/h Table 1-17



A 14 mCi 241Am (518 MBq) source was used in the measurements, results were then adjusted and reported on the basis of a 20 mCi (740 MBq) source.A 5 microCurie (0.185 MBq) Calibration Shutter was used.



Shutter OpenWood

Shutter OpenMasonry


1 0.0012 0.0060 0.0042 0.0057 0.00352 0.0022 0.0081 0.0057 0.0075 0.00523



5 micro Curie (0.185 MBq) Calibration Shutter and 55Fe Source Operating

mREM/hTable 1-18

A 40 mCi 109Cd (1480 MBq) source was used in the measurements, results were then adjusted and reported on the basis of a 50 mCi (1850 MBq) source.

A 20 mCi (740 MBq) 55Fe source was used in the measurements. A 14 mCi 241Am (518 MBq) source was used in the measurements, results were then adjusted and reported on the basis of a 20 mCi (740 MBq) source.A 5 micro Curie (0.185 MBq) Calibration Shutter was used.



Shutter OpenWood

Shutter OpenMasonry


1



5 micro Curie (0.185 MBq) Calibration Shutter and 55Fe Source Operating

mSv/hTable 1-19

A 40 mCi 109Cd (1480 MBq) source was used in the measurements, results were then adjusted and reported on the basis of a 50 mCi (1850 MBq) source.

A 20 mCi (740 MBq) 55Fe source was used in the measurements. A 14 mCi 241Am (518 MBq) source was used in the measurements, results were then adjusted and reported on the basis of a 20 mCi (740 MBq) source.A 5 micro Curie (0.185 MBq) Calibration Shutter was used.



Shutter OpenWood

Shutter OpenMasonry


1



5 microCurie (0.185 MBq) Calibration Shutter Operating, All Shutters Closed

mREM/hTable 1-20





POSITION Shutters ClosedStainless Steel

Shutters ClosedAluminum

Shutters ClosedWood

Shutters ClosedMasonry

Shutters ClosedSheet Rock

1



5 microCurie (0.185 MBq) Calibration Shutter Operating, All Shutters Closed

mSv/hTable 1-21





POSITION Shutters ClosedStainless Steel


Shutters ClosedWood


Shutters ClosedSheet Rock

1


Source of 40 mCi (1480 MBq) 55Fe5 microCurie (0.185 MBq) Calibration Shutter and 55Fe Source Operating

mREM/hTable 1-22

mSv/hrTable 1-23

Two 55Fe sources totaling 33 mCi (1221 MBq) 55Fe were used in the measure-ments, results were then adjusted and reported on the basis of a 40 mCi (1480 MBq) source.


POSITION Shutters OpenPlastic

Shutters OpenAluminum

Shutters OpenMasonry

1


Source of 40 mCi (1480 MBq) 55Fe5 microCurie (0.185 MBq) Calibration Shutter Operating

All Shutters Closed

mREM/hTable 1-24

mSv/hrTable 1-25



POSITION Shutters ClosedPlastic



1


Sources of 50 mCi (1850 MBq) 109Cd, 20 mCi (740 MBq) 241Am, 20 mCi (740 MBq) 55Fe and 40 mCi (1480 MBq) 55Fe

5 microCurie (0.185 MBq) Calibration Shutter OperatingDirectly in Front of Shutter

mREM/hrTable 1-26

mSv/hrTable 1-27






POSITION Shutter Open50 mCi 109Cd

Shutter Open20 mCi 241Am

Shutter Open20 mCi 55Fe

5 cm. 315 28.6 0.4530 cm. 18.2 15.0


Sources of 20 mCi (740 MBq) 55Feand 30 mCi (1110 MBq) 241Am

Directly in Front of Shutter

mREM/hrTable 1-28

mSv/hrTable 1-29

A 20 mCi (740 MBq) 55Fe source was used in the measurements. A 30 mCi (1110 MBq) 241Am source was used in the measurements.

POSITION Shutter Open30 mCi 241Am

Shutter Open20 mCi 55Fe

5 cm. 122. 0.4530 cm. 7.90

Chapter1:RadiationSafetyView of the Underside of the XLp Analyzer Showing Proper Placement of General and State Specific Radiation Labels


Chapter2:TheMenuSystemChapter 2

THE MENU SYSTEM

The NITON XLp Menu System enables you to perform critical tasks, including taking readings and viewing and moving data, with a minimum number of steps. Menus are presented as small pictures called icons which, when selected, will do one of three things:

1. Toggle between two different functions or views, such as turn-ing backlighting on or off.

2. Present a subsidiary or sub-menu which will allow you access to more choices.

3. Present a screen which allows you to view data, edit data, or control the instrument.

Icons which appear on your NITON instrument screen display in light gray (grayed out) represent features which are not enabled, and therefore cannot be selected. In order to enable features on your NITON instrument which are currently not enabled, please contact Thermo Electron Corporation in the United States, toll free, at (800) 875-1578, or outside the United States, at +1-978-670-7460, or your local Authorized NITON Service Center.

Icons which appear on your NITON instrument screen display with a diagonal line through them represent features which are currently turned off. When an icon with a diagonal line through it is selected, the diagonal line through that icon will automatically be erased, and the feature corresponding to that icon will automatically become enabled.NITONXLp500SeriesMiningAnalyzerUsersGuideChapter21

Chapter2:TheMenuSystemTHE MAIN MENU

All NITON XLp instruments functions are accessible from the Main Menu and subsidiary menus. Each of the instrument func-tions represented by an icon on the Main Menu screen (Test, Mode, Utilities, Data, and Common Setup) may be selected by choosing the appropriate icon. When one of these Main Menu icons is selected, the function specific sub-menu appropriate to that icon will be displayed.

In order to test samples in the previously used test mode, simply select the Test icon. Your NITON XLp analyzer will operate in the testing mode that is currently selected. Choose an appropriate test mode for the samples you are testing by selecting a mode from the Mode Menu.

Access the Mode Menu by selecting the Mode icon from the Main Menu screen. The instrument will remember the last mode used on the instrument, and will use that mode by default unless another mode is selected.

Access the Utilities Menu by selecting the Utilities icon from the Main Menu screen. The Utilities Menu enables you to view instrument specifications; set the date and time; auto-calibrate the instrument electronics and the touch screen display; and update and maintain entry passwords and user profiles.


Chapter2:TheMenuSystemAccess the Data Menu by selecting the Data icon from the Main Menu screen. The Data Menu allows you to view readings, and allows you to view the alloy library and stored signatures.

Access the Common Setup Menu by selecting the Common Setup icon from the Main Menu screen. The Common Setup Menu allows you to turn on or off the liquid crystal display back-light, turn on or off the integrated bar code scan engine, to enable and configure source utilization, and to enable or disable the printer.

Return to the Logon screen by selecting the Logoff icon. The Logon Screen logs you out and allows you to login again, prevent-ing casual unauthorized access to your analyzer.NITONXLp500SeriesMiningAnalyzerUsersGuideChapter23

Chapter2:TheMenuSystemTHE MODE MENU

The Mode Menu enables you to select any one of the sample test modes that have been installed on your NITON XLp analyzer.

Select the Alloy icon to access any one of the alloy testing modes. The Alloy Modes enables you to test metal alloys for chemical composition and/or alloy identification. The Alloy Testing Modes are detailed in Chapter 3 of this User's Guide.

The Pb Paint Mode allows you to determine lead (Pb) loading in paint samples in units of mg/cm2, and to determine if paint samples are above or below the user-defined action level for lead in the shortest time possible. The Pb Paint Mode is detailed in chapter 4 of this Users Guide.

Select the Thin Sample Mode icon to access the Thin Sample Mode Menu, where you may choose a thin sample testing mode appropriate to the samples you will be testing. The Thin Sample Testing Modes allow you to analyze thin samples, such as dust wipes and air filters, and coatings for elemental analysis. The Thin Sample Test Modes are detailed in Chapter 5 of this User's Guide.


Chapter2:TheMenuSystemSelect the Bulk Sample Mode icon to access Bulk Sample Mode. The Bulk Sample Mode allows you to analyze soil, mining, and other thick samples for metallic composition and/or contamination. The Bulk Sample Mode is detailed in Chapter 6 of this Users Guide.

Select the User Definable Mode icon to access User Definable Mode. The User Definable Mode allows you to create your own protocols and methods for your own use. The User Definable Mode is detailed in Chapter 7 of this Users Guide.NITONXLp500SeriesMiningAnalyzerUsersGuideChapter25

Chapter2:TheMenuSystemTHE UTILITIES MENU

To access the Utilities Menu, select the Utilities icon from the Main Menu display. The Utilities Menu enables you to view your NITON instrument specifications, set the date and time, auto-cali-brate your NITON's detector or touch screen display, Rotate the dis-play on the LCD screen, or change the communication (baud) rate for the RS-232 port.

Select the Calibrate icon to access the Calibrate Menu. The Cali-brate Menu allows you to calibrate the detector or to calibrate the touch screen.

Select the Specs icon to display the instrument's specifications. These specifications include your NITON XLp's serial number, software and firmware versions, temperature, bias, and data copro-cessors. Press the enter button to return to the Utilities Menu.


Chapter2:TheMenuSystemSelect 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 format used is month/day/year - MM/DD/YY, and hour/minute - HH/MM, for the 24 hour clock.

When the Date & Time icon is selected, the Date & Time screen comes up on your XLp's LCD Screen. Initially, the first character of the month is highlighted in reverse video (white on black), as in the sample display shown here. To change a character, select the digit you want to replace the character with from the virtual numeric keypad displayed on the screen, then select the Enter (E) character from the virtual numeric keypad. Your NITON XLp will then accept the entry and automatically advance to the next digit. To skip a character, simply select the Enter (E) character from the virtual numeric keypad without selecting a replacement character.

For example, on the sample display, if you wish to change the "06" of the month to "07", the display appears with the first character (0) highlighted. Select the Enter (E) character to skip the zero. The "6" will now be highlighted. Select the "7" digit from the virtual numeric keypad, then select the Enter (E) key from the virtual numeric keypad. The change is accepted and the next digit is high-lighted. Continue to select the Enter (E) symbol from the virtual numeric keypad to skip over the remaining characters of the date and time until the last character is reached. When you select the Enter (E) key from the virtual numeric keypad to confirm the last

Numeric keypad

Highlighted numeral

TimeDate


Chapter2:TheMenuSystemcharacter, the word "SUCCESS" will appear beneath the Date field, and you will be returned to the Main Menu. The date is given in month/day/year format.

Caution

Your XLp analyzer must have the correct time and date set in order to test samples correctly using either the 109Cd or 55Fe radioisotope sources. Please make sure that the time and date are set correctly before testing.

WARNING!

It is important that the date and time information displayed on the Date and Time screen is correct. If either the date or time is incorrect, the information stored with your readings will be incorrect. In addition, an incorrect date prevents the instrument from properly compensating for normal source decay - causing erroneous analysis results for instruments equipped with 109Cd or 55Fe sources. This informa-tion must be correct before proceeding with testing.

The instrument will automatically return you to the Main Menu when the entry is complete.

Select the Current Baud Rate icon to change the communications rate for the RS-232 port. Selecting the Current Baud Rate icon will toggle the communications rate between 115 kbaud and 38 kbaud. The default 115 kbaud rate may be too fast for some older computers, and dropping the rate to 38 kbaud will insure proper communications between your PC and your NITON XLp Analyzer.

Select the Rotate Screen icon to toggle the orientation of the screen between right side up and upside down. This is used primarily when your analyzer is placed in the NITON Mining Test Stand, because the analyzer is inverted when properly installed in the Test Stand.

!


Chapter2:TheMenuSystem THE DATA MENU

To access the Data Menu, select the Data icon from the Main Menu display. The Data Menu enables you to access readings and libraries, for viewing or manipulation.

Select the View Data icon in order to view previously taken test result readings. When the View Data icon is selected, the Results screen of your most recent test is shown on the LCD display.

Using the buttons on the control panel, you may view different readings or additional data for different readings. the "Left" posi-tion on the 4-way touch pad of your NITON XLp Analyzer will dis-play the previous reading, or if the first reading is currently displayed, the last reading. Pressing the "Right" position on the 4-way touch pad will display the next reading, or if the last reading is currently displayed, the first reading. The NITON XLp 500 Series Analyzer can store up to 3000 readings.

You can also look at the complete x-ray spectra for each reading stored in your NITON XLp 500 Series Analyzer's memory.

For any reading result, simply use the on/off/escape button to gain access to the screen buttons at the bottom of the screen. Selecting RETN (Return) will take you to the previous menu. Selecting DATA will show the Data Entry parameters for the Reading. Selecting SPTR (Spectrum) will show a graphed spectrum of this reading, called SpectraView. SpectraView can be a useful tool for rapid, qualitative analysis of sample chemistries. See Appendix C: SpectraView for details.

Figure 2-5aNITONXLp500SeriesMiningAnalyzerUsersGuideChapter29

Chapter2:TheMenuSystemSelect the Erase icon to access the Erase Menu. The Erase Menu allows you to erase your data.

Caution

Never turn off the instrument while data is being erased!

WARNING!

Do not attempt to take measurements while downloading read-ings! This will generate an error requiring a system reset, and may corrupt your stored readings, requiring all stored readings to be erased.

Select the View Libraries icon to access the Library View Menu. The Library View Menu allows you to view data in the Grade Library as well as the Superlib and Superstds libraries.

Select the View Signatures icon to view data saved as reference sample signatures in Signature ID Mode. When the View Data icon is selected, the Results screen of your most recent test is shown on the LCD display.

Select the More icon to access the second page of the Data Menu.

Figure 2-7

!


Chapter2:TheMenuSystemTHE DATA MENU - SECOND PAGE

To access the Data Menu Second Page, select the More icon from the Data Menu display. The Data Menu enables you to access readings and libraries, for viewing or deleting.

Select the View SuperChem icon in order to view your SuperChem data. The SuperChem View icon allows you to view your SuperChem Mode data, and also allows you to delete indi-vidual readings.When the View Data icon is selected, the Results screen of your most recent test is shown on the LCD display.

Select the View SuperPrec icon in order to view your SuperPrec data. The View SuperPrec icon allows you to view your Super-Prec Mode data, and also allows you to delete individual SuperChem standards.When the View Data icon is selected, the Results screen of your most recent test is shown on the LCD dis-play.

Figure 2-5bNITONXLp500SeriesMiningAnalyzerUsersGuideChapter211

Chapter2:TheMenuSystemTHE VIEW LIBRARIES MENU

To access the View Libraries Menu, select the View Libraries icon from the Data Menu. The View Libraries Menu enables you to view reference data from your analyzers libraries.

Select the View Grade Library icon to view your Grade Library, which is set by NITON. The entries in the Grade Library serve as a reference for chemistry based analysis. The library entries allow the analyzer to work properly out of the box without needing time-consuming pre-analysis. Please refer to the NDT User Guide for information on modifying the Grade Library.

Select the View SuperStds icon in order to view your SuperStds Alloy library.

Select the View Additional Library icon in order to view your Additional Library alloys, which you may have uploaded to your XLp Analyzer with the NDTl utility. If you have not uploaded an additional library, the View Additional Library icon will be grayed-out and the View Additional Library function will be unavailable.


Chapter2:TheMenuSystemTHE COMMON SETUP MENU

To access the Common Setup Menu, select the Common Setup icon from the Main Menu display. The Common Setup Menu gives you access to various NITON XLp instrument functions, including touch screen display backlighting and the built in bar code scanner, and enables you to configure the way the sources contained in your NITON XLp analyzer are used in sample testing.

Select the Hardware Setup icon to access the Hardware Setup Menu. The Hardware Setup Menu allows you to toggle the dis-play backlight on or off, toggle the built-in bar code scanner on or off, set up the analyzer to use a welding mask, or access the Hot-foot Mode.

Select the Set Protocol icon to bring up the Set Protocol Menu. The Set Protocol Menu allows you to control source utilization by enabling and disabling individual sources, set the time between source autoswitching, and control the match number triggering source autoswitching.

Select the Set Cal Factors (Ind Bulk) icon to bring up the Set Cal Factors Menu. The Set Cal Factors Menu allows you to correct for the presence of certain light elements in a Bulk Mode test matrix which may influence the readings, even though they are not quanti-fied by the analyzer.

Select the Serial Output icon to access the Serial Output Menu. The Serial Output Menu allows you to download data across a


Chapter2:TheMenuSystemserial line or a Bluetooth wireless connection from your instrument to a computer, printer, or other computing device.NITONXLp500SeriesMiningAnalyzerUsersGuideChapter214

Chapter2:TheMenuSystemTHE CALIBRATE MENU

To access the Calibrate Menu, select the Calibrate icon from the Utilities Menu. The Calibrate Menu enables you to re-calibrate the instrument's touch screen display interface and to automatically re-calibrate your instrument's sample analysis electronics.

Select the Calibrate Detector icon to re-calibrate the instrument's electronics. As soon as the icon is selected, calibration will begin. The instrument is programmed to calibrate for a specific, predeter-mined period in order to ensure proper operation of your NITON XLp analyzer in the field. The instrument calibration screen will be displayed until calibration is complete. After the calibration has fin-ished, the calibration results will be displayed. Press the on/off/escape button or the Return icon to return to the Main Menu. In order to insure good test results, it is essential that you calibrate your NITON XLp 500 Series Analyzer's detector if a check sample test reveals discrepancies in the reading.

Select the Calibrate Touch Screen icon to re-calibrate the instru-ment's touch screen display. This procedure establishes the display boundaries for the touch screen interface. When the Calibrate Touch Screen icon is selected, the display will show the message: "Calibrate Touch Screen". There will be a small cross in the upper left-hand corner of the display. Tap on this cross with the stylus, and the cross will disappear and reappear in the lower left-hand corner of the screen. Tap on the cross again, and it will reappear in the lower right-hand corner of the screen. Tap on the cross again and it will reappear in the top right-hand corner of the screen. Tap on the


Chapter2:TheMenuSystemcross once more, and the Logon Screen will appear. Logon as nor-mal, and you will be presented with the Main Menu


Chapter2:TheMenuSystemTHE ERASE MENU

To access the Erase Menu, select the Erase icon from the Data Menu. The Erase Menu enables you to delete data from your ana-lyzer, allowing you to gain storage space for more recent data. You should only erase data which you have already transferred to per-manent storage, or when requested to do so by NITON service per-sonnel.

Select the Erase All Data icon to erase all data, including signa-tures and SuperChem reference readings, from your analyzer. Selecting the Erase All Data icon will bring up a confirmation screen (see Figure 2-13) asking you Are you sure? with options to select YES or NO. Selecting YES will erase all reading data from your analyzer. Selecting NO will return you to the Erase Menu.

Select the Erase Readings icon to erase all accumulated test read-ings from your analyzer. Selecting the Erase Readings icon will bring up a confirmation screen (see Figure 2-13) asking you Are you sure? with options to select YES or NO. Selecting YES will erase all test reading data from your analyzer. Selecting NO will return you to the Erase Menu.

Select the Erase Signatures icon to erase all accumulated alloy sig-natures from your analyzer. Selecting the Erase Signatures icon will bring up a confirmation screen (see Figure 2-13) asking you Are you sure? with options to select YES or NO. Selecting YES will erase all signature data from your analyzer. Selecting NO will return you to the Erase Menu.


Chapter2:TheMenuSystemSelect the Erase SuperChem icon to erase accumulated SuperChem reference readings from your analyzer. Selecting the Erase SuperChem icon will bring up a confirmation screen (see Figure 2-13) asking you Are you sure? with options to select YES or NO. Selecting YES will erase all SuperChem refer-ence reading data from your analyzer. Selecting NO will return you to the Erase Menu.


Chapter2:TheMenuSystemTHE SERIAL OUTPUT MENU

Select the Download Regions icon to toggle the configuration of the serial port to the task of exporting Regions data to your com-puter.

Select the Download Spectra icon to toggle the configuration of the serial port to the task of exporting Spectral data to your com-puter.

Select the Printer icon to toggle the configuration of the serial port to the task of sending your data to the printer. Enabling the Printer icon will disable Live Serial Output.

Select the Live Serial Output icon to toggle the serial post to the task of sending continuous data updates to an external device. Live Serial Output is very useful for online applications with continu-ous monitoring of a product stream. Enabling Live Serial Output icon will disable the Printer.


Chapter2:TheMenuSystemTHE SET PROTOCOL MENU

For NITON XLp analyzers equipped with more than one radioiso-tope source, the Set Protocol Menu enables you to directly enable or disable any source, control the time that a source irradiates the sample before auto-switching to another source, and select the chi-squared deviation cutoff for auto-switching between sources.

Select the Enable Sources icon from the Set Protocol Menu to bring up the Source Menu. From the Source Menu, you may choose exactly which of the sources contained in your NITON XLp analyzer will be used for sample testing.

Select the Source Switch on Time Only icon from the Set Proto-col Menu to toggle Time Switch Only Mode on or off. In Time Switch Only Mode, the NITON XLp analyzer will ignore the match number and only switch sources according to the time inter-val you set in the Source Auto-Switch Time menu.

Select the Source Auto-Switch Time icon from the Set Protocol Menu to display the Source Time Menu. The Source Time Menu enables you to set the number of seconds each enabled source is allotted before auto-switching will occur when needed during sam-ple testing. Your NITON XLp analyzer will auto-switch from one source to another when the testing time for that source is greater than or equal to the time you have chosen, the match number for that source is lower than the match number you have set, and the


Chapter2:TheMenuSystemidentified alloy is flagged as needing the switch in the NITON Alloy Library.

Select the Source Auto-switch Match Num. icon from the Set Protocol Menu to display the Source Match Menu. The Source Match Menu enables you to set the chi-squared deviation (match number) below which the instrument will auto-switch to the next enabled source during alloy sample testing.

Select the Set Maximum Measurement Time icon from the Set Protocol Menu to display the Max Time Screen. The Max Time Screen allows you to set a cap on the maximum time any sample is allowed to be analyzed. This allows you to set up a sample in a NITON Test Stand for a reading without having to time the reading manually. In the field, the maximum measurement time feature also allows you to control measurement time in noisy or otherwise dis-tracting environments.

The Max Time Screen displays a virtual touchpad, similar to the ones used for logging on and setting the clock. At the top left is the name of the screen. At the bottom left is the current measurement time in source seconds. Select C to clear the current maximum measurement time, then key in the time you want to use as a mea-surement cap with the number keys. Select E to enter the time, and the maximum measurement time will be reset to the new value.


Chapter2:TheMenuSystemTHE HARDWARE SETUP MENU

The Hardware Setup Menu enables you to toggle various options on or off, as well as select certain hardware dependant modes.

Select the Backlight icon to toggle the built in touch screen display backlight off and on. Select the Backlight icon to turn the backlight off. The display will then show the Backlight icon with a slash through it. Select the Backlight icon with a slash through it to turn the backlight on. The display will then show the Backlight icon without a slash through it.

Figure 2-17

Backlight ON Backlight OFF


Chapter2:TheMenuSystem Caution

Enabling the backlight will reduce your battery pack operating time, requiring more frequent recharges.

Select the Scan Engine icon from the Set Protocol Menu to toggle the Data Entry Screens on or off. If the Data Entry Screens are currently enabled, you can select the Scan Engine icon to disable data entry. The display will then show the Scan Engine icon with a slash through it. If the Data Entry Screens are currently disabled, you can select the Scan Engine icon to enable data entry. The dis-play will then show the Scan Engine icon without a slash through it.

Select the Welding Mask icon from the Set Protocol Menu to adjust for the presence or absence of a welding mask. Welding Mask Mode requires additional hardware and special calibration. Welding Mask Mode should not be used without the welding mask hardware to ensure proper analysis, as the calibration adjusts to compensate for the changed geometry when using the welding mask. When the Welding Mask icon is displayed with a diagonal line through it, Welding Mask Mode is disabled. Selecting the Welding Mask icon will toggle Welding Mask Mode between an enabled state and a disabled state. When changing from Welding Mask Mode to normal use and back, remember to enable or disable Welding Mask Mode as appropriate.

Some nations have laws or regulations which prohibit use of this feature. In this case, the feature will be disabled before shipping.

Note: If the Welding Mask Icon is grayed out contact Thermo Electron Corporation or your local NITON Sales representative to have Welding Mask mode installed on your instrument.

Select the Proximity Start Button icon from the Set Protocol Menu to toggle the use of the front proximity button. This enables the proximity button to be used to start taking a sample on contact. Selecting the Proximity Start Button icon again turns the proxim-ity button off.

Some nations have laws or regulations which prohibit use of this feature. In this case, the feature will be disabled before shipping.


Chapter2:TheMenuSystemTHE SOURCE MENU

The Source Menu enables you to select exactly which sources will be activated during sample testing. Testing modes auto-switch between sources, based on the testing time and the match number parameters set for the instrument. You may disable a source if you know that the samples you are testing do not need that source for discrimination.

Select the Enable Cd/Tube icon to toggle the 109Cd source x-ray tube between the enabled and disabled states. When the 109Cd source is disabled, the Enable Cd/Tube icon will appear on the Source Filter Menu display with a black diagonal line running through the icon. When the 109Cd source is enabled, there is no diagonal line through the icon.

Select the Enable Fe55 icon to toggle the 55Fe source between the enabled and disabled states. When the 55Fe source is disabled, the Enable Fe55 icon will appear on the source display with a black diagonal line running through the icon. When the 55Fe source is enabled, there is no diagonal line through the icon.

Selecting the Enable Am241 icon will toggle the 241Am source between the enabled and disabled states. When the 241Am source is disabled, the Am source icon will appear on the source display with a black diagonal line running through the icon. When the 241Am source is enabled, there is no diagonal line through the icon.


Chapter2:TheMenuSystemTHE SOURCE TIME MENU

Select the Source Autoswitch Match Time icon from the Set Pro-tocol Menu screen to display the Source Time Menu. Selecting appropriate icons from the Source Time Menu enables you to change the number of seconds that are allotted to each source before your NITON XLp analyzer auto-switches to the next source during sample testing.

Your NITON XLp analyzer will auto-switch from one source to another when the testing time for that source is greater than or equal to the time you have chosen and the match number for that source is lower than the match number you have set.

Select the Configure Cd109 icon to bring up the Source Time Configuration Screen for the 109Cd source. The Source Time Configuration Screen allows you to set the number of seconds the 109Cd source is used before auto-switching to the next enabled source during testing.

Select the Configure Fe55 icon to bring up the Source Time Con-figuration Screen for the 55Fe source. The Source Time Configu-ration Screen allows you to set the number of seconds the 55Fe source is used before auto-switching to the next enabled source dur-ing testing.


Chapter2:TheMenuSystemSelect the Configure Am241 icon to bring up the Source Time Configuration Screen for the 241Am source. The Source Time Configuration Screen allows you to set the number of seconds the 241Am source is used before auto-switching to the next enabled source during testing.

The Source Time Configuration Screen enables you to select the number of seconds each source will be used during a sample analy-sis. In the center, the display screen is dominated by a virtual numeric keypad. At the bottom left of the screen is the number of seconds the selected source is allotted during testing (Example: 20.4.)

To change the configuration for the selected source, clear the cur-rent number with the Clear key C, then change the number using the virtual numeric keypad, selecting the digits in order, then select enter (E). For example, to change the time from 20.4 seconds to 10.5 seconds: select C, then select "1", then select "0", then select ".", then select "5", then select "E". The source measurement time setting will be changed, and you will return to the previous menu.

Current Mode

Source seconds allotted

Enterkey

Clearkey


Chapter2:TheMenuSystem THE SOURCE MATCH NUMBER MENU

Select the Source Autoswitch Match Number icon from the Set Protocol Menu screen to display the Source Match Number Menu. Selecting appropriate icons from the Source Match Num-ber Menu enables you to change the match number each source must reach before your NITON XLp analyzer auto-switches to the next source during sample testing.

Your NITON XLp analyzer will auto-switch from one source to another when the match number for that source is lower than the match number you have chosen and the time for that source is greater than or equal to the time you have set.

Select the Configure Cd109 icon to bring up the Source Match Number Configuration Screen for the 109Cd source. The Source Match Number Configuration Screen allows you to set the match number the 109Cd source is compared to before auto-switching to the next enabled source during testing.

Select the Configure Fe55 icon to bring up the Source Match Number Configuration Screen for the 55Fe source. The Source Match Number Configuration Screen allows you to set the match number the 55Fe source is compared to before auto-switching to the next enabled source during testing.


Chapter2:TheMenuSystemSelect the Configure Am241 icon to bring up the Source Time Configuration Screen for the 241Am source. The Source Time Configuration Screen allows you to set the match number the 241Am source is compared to before auto-switching to the next enabled source during testing.

The Source Match Number Configuration Screen enables you to select the match number each source will be compared to during a sample analysis. The source being configured is displayed in the upper left hand corner of the screen display (Example: Fe55) along with the parameter being configured (Example: Time.) In the cen-ter, the display screen is dominated by a virtual numeric keypad. At the bottom left of the screen is the match number the selected source is to be compared to during testing (Example: 2.0).

To change the configuration for the selected source, clear the cur-rent setting with the Clear key C, then change the number using the virtual numeric keypad, selecting the digits in order, then select enter (E). For example, to change the match number from 2.0 sec-onds to 3.0: select C, then select "3", then select ".", then select "0", then select "E". The source match number setting will be changed, and you will return to the previous menu.

Current Mode

Source match number

Enterkey

Clearkey


Chapter2:TheMenuSystemINDUSTRIAL BULK CALIBRATION FACTORS

Use Industrial Bulk mode when you expect that the element of interest to you will be more than 1% of the total sample. If you expect that the element of interest to you will be less than 1% of the total sample, use Standard Soil mode.

Within Industrial Bulk mode there are two sub-modes; Industrial Bulk (Cu / Zn / Pb) and Industrial Bulk (Ta / Hf / Re). Use Indus-trial Bulk (Ta / Hf / Re) mode only if you are specifically looking for compounds that contain those elements. If you are not specifi-cally looking for compounds that contain tantalum, hafnium, or rhenium, then start by using Industrial Bulk (Cu / Zn / Pb) mode. This mode is more common than Industrial Bulk (Ta / Hf / Re) mode.

The XRF Analyzer can quickly identify and measure the presence of many elements, but it can not detect the lighter elements, such as carbon and silicon. However, concentrations of these lighter ele-ments can affect the measurement of the heavier elements. Calibra-tion factors are used to correct for the presence of these light elements in the sample matrix.

Industrial Bulk mode lets you calculate your own site-specific cali-bration factors and add them to the XRF Analyzer.

When you begin using the XRF Analyzer, NITON recommends that you test the XRF Analyzer against known samples of the mate-rial of interest, and add calibration factors, if needed.

When you change to a material that has a different matrix, such as moving from a matrix with high carbon content to a matrix with high silicon content, NITON recommends that you again test the XRF Analyzer against known samples. If the XRF Analyzer still provides results that are accurate enough for your needs, you can continue to use it without changing the calibration factors. How-ever, if the change in the matrix of the sample causes a change in the results from the XRF Analyzer, such that they are no longer accurate enough for your needs, then calculate new calibration fac-tors for the new sample type.NITONXLp500SeriesMiningAnalyzerUsersGuideChapter229

Chapter2:TheMenuSystemDisplaying the Calibration FactorsTo display the calibration factors:

1. From the Main menu of the XRF Analyzer, select Mode.2. Select Bulk Sample Mode.3. Select the Industrial Bulk mode for which you want to display

the calibration factors.4. Press the Escape button to return to the main menu.5. Select Mode.6. Select Bulk Sample Mode.7. Select Set Protocol. The XRF Analyzer displays the list of cali-

bration factors; the slope and intercept for each element.

The Calibration Factors MenuTo access the Calibration Factors menu, display the calibration fac-tors as described in Displaying the Calibration Factors on page 30.

Press the Escape button to toggle between the Calibration Factors menu and the list of calibration factors.

The mode that you specified

Calibration factors menu

Element Slope Intercept

FIGURE 2-24NITONXLp500SeriesMiningAnalyzerUsersGuideChapter230

Chapter2:TheMenuSystemPress the Enter button to select an option on the menu, or touch the option on the screen to select it. The options are:

Adjusting the Calibration Factors Calibration factors are used to adjust for consistently high or con-sistently low readings from the XRF Analyzer.

They are calculated by graphing the data points created by plotting the percentage of each element as indicated by standard samples, against the percentage of each element as reported by the XRF Analyzer.

Then the linear regression function is used to calculate the slope and intercept for a straight line that best fits these data points. The slope and intercept of this line are the calibration factors.

Calculating calibration factors requires several steps:

1. Resetting the Calibration Factors2. Measuring Standard Samples3. Calculating Calibration Factors4. Adding the Calibration Factors to the XRF Analyzer

These steps are described in detail below.

Resetting the Calibration FactorsTo reset the calibration factors to the defaults:

1. Display the calibration factors. See Displaying the Calibration Factors on page 30 for detailed instructions.

2. Press the Escape button to switch to the Calibration Factors Menu.

Option What it does

UP Page up through the list of calibration factors

DN Page down through the list of calibration factors

SA Save any changes that you have made in the calibration factors

AB Exit the list of calibration factors without saving any changes that you have made

RES Reset the list of calibration factors to the defaultsNITONXLp500SeriesMiningAnalyzerUsersGuideChapter231

Chapter2:TheMenuSystem3. Press RES on the Calibration Factors Menu. The XRF Analyzer resets the calibration factors to the defaults.

See The Calibration Factors Menu on page 30 for a description of each of the options available on the Calibration Factors Menu.

Measuring the Standard SamplesUse the XRF Analyzer to take readings of samples for which you already know the composition of the sample. It is important that the known composition of these samples be accurate. These samples provide the baseline to which the XRF Analyzer is adjusted. If the known composition is inaccurate, the XRF Analyzer will also be inaccurate.

For each sample, take a reading of at least 120 seconds. Make a note of the reading numbers for these samples.

For each sample, the XRF Analyzer reports the percentage by weight for the elements present in the sample. With the calibration factors set to the defaults, these percentages will differ from the known percentages, but are used to calculate the calibration factors.

Note: Readings from only two samples are required for each element, but increasing the number of readings also increases the accuracy of the results.

Calculating Calibration FactorsUsing the data that you collected by measuring the standard sam-ples, you now need to plot the percentage of each element as indi-cated by the standard samples, against the percentage of each element as reported by the XRF Analyzer. Then use the linear regression function to calculate the slope and intercept for a straight line drawn through a graph of those data points.

The slope and intercept for this line are the calibration factors for the element.

You may use any tools that you prefer to make this calculation. This document shows one possible method, using Excel. NITONXLp500SeriesMiningAnalyzerUsersGuideChapter232

Chapter2:TheMenuSystemNote: The XRF Analyzer reports percentages of elements, and the cal-ibration factors are based on percentages of elements. If your stan-dard samples indicate percentages of oxides, see Oxide Conversion on page 40 to convert percentages of oxides to percentages of ele-ments.

Calculating Calibration Factors Using Excel

Note: NITON also provides CorrectCalcTM, an Excel-based software program that calculates the calibration factors. It also provides some additional calculations and a graph of your data. For more information, see the CorrectCalc Manual, which is provided as a PDF file on the NDT Software CD.

To calculate calibration factors:

1. Open Excel. To do this:1. Click the Start button.2. Select Programs.3. Click Microsoft Excel.

Click Start Click Microsoft Excel

Select Programs FIGURE 2-25NITONXLp500SeriesMiningAnalyzerUsersGuideChapter233

Chapter2:TheMenuSystem2. In the first column, enter all the percentages by weight for the element as reported by the XRF Analyzer.

3. In the second column, enter all the percentages by weight for the element as indicated by each standard.

4. Use the cursor to highlight all the numbers in both columns.

5. Click Chart Wizard.

Percentages by weight as indicated by each standard

Percentages by weight as reported by the XRF Analyzer

FIGURE 2-26


Chapter2:TheMenuSystem6. Select the Scatter Chart with data points that are not connected by lines.

7. Click Finish.8. Right-click on one of the data points.9. Click Add Trendline on the pop-up menu.

Note: If you do not have Add Trendline as an option on this menu, see Adding the Analysis ToolPak to Excel: on page 41 for instructions.

Click to select the scatter chart without lines

Click Finish

FIGURE 2-28

Click Add Trendline


Chapter2:TheMenuSystem10. On the Type tab, click Linear.

11. On the Options tab, check the boxes for Display equation on chart and Display R-squared value on chart.

12. Click OK.

Click Linear

FIGURE 2-30

Click OK

Check these boxes


Chapter2:TheMenuSystem13. The equation shows the slope and intercept for the trend line. These are the calibration factors that you enter into the XRF Analyzer.

Note: If the intercept is negative in the equation, be sure that you enter the intercept as negative in the XRF Analyzer.

14. Repeat these steps to find the slope and intercept for every ele-ment that you are interested in.

Slope Intercept


Chapter2:TheMenuSystemAdding the Calibration Factors to the XRF AnalyzerTo add the calibration factors to the XRF Analyzer:

1. Display the calibration factors. See Displaying the Calibration Factors on page 30 for detailed instructions.

2. Use the 4-way touch pad to highlight the value that you want to change.

The value to be changed

Element Slope Intercept


Chapter2:TheMenuSystem3. Press the Enter button to modify the value.

This screen is similar to the one that you used to log on, and should be used in a similar manner. Use Clear (C) or Backspace (

Chapter2:TheMenuSystemOxide ConversionIf the composition of your standard sample is specified in percent-age of oxide, multiply that percentage by the conversion factor in the table to find the percentage of the element. For example, if the standard sample contains 4% TiO2, it contains 2.398% Ti:

4 * 0.5995 = 2.398

Oxide Conversion Factor

TiO2 0.5995

V2O5 0.5602

Cr2O3 0.6842

Mn3O4 0.7203

MnO 0.7745

Fe2O3 0.6994

FeO 0.7773

Co3O4 0.7342

NiO 0.7858

CuO 0.7988

ZnO 0.8034

PbO 0.9283

Fe2O3 0.6994

Bi2O3 0.8970

ZrO2 0.7403

MoO3 0.6665

WO3 0.7930

Ta2O5 0.8190

Nb2O5 0.6990

SnO2 0.7876NITONXLp500SeriesMiningAnalyzerUsersGuideChapter240

Chapter2:TheMenuSystemIf your standard sample contains a compound that is not listed in the table, you can calculate the percentage of the element using this formula:

Adding the Analysis ToolPak to Excel:1. Within Excel, select Add-Ins from the Tools menu.

2. Click the box for Analysis ToolPak

3. Click OK.

Note: If you need more information about the Analysis ToolPak, see the documentation for Excel.

(molecular weight of the element)

(molecular weight of the compound)* (% of compound) (% of element)=

FIGURE 2-35

Click the box for Analysis ToolPak

Click OK


Chapter3:AlloyTesting

NITONXLp500SeriesMiningAnalyzerUsersGuideChapter31

Chapter 3 ALLOY TESTING

USING ALLOY TESTING MODE

Alloy Testing Mode is not enabled on your NITON XLp analyzer. For more information on this feature please contact NITONs Customer Service Department in the United States, Toll free, at (800) 875-1578, or outside the United States at + 1-978-670-7460 or your authorized NITON Service Center.

Chapter4:PbPaintMode


Chapter 4 PB PAINT MODE

USING PB PAINT MODE

Pb Paint Mode is not enabled on your NITON XLp analyzer. For more information on this feature please contact NITONs Cus-tomer Service Department in the United States, Toll free, at (800) 875-1578, or outside the United States at + 1-978-670-7460 or your authorized NITON Service Center.

Chapter5:ThinSampleTestModes


Chapter 5 THIN SAMPLE TEST MODES

USING THIN SAMPLE TEST MODES

Thin Sample Test Modes are not enabled on your NITON XLp analyzer. For more information on this feature please contact NITONs Customer Service Department in the United States, Toll free, at (800) 875-1578, or outside the United States at + 1-978-670-7460 or your authorized NITON Service Center.

Chapter6:BulkSampleTestModesChapter 6 BULK SAMPLE TEST MODES

USING BULK SAMPLE TEST MODES

Bulk Sample Test Modes allow you to test ore and other ground samples for composition. Your NITON XLp Analyzer may be used for ore and other bulk analysis, either in-situ or ex-situ. NITONXLp 500 Series Mining Analyzer Users Guide Chapter 6 - 1

Chapter6:BulkSampleTestModesTHE BULK SAMPLE MODE MENU

All NITON XLp Bulk Mode functions are accessible from the Bulk Mode Menu and subsidiary menus. Each of the instrument functions represented by an icon on the Bulk Mode Menu screen may be selected by choosing the appropriate icon. When one of these Bulk Mode Menu icons is selected, the function specific sub-menu appropriate to that icon will be displayed.

To use the Standard Soil Mode, simply select the Standard Soil Testing icon from the Bulk Mode Menu to place your instrument into Standard Soil Mode. Use the Standard Soil Testing if:

The percentage of the elements of interest are

Chapter6:BulkSampleTestModessure concentrations of Hf, Ta, or Re in a sample. Once Industrial Bulk Cu/Zn/Pb Testing Mode is selected, you may begin testing samples.

Use Industrial Bulk Cu/Zn/Pb Testing Mode if:

There is more Cu/Pb/Zn than Ta/Hf/Re in the sa

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