Thermo Scientific XL3 RFID Module User Manual XL3 8 0

Thermo Scientific, Inc. RFID Module XL3 8 0

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User Manual.pdf

Thermo Fisher Scientific Niton AnalyzersXL3 AnalyzerVersion 8.0User’s Guide (Abridged)Revision A October 2011Refer to NITON XL3 Resource Guide for complete information
© 2010 Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. All rights reserved.
Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. provides this document to its customers with a product purchase to use in the product operation. This document is copyright protected and any reproduction of the whole or any part of this document is strictly prohibited, except with the written authorization of Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc.The contents of this document are subject to change without notice. All technical information in this document is for reference purposes only. System configurations and specifications in this document supersede all previous information received by the purchaser. Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. makes no representations that this document is complete, accurate or error-free 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.
ContentsThermo Scientific manual-name 1Chapter 0 Contact Us. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1Chapter 1 Manual Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1Warnings, Cautions, and Notes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1Figures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1Physical Buttons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2Other Hardware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2Chapter 2 Using Your Analyzer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3Safely and Effectively Using Your Analyzer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3Monitoring your radiation exposure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6Safe Handling of Samples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11Niton XL3t Radiation Profile . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13Niton XL3t GOLDD Plus Radiation Profile. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16Niton XL3p Radiation Profile . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20Primary Radiation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22Secondary Radiation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22Deep and Shallow Dose. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23Proper and Improper Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23Emergency Response Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30Startup Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32Battery Installation and Charging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33The Control Panel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38Startup Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40Performing a System Check. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42The Data Ports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49Power Port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49Using the Navigation (NAV) Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50Using the Tools Menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50Setting the Date and Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55Data Entry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60The Results Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62Chapter 3 How to Analyze . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65General Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66Chapter 4 Basic Operation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71Taking a Sample Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71Analysis Modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79Chapter 5 Common Operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .89Metal Sample Prep . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89Soil Sample Prep . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102Preparing Mining Samples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106Setting Up Beep Times . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
Contents2 manual-name Thermo ScientificSorting the Custom Element Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108Max Measure Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109Minumum Test Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109Virtual Keyboard. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110Setting Display Units . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113Adjusting the Element Range . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115Setting the Date and Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116Calibrating the Touch Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123Chapter 6 Data Management. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .125Viewing Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125Viewing Fingerprints. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132Erasing Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133Managing Libraries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138Chapter 7 Connectivity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .145Using Your Analyzer With Your PC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 151Connecting From Your Analyzer to Your PC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 153Using a USB Cable to Connect Your Analyzer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 157Downloading Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 159Chapter 7 Controlling Your Analyzer From Your PC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .169Chapter 8 Learning More, Service, and Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .173Replacing the Measurement Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 173Registration and Licensing FAQ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 181Storing and Transporting Your Niton XL3 Analyzer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 183Chapter 8 Advanced Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .185Tools Menu Options. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 191NDF Files: User Data Structuring. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 213Safety Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 225Camera and Small Spot Video. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 232Chapter 9 Helium Purged Analysis. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .243Chapter 9 Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .251Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 251
1Contact UsAmericas Europe Asianiton@thermofisher.com niton.eur@thermofisher.comNitonEurope.support@thermofisher.com niton.asia@thermofisher.comNitonAsia.Support@thermofisher.com
0 Contact Us2 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo Scientific
1 Manual OverviewWarnings, Cautions, and NotesThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 1Manual OverviewWarnings, Cautions, and NotesWarningsWarnings are extremely important recommendations, violating which may result in either injury to yourself or others, or damage to your analyzer and/or data. Warnings will always be identified as Warnings in the text, and will always be visually presented as follows:WARNING This is a Warning.Example Warning:WARNING Tampering with the 5,500 ppm (Lead high) lead-in-soil standard may cause exposure to lead dust. Keep all standards out of reach of children.CautionsCautions 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.Example Caution:CAUTION Never tamper with Test Standards. They should not be used unless they are completely intactNotesNotes 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.Example Note:Note For defensible Quality Control, keep a record of the time and precision of every calibrationFiguresFigures 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:
1 Manual OverviewPhysical Buttons2 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificFigure 1. This is a FigurePhysical ButtonsPhysical Buttons are actual buttons on the analyzer which must be pushed to activate their function. Physical Buttons will always be identified as Buttons in the text, and will always be visually presented as follows:This is a Physical Button.Example Physical Buttons:On/Off/Escape Button, Clear/Enter Button, Interlock Button, and Trigger Button.Other HardwareOther Hardware refers to any physical part of the analyzer which performs a necessary function. Other Hardware will always be visually presented as follows:This is an example of Other Hardware.Example Other Hardware:Battery, Touch Screen Display, Measurement Window, and USB Cable
2 Using Your AnalyzerSafely and Effectively Using Your AnalyzerThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 3Using Your AnalyzerThis 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 AnalyzerCAUTION Niton analyzers are not intrinsically safe analyzers. All pertinent Hot Work procedures should be followed in areas of concern.Radiation and General SafetyWARNING Always treat radiation with respect. Do not hold your analyzer near the measurement window during testing. Never point your analyzer at yourself or anyone else when the shutter is open. Radiation and General SafetyThis section covers topics related to radiation safety and general safety when using a Thermo Scientific Niton XL3 analyzer. At a minimum all operators of the analyzer should be familiar with the instructions provided in this chapter in order to handle the analyzer in a safe manner. In addition to reading the information presented on the following pages, Thermo Fisher Scientific recommends that instrument users participate in a radiation safety and operational training class.Radiation Protection BasicsThe 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
2 Using Your AnalyzerSafely and Effectively Using Your Analyzer4 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo Scientific2) 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.TimeThe longer you are exposed to a source of radiation the longer the radiation is able to interact in your body and the greater the dose you receive. Dose increases in direct proportion to length of exposure.DistanceThe 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.ShieldingShielding 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 RadiationHuman dose to radiation is typically measured in rem, or in one-thousandths of a rem, called millirem (mrem), 1 rem = 1000 mrem. Another unit of dose is the Sievert (Sv), 1 Sv = 100 rem. The allowable limit for occupational exposure in the U.S (and many other countries) is 5,000 mrem/year (50 mSv/year) for deep (penetrating) dose and 50,000 mrem/year (500 mSv/year) for shallow (i.e., skin) dose or dose to extremities. Deep, shallow, and extremity exposure from a properly used Niton 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.
2 Using Your AnalyzerSafely and Effectively Using Your AnalyzerThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 5Also, 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)Category Dose in mrem Dose in mSvAverage total dose in US (annual) 360 3.6Average worker exposure (annual) 210 2.1Average exposure for an underground miner 400 4.0Exposure for airline crew (1,000 hours at 35,000 ft) 500 5.0Additional from living in Denver at 5300’ (annual) 25 .25Additional from 4 pCi/l radon in home 1,000 10.0Typical Chest X-Ray 6 0.06Typical Head or Neck X-Ray 20 0.2Typical pelvis/hip x-ray 65 0.65Typical lumbar spine x-ray 30 0.3Typical Upper G.I. x-ray 245 2.45Typical Barium enema x-ray 405 4.05Typical CAT scan 110 1.10
2 Using Your AnalyzerMonitoring your radiation exposure6 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificMonitoring your radiation exposureIndividuals can be monitored for the radiation dose they receive by use of radiation dosimetry devices (dosimeters). Monitoring dose using a dosimeter can be a way of identifying improper use and at the same time demonstrating proper use. In some locations, dosimetry is required by regulations and in others it is optional. It is normally required when the user could reasonably be expected to receive in excess of 10% of the annual dose limit. Thermo Fisher Scientific recommends that you determine and obey the local regulatory requirements concerning radiation monitoring of occupational workers.Two common types of dosimeters are whole-body badges and ring badges. Whole body badges are often attached to the user’s torso (e.g., clipped to the collar, shirt pocket, or waist as appropriate). A ring badge is worn on the finger as a measure of maximum extremity dose. When worn, the specific location of the dosimeter should be that part of the body that is expected to receive the highest dose. This location will depend on how the analyzer is used and so it may not be the same for all users. Dosimetry services are offered by many companies. Two companies offering dosimetry services in the USA and much of the world are:Table 2. Annual Occupational Dose Limits for Radiation Workers (Source: Code of Federal Regulations Title 10, Part 20)Category Dose in mrem Dose in mSvWhole Body 5000 50Pregnant Worker (during gestation period) 500 5Eye Dose Equivalent 15,000 150Shallow dose equivalent to the skin or any extremity or organ 50,000 500Maximum allowable dose for the general public (annual) 100 1.0For a Minor 500 5.0
2 Using Your AnalyzerMonitoring your radiation exposureThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 7Note Wearing a dosimeter badge does not protect you against radiation exposure. A dosimeter badge only measures your exposure (at the dosimeter location).Pregnancy and Radiation ExposureInternational 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 SafelyThe Niton XL3t analyzer is designed to be safe to operate provided that it is used in accordance with manufacturer's instructions. Under conditions of normal use, monitored operators seldom receive a measurable dose and have not been known to receive in excess of 10% of the annual occupational dose limits (a criteria that would require monitoring under regulation in the U.S.). In addition to proper use of the XL3t, it is recommended that you follow these precautions to ensure your safety and the safety of those around you.Know where the beam isThe primary beam is a directed beam out of the front of the analyzer that can have high dose rates. The secondary beam, or scattered beam, has much lower dose rates.Table 3. DosimetersCompany Global Dosimetry Solutions Landauer, Inc.Address 2652 McGaw Avenue 2 Science RoadCity and State Irvine, CA 92614 Glenwood, IL 60425-9979Website www.dosimetry.com www.landauerinc.comPhone Number (800) 251-3331 (800) 323-8830
2 Using Your AnalyzerMonitoring your radiation exposure8 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificFigure 2. Primary Beam
2 Using Your AnalyzerMonitoring your radiation exposureThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 9Figure 3. Secondary (Scattered) Beam
2 Using Your AnalyzerMonitoring your radiation exposure10 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificThe Shutter-Open Indicator LightsWhen 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 LightsHandle and Use with RespectAvoid holding the front of the analyzer when the x-ray tube is energized and the shutter is open. Never point the instrument at yourself or anyone else when the shutter is open and the x-ray tube is energized. Never look into the path of the primary beam.Follow a Radiation Protection ProgramYour 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 XL3Keeping 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
2 Using Your AnalyzerSafe Handling of SamplesThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 11Avoid Over-ExposuresDirect contact with the window could result in overexposures in the times indicated inTable 4 below.Extremity is defined by the NRC as the hand, elbow, arm below the elbow, foot, knee, or leg below the knee. Whole Body is defined by the NRC as the head, trunk (including male gonads), arms above the elbow, or legs above the knee.*Based on maximum deep dose rate and US exposure limit.Safe Handling of SamplesAs mentioned many times in this chapter, never place any part of your body in the path of the x-ray beam. There is always a safe way to handle samples whether they are small, irregularly shaped, or of low density. Never look into the path of the primary beam.Small SamplesA 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.Table 4. Potential Exposure Limit TimesLocation of Dose Limit Time to Reach LimitDeep Dose / Whole Body 5 rem (50 mSv) 2.1 minutesShallow Dose / Extremities 50 rem (500 mSv) 0.95 minutesMember of Public (i.e. untrained operator)0.1 rem (1 mSv) 2.5 seconds*
2 Using Your AnalyzerSafe Handling of Samples12 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificIrregularly Shaped SamplesIrregularly 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 such as plastic. This causes higher dose rates in the scattered radiation. If you are frequently handling low density samples, you should consider the use of test stands, backscatter shields, or the equivalent.
2 Using Your AnalyzerNiton XL3t Radiation ProfileThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 13Niton XL3t Radiation ProfileRadiation Meter InformationModel: Bicron MicroRemSN: 2057Cal Due: 10/10/2009Background Radiation Level<0.01 mr/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 Scatter Measurements off various substrates - Dose Rates in mRem/hrTable 1-4 - Niton XL3t Radiation Profile - Scatter Measurements - mRem/hrkV uA Range Substrate Max @ 5cmMax @ 30 cmMax @ Trigger50 40EM, GM, S, T, IP, PM, DA, M, E, P (Main Filter)S, T, M, E (High Filter)Plastic 40 3.5 250 40EM, GM, S, T, IP, PM, DA, M, E, P (Main Filter)S, T, M, E (High Filter)Soil 8 0.4 0.0720 100 S, P, T, M, E (Low Filter) Aluminum 0.015 0.01 0.0120 100 S, P, T, M, E (Low Filter) Stainless 0.015 0.01 0.0120 100 S, P, T, M, E (Low Filter) Plastic 0.13 0.015 0.01520 100 S, P, T, M, E (Low Filter) Soil 0.015 0.015 0.01515 100 IP, EM (Low Filter) Aluminum 0.015 0.015 0.01515 100 IP, EM (Low Filter) Stainless 0.015 0.015 0.015
2 Using Your AnalyzerNiton XL3t Radiation Profile14 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificNotes:Scatter measurements were taken at a radius of 5 or 30 cm around the nose of the analyzer with the highest scatter dose rate being recorded.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 = PlasticTable 1-5 - Niton XL3t Radiation Profile - Scatter Measurements - µSv/hrkV uA Range Substrate Max @ 5cmMax @ 30 cmMax @ Trigger50 40EM, GM, S, T, IP, PM, DA, M, E (P (Main Filter)S, T, M, E (High Filter)Plastic 400 35 2050 40EM, GM, S, T, IP, PM, DA, M, E (P (Main Filter)S, T, M, E (High Filter)Soil 80 4 0.720 100 S, P, T, M, E (Low Filter) Aluminum 0.15 0.1 0.120 100 S, P, T, M, E (Low Filter) Stainless 0.15 0.1 0.120 100 S, P, T, M, E (Low Filter) Plastic 1.3 0.15 0.1520 100 S, P, T, M, E (Low Filter) Soil 0.15 0.15 0.1515 100 IP, EM (Low Filter) Aluminum 0.15 0.15 0.1515 100 IP, EM (Low Filter) Stainless 0.15 0.15 0.15
2 Using Your AnalyzerNiton XL3t Radiation ProfileThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 15In 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 = PlasticReported 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.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.Table 1-6 Niton XL3t Radiation Profile - In Beam Measurements - Rem/hrkV uA Range Contact DeepContact Shallow5cm Deep30 cm Shallow50 40EM, GM, S, T, IP, PM, DA, M, E, P (Main Filter)S, T, M, E (High Filter)110 410 8.4 1.320 100 S, P, T, M, E (Low Filter) 150 3200 0.52 0.0515 100 IP, EM (Low Filter) 14.0 1100 0.43 0.042Table 1-7 Niton XL3t Radiation Profile - In Beam Measurements - mSv/hrkV uA Range Contact DeepContact Shallow5cm Deep30cm Shallow50 40EM, GM, S, T, IP, PM, DA, M, E, P (Main Filter)S, T, M, E (High Filter)1100 4,100 84.0 1320 100 S, P, T, M, E (Low Filter) 1500 32000 5.2 0.5015 100 IP, EM (Low Filter) 140 11000 4.3 0.42
2 Using Your AnalyzerNiton XL3t GOLDD Plus Radiation Profile16 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificNiton XL3t GOLDD Plus Radiation ProfileNotes:*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=ThinReported 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.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=ThinReported 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.Table 1-8 - Niton XL3t GOLDD Plus Radiation Profile - In Beam Measurements - mSv/hrkV uA Range Contact DeepContact Shallow5cm Deep30cm Deep50 40 EM, MC, P, TA, PP (Main) M, S, T (High) 440 1300 74 5.350 40 GM, PM, M, S, IP (Main) 1500 3800 360 2220 100 EM, P, TA, M, S, T (Low) 690 19000 190 9.215 133.3 GM (Low) 240 13000 50 2.38 200 GM, P, M (Light) 0.30 17000 0.10 <0.003Table 1-9 - Niton XL3t GOLDD Plus Radiation Profile - In Beam Measurements - Rem/hrkV uA Range Contact DeepContact Shallow5cm Deep30cm Deep50 40 EM, MC, P, TA, PP (Main) M, S, T (High) 44 130 7.4 0.5350 40 GM, PM, M, S, IP (Main) 150 380 36 2.220 100 EM, P, TA, M, S, T (Low) 69 1900 19 0.9215 133.3 GM (Low) 24 1300 5.0 0.238 200 GM, P, M (Light) 0.030 1700 0.010 <0.0003
2 Using Your AnalyzerNiton XL3t GOLDD Plus Radiation ProfileThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 17Table 1-10 - Niton XL3t GOLDD Plus Radiation Profile - Scatter Measurements - mRem/hrkV uA Range Substrate Max @ 5cm Max @ 30 cmMax @ Trigger50 40EM, MC, P, TA, PP (Main) M, S, T (High)Steel 0.14 <0.01 <0.0150 40EM, MC, P, TA, PP (Main) M, S, T (High)Aluminum 2 <0.01 <0.0150 40EM, MC, P, TA, PP (Main) M, S, T (High)Soil 2 0.04 <0.0150 40EM, MC, P, TA, PP (Main) M, S, T (High)Plastic 10 0.45 650 40 GM, PM, M, S, IP (Main) Steel 0.3 <0.01 <0.0150 40 GM, PM, M, S, IP (Main) Aluminum 4 0.01 0.0150 40 GM, PM, M, S, IP (Main) Soil 4 0.09 <0.0120 100 EM, P, TA, M, S, T (Low) Soil <0.01 <0.01 <0.0120 100 EM, P, TA, M, S, T (Low) Plastic 0.07 <0.01 <0.0115 133.3 GM (Low) Steel <0.01 <0.01 <0.01
2 Using Your AnalyzerNiton XL3t GOLDD Plus Radiation Profile18 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificNotes:*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=Thin15 133.3 GM (Low) Aluminum <0.01 <0.01 <0.018200 GM, P, M (Light)<0.01 (no detectable scatter radiation) at any location for steel, aluminum, soil, or plastic sample typesTable 1-10 - Niton XL3t GOLDD Plus Radiation Profile - Scatter Measurements - mRem/hrTable 1-11 - Niton XL3t GOLDD Plus Radiation Profile - Scatter Measurements - µSv/hrkV uA Range Substrate Max @ 5cm Max @ 30 cmMax @ Trigger50 40EM, MC, P, TA, PP (Main) M, S, T (High)Steel 1.4 <0.1 <0.150 40EM, MC, P, TA, PP (Main) M, S, T (High)Aluminum 20 <0.1 <0.150 40EM, MC, P, TA, PP (Main) M, S, T (High)Soil 20 0.4 <0.150 40EM, MC, P, TA, PP (Main) M, S, T (High)Plastic 100 4.5 6050 40 GM, PM, M, S, IP (Main) Steel 3 <0.1 <0.150 40 GM, PM, M, S, IP (Main) Aluminum 40 0.1 0.1
2 Using Your AnalyzerNiton XL3t GOLDD Plus Radiation ProfileThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 19Note *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=Thin50 40 GM, PM, M, S, IP (Main) Soil 40 0.9 <0.120 100 EM, P, TA, M, S, T (Low) Soil <0.1 <0.1 <0.120 100 EM, P, TA, M, S, T (Low) Plastic 0.7 <0.1 <0.115 133.3 GM (Low) Steel <0.1 <0.1 <0.115 133.3 GM (Low) Aluminum <0.1 <0.1 <0.18 200 GM, P, M (Light)<0.1 (no detectable scatter radiation) at any location for steel, aluminum, soil, or plastic sample typesTable 1-11 - Niton XL3t GOLDD Plus Radiation Profile - Scatter Measurements - µSv/hr
2 Using Your AnalyzerNiton XL3p Radiation Profile20 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificNiton XL3p Radiation ProfileTable 1-12 - Niton XL3p Radiation Profile - In Beam MeasurementsDistance From Window Dose Rate (mSv/hr) Dose Rate (mrem/hr)5 cm 0.45 4530 cm 0.03 3.0100 cm 0.003 0.3Table 1-13 - Niton XL3p Radiation Profile - Scatter Measurements - mSv/hrLocation Plastic SubstrateWood SubstrateSoil SubstrateAluminum SubstrateSteel SubstrateMax Scatter @ 5cm from Snout (A’) 0.06 0.03 0.018 0.01 0.0042Max Scatter @ Trigger (B) 0.0038 0.002 0.0015 0.0048 0.0003Table 1-14 - Niton XL3p Radiation Profile - Scatter Measurements - mRem/hrLocation Plastic SubstrateWood SubstrateSoil SubstrateAluminum SubstrateSteel SubstrateMax Scatter @ 5cm from Snout (A’) 6.0 3.0 1.8 1.0 0.42Max Scatter @ Trigger (B) 0.38 0.2 0.15 0.48 0.03
2 Using Your AnalyzerNiton XL3p Radiation ProfileThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 21Figure 5. Primary and Secondary Dose Locations (Not to Scale)
2 Using Your AnalyzerPrimary Radiation22 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificPrimary RadiationNiton XL3t and XL3t GOLDDPrimary 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 XL3pPrimary 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 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 RadiationUnder 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 GOLDDSecondary 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.
2 Using Your AnalyzerDeep and Shallow DoseThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 23Niton XL3pSecondary 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 SamplesThe operator is reminded that one should never hold samples during analysis, doing so will result in higher than necessary exposure to secondary radiation and could expose the operator directly to the much higher primary-beam dose rates.Deep and Shallow DoseYou 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.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 OperationStorage and TransportationStorageRegulations in nearly all locations will require that you store your analyzer locked in a secured area to prevent access, use, and/or removal by unauthorized individuals. Storage requirements will vary by location, particularly with regard to storage at temporary job sites or away from your primary storage location such as hotels and motels and in vehicles. You should contact your local Radiation Control Authority to identify the specific storage requirements in your jurisdiction.
2 Using Your AnalyzerProper and Improper Operation24 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificTransportationNiton XL3t and XL3t GOLDDThere 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 XL3pFor Thermo Fisher Scientific, Niton Analyzers (Niton Analyzers), in the United States, the government agency that has primary authority and regulations which apply to transportation 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,
2 Using Your AnalyzerProper and Improper OperationThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 25• "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:Class1. Explosives2. Gases3. Flammable and Combustible Liquids4. Flammable solids, combustible materials, and dangerous when wet materials5. Oxidizers and organic peroxides6. Toxic materials and infectious substances 7. Radioactive Materials8. Corrosive Materials9. Miscellaneous dangerous goodsNiton 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.
2 Using Your AnalyzerProper and Improper Operation26 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificAlso, 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 requirementsFor 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.
2 Using Your AnalyzerProper and Improper OperationThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 27Always 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 Center1-800-467-4922Mon-Fri 9AM-5PM Eastern
2 Using Your AnalyzerProper and Improper Operation28 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificLeak 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 analysisUnless 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
2 Using Your AnalyzerProper and Improper OperationThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 29CAUTION REMOVE THE BATTERY WHILE PERFORMING A WIPE TEST TO BE SURE THAT THE SHUTTERS ARE NOT OPEN DURING THIS PROCEDURE!Lost or Stolen InstrumentTHIS PAGE CONTAINS EMERGENCY CONTACT INFORMATION THAT SHOULD 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 InstrumentMinor DamageIf 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 instrument2. Remove the battery. The x-ray tube can not produce radiation when the battery is disconnected. The instrument is now safe to handle.3. Place the instrument securely in the holster.4. Place the instrument in the carrying case that came with the instrument.5. Notify your Radiation Safety Officer (RSO) or the equivalent responsible individual at your company or institution immediately.6. You or your RSO should call Thermo Fisher Scientific at one of their contact numbers listed below for additional instructions and guidance.Major DamageIf the instrument is severely damaged:1. Perform the same steps as described above for minor damage. There will be no radiation hazard as long as the battery is removed from the instrument.2. Place all components in a plastic bag and contact Thermo Fisher Scientific.
2 Using Your AnalyzerEmergency Response Information30 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificEmergency Response InformationPlease Complete the Following Emergency Response Information and Keep with the Analyzer at All TimesNITON ANALYZER EMERGENCY CONTACT INFORMATIONThe 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 NumbersMain Number (USA): (800) 875-1578Additional Radiation Emergency #'s: (978) 790-8269 or (617) 901-3125Outside the USA - Local Niton Service Center:___________________EuropeNiton Analyzers EuropeMunich, GermanyPhone: +49 89 3681 380Fax: +49 89 3681 3830Email: niton.eur@thermofisher.comAsiaNiton Analyzers AsiaHong KongPhone: +852 2869-6669Fax: +852 2869-6665Email: niton.asia@thermofisher.comRegistration and Licensing
2 Using Your AnalyzerEmergency Response InformationThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 31As 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 there is a requirement for a safety device that would prevent entry of an extremity into the primary beam. If you need assistance with the exemption letter, you may contact the radiation safety group.Registration and Licensing FAQ
2 Using Your AnalyzerStartup Procedure32 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificStartup ProcedureUnpacking and Preparing Your Niton XRF AnalyzerWARNING 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.
2 Using Your AnalyzerBattery Installation and ChargingThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 33• 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 OverviewBattery Installation and ChargingInstalling or Replacing The Battery Pack1. Slide back the catch on the bottom of your analyzer’s pistol grip and drop the battery out into 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.
2 Using Your AnalyzerBattery Installation and Charging34 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificFigure 9. Rear and Side of Battery Pack Showing KeyCAUTION Do not force the battery into the cavity!3. Press in until the latch resets.Recharging The Battery PackFully 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.
2 Using Your AnalyzerBattery Installation and ChargingThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 35Figure 10. Power On4. The yellow light indicates that the battery pack is currently being charged.Figure 11. Charging5. The green light indicates that the battery pack has finished charging and is ready for use.
2 Using Your AnalyzerBattery Installation and Charging36 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificFigure 12. Charge CompletedNote If there is a fully seated battery pack in the charger and only the red light is on, there is a fault with the battery pack or charger.
2 Using Your AnalyzerBattery Installation and ChargingThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 37Figure 13. Battery Pack in the ChargerCAUTION Do not store battery packs or charger in direct sunlight.CAUTION Do not let the battery pack recharge for excessive periods of time.
2 Using Your AnalyzerThe Control Panel38 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificThe Control PanelThe 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 PanelTo 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.
2 Using Your AnalyzerThe Control PanelThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 39The LCD Touch ScreenThe 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.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.
2 Using Your AnalyzerStartup Procedure40 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificTo 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 ProcedureTo turn on the analyzer, depress the On/off/escape button on the control panel until the Touch 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 ScreenWhen 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.
2 Using Your AnalyzerStartup ProcedureThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 41Figure 17. Warning ScreenAfter selecting the Yes button, the Virtual Numeric Keypad becomes available for you to log onto the analyzer.Figure 18. Virtual Numeric Keypad
2 Using Your AnalyzerPerforming a System Check42 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificSelect 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).Note 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 CheckFigure 19. System Check Menu PathSelect the System Check Icon on the Main Menu to perform a system check. Thermo 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.
2 Using Your AnalyzerPerforming a System CheckThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 43Figure 20. System Check in ProgressWhile performing the system check, your screen will show a progress bar indicating the 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
2 Using Your AnalyzerPerforming a System Check44 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificIf 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.
2 Using Your AnalyzerPerforming a System CheckThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 45Calibrating the Touch ScreenFigure 22. Touch Screen Calibration Menu Path
2 Using Your AnalyzerPerforming a System Check46 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificSelect 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
2 Using Your AnalyzerPerforming a System CheckThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 47Calibrating the Touch Screen Without Using the Touch ScreenIf 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.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.
2 Using Your AnalyzerPerforming a System Check48 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo Scientific7. 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 procedure13. 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.
2 Using Your AnalyzerThe Data PortsThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 49The Data PortsFigure 25. The Data PortsUSB PortThe USB Port is a communications and control port, for uploading and downloading data, configuration files, and software to the analyzer.Remote Trigger PortThe Remote Trigger Port controls the analyzer’s trigger function, for use with accessories and test stands.Serial PortThe Serial Port is a communications and control port, for uploading and downloading data, configuration files, and software to the analyzer.Power PortThe Power Port is used to run the analyzer under external power.
2 Using Your AnalyzerUsing the Navigation (NAV) Menu50 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificUsing the Navigation (NAV) MenuThe 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 MenuUsing the Tools MenuThe Tools Menu enables you to perform common data-related tasks such as printing and averaging readings. Select a task from the menu to initiate that task. The options available can vary depending on the selected mode.
2 Using Your AnalyzerUsing the Tools MenuThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 51Figure 27. The Tools Menu Path (Main)The Tools Menu can be accessed in two ways, and the options are different depending on the 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.
2 Using Your AnalyzerUsing the Tools Menu52 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificFigure 28. The Tools Menu Path (Alt)The alternate Tools Menu can be accessed by selecting the Data Icon from the Main Menu, 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 OptionsMost 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.
2 Using Your AnalyzerUsing the Tools MenuThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 53Tools Menu Options (Mode Dependent)Averaging ResultsYou will find the two types of result averaging here: Avg ForwardSpectra: On/Spectra: OffYou will find how to use Live Spectra here: Spectrum:On/Spectrum:OffAlloy Pass-FailYou will find how to use Alloy Pass/Fail here: Set Pass/FaillEditing and Switching Alloy LibrariesYou will find how to use Alloy Libraries here: Switch Library (Main)Enable/Disable AlYou will find how to use the Enable/Diable Al option here: Enable/Disable AlCoatings MethodYou will find how to use Coatings Method here: Coatings MethodThickness CorrectionYou will find how to use Thickness Correction here: Thickness CorrectionEnable PaintYou will find how to use Enable Paint here: Enable/Disable PaintAction LevelYou will find how to use Action Level here: Action LevelPrint DataYou will find how to use Print Data here: Print DataElement RangesYou will find how to use Element Ranges here: Adjusting the Element Range
2 Using Your AnalyzerSetting the Date and Time54 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificToggle HeYou will find how to use Toggle He here: Enable/Disable AlToggle SpotYou will find how to use Small Spot here: Calibrating the SpotSetting the Date and TimeFigure 29. The Date and Time Menu Path
2 Using Your AnalyzerSetting the Date and TimeThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 55From 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 & TimeWhen 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.
2 Using Your AnalyzerSetting the Date and Time56 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificChanging the MonthTo 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.Figure 31. Month Drop Down MenuSelect 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.Changing the YearTo change the year, select the downward pointing triangle button next to the year displayed. A drop down menu will appear, listing the years in order of appearance.
2 Using Your AnalyzerSetting the Date and TimeThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 57Figure 32. Changing the YearSelect the year you want from the drop down menu, using the vertical slider button to display hidden years. The display will change to show the year you selected.Changing the DateTo change the date, select the date you want from the Date Selection Screen. The date you selected will be highlighted in red, while the old date will be shown in red numbers.
2 Using Your AnalyzerSetting the Date and Time58 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificFigure 33. Selecting the DateChanging the Hour and MinuteTo change the hour, select the hour numbers. The hour numbers will be highlighted in gray. Then select the Upwards Pointing Chevron Button to increment (increase) the hour, or the Downward Pointing Chevron Button to decrement (decrease) the hour.Figure 34. Changing the Hour
2 Using Your AnalyzerSetting the Date and TimeThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 59To 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.Figure 35. Changing the MinuteSaving Your ChangesTo save your changes, select the "Save" screen Button. The display will return to the previous screen and the Date and Time will be saved.Exiting Without SavingTo 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.
2 Using Your AnalyzerData Entry60 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificData EntryFigure 36. The Data Entry Menu PathThe Data Entry Menu can be accessed from the Ready to Test Screen, then selecting the Data 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.
2 Using Your AnalyzerData EntryThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 61Figure 37. The Data Entry Menu ButtonsThe Data Entry Menu ButtonsThe Data Entry Menu Buttons each enable you to enter data into the fields in different ways.Field NameThe Field Name is the designation of the type of data to be entered into the field. Selecting the Field Name enables you to enter data into that field.Virtual Keyboard ButtonSelecting the Virtual Keyboard Button will bring up the Virtual Keyboard, which you can use to type data into the field.Drop Down Menu ArrowSelecting the Drop Down Menu Arrow enables you to select data from a list you have previously entered into the analyzer.
2 Using Your AnalyzerThe Results Screen62 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificData FieldYour data will appear in the Data Field.Back ButtonSelecting the Back Button will return you to the Main Menu.Show ButtonSelecting the Show Button will bring the slide down window up into view for access to the Tools Button or Info Button.The Results ScreenYour 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 ScreenThe 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.
2 Using Your AnalyzerThe Results ScreenThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 63The 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.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.Match NumberThe Match Number is a rating of confidence in the identification of the alloy. The Match number 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.
2 Using Your AnalyzerThe Results Screen64 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo Scientific
3 How to AnalyzeThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 65How to AnalyzeTo 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.Figure 39. The Metals Analysis Menu Path (Example)
3 How to AnalyzeGeneral Analysis66 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificElement Ranges and ListsFrom 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 ScreenGeneral AnalysisNote Each user should read the Thermo Scientific Niton XL3 User’s Guide carefully before 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 TASKSAttach 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.
3 How to AnalyzeGeneral AnalysisThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 67From 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 details, 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 PathThermo 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).
3 How to AnalyzeGeneral Analysis68 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificNote 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 RangesVerify 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 sectionIf 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 PROTOCOLGood surface preparation is essential for obtaining accurate test results. All non- representative material (e.g., paint, coating, scale) must be removed prior to testing. An approximately 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.
3 How to AnalyzeGeneral AnalysisThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 69The 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 QCMeasure 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)For samples that do not fully cover the measurement aperture, increase the testing time by 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).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.
3 How to AnalyzeGeneral Analysis70 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo Scientific
4 Basic OperationTaking a Sample AnalysisThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 71Basic OperationTaking a Sample Analysis1. Clean the sample to be analyzed so it is free of all surface contamination.
4 Basic OperationTaking a Sample Analysis72 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo Scientific2. Place the analyzer so the sample is covered by the analysis window.
4 Basic OperationTaking a Sample AnalysisThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 733. Select the Sample Type Icon.4. Select the proper Mode (in this case Mining Cu/Zn) from the Mode Menu.
4 Basic OperationTaking a Sample Analysis74 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificNote See “Analysis Modes” on page 79. for more information on the Modes available.5. Select the Analyze Icon.
4 Basic OperationTaking a Sample AnalysisThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 755a. Select Data Entryif you wish todo any data entry.
4 Basic OperationTaking a Sample Analysis76 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo Scientific5b and 5c. Enter the data on the sample using the Virtual Keyboard.
4 Basic OperationTaking a Sample AnalysisThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 776. Initiate a Reading by pressing the trigger.7. When the sample has been sufficiently analyzed, release the trigger.
4 Basic OperationTaking a Sample Analysis78 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo Scientific8. View the composition returned.
4 Basic OperationAnalysis ModesThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 799. Remove the sample.Analysis ModesYour analyzer has several Analysis Modes. Which Analysis Mode you should use depends on the 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.
4 Basic OperationAnalysis Modes80 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificElectronic Metals ModeUse 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 ModeUse this mode to analyze samples composed primarily of precious metals. 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 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 ModeUse 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 ModeUse this mode to analyze samples composed primarily of soil and rock. This mode will return an elemental composition of the soil sample as analyzed. Soil Composition is outputby default in terms of parts per million.See “Using Soils Mode” on page 84.Mining Cu/Zn ModeUse 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.
4 Basic OperationAnalysis ModesThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 81Mining Ta/Hf ModeUse 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 toys and consumer products. This mode will attempt to return a general Material 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.TestAll Geo ModeUse 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 surface if appropriate.2. Place the analyzer so that the sample covers the analysis window.3. Select the Mode icon.
4 Basic OperationAnalysis Modes82 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo Scientifica. 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 Mode1. 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 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 Mode1. 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 Precious Metals from the Mode Menu.4. Select the Analyze icon.
4 Basic OperationAnalysis ModesThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 83a. 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.
4 Basic OperationAnalysis Modes84 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificUsing Plastics Mode1. 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.7. View the composition returned.8. Remove the sample.Using Soils Mode1. Pack the sample into a Sample Cup.a. 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.
4 Basic OperationAnalysis ModesThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 85Using Mining Cu/Zn Mode1. 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.7. View the composition returned.8. Remove the sample.
4 Basic OperationAnalysis Modes86 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificUsing Mining Ta/Hf Mode1. 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 Mode1. 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 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.7. View the composition returned.8. Remove the sample.Using TestAll Geo Mode1. Clean the sample to be analyzed so it is free of all surface contamination.
4 Basic OperationAnalysis ModesThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 872. 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.
4 Basic OperationAnalysis Modes88 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo Scientific
5 Common OperationsMetal Sample PrepThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 89Common OperationsMetal Sample PrepUp until recently, sample preparation was not a big worry for XRF metals analysis, as the LOD of the analyzer was seldom low enough for any but the most heavy contamination to be 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:• 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 PreparationYou need to clear the surface of your samples of any paint, plating, or any oxidation such as rust 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.
5 Common OperationsMetal Sample Prep90 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo Scientific• 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 OxidationWith the exception of a limited number of metal types, most metal alloys form an oxide covering on the surface when exposed to oxygen or air. This oxide covering is visible in carbon 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 grindingSample % Mn % Ni % Cr % Mo % CuReported Chemistry 0.650 0.090 0.070 0.030 0.040
5 Common OperationsMetal Sample PrepThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 91Painted SurfacesPaint is a mixture of several items that are combined into a liquid which is applied to the surface of materials such as metal. Once applied this liquid dries with time and adheres to the 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.The following is a list of some of the most common components of paint:White Paint • Antimony (Sb)• Lead (Pb)• Titanium (Ti)• Zinc (Zn)• Cobalt (Co) Red Paint• 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.Test Results with Ground Surface 0.67 0.089 0.070 0.033 0.039Test Results with Unground Sur-face0.61 0.178 0.081 0.033 0.514Table 1. Comparative test results with and without grinding
5 Common OperationsMetal Sample Prep92 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificOil, Grease & Cutting OilsOil and grease contain a number of elements combined into a viscous substance and applied to moving parts in order to reduce friction. Grease coatings can remain on component 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.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. Table 2. Prepped and unprepped painted metal analysisSample Mn Ni Cr Mo Ti Zn CoGround Surface 1.49 0.04 0.03 0.004 0.011 0.0001 0.03Unground Surface 1.34 0.01 0.04 0.011 2.507 1.751 0.21Table 3. Clean and greased sample metal analysisSample Mn Ni Cr Mo Cu Co ZnClean Surface 1.18 0.001 0.041 0.004 0.001 0.001 0.019Light Grease 1.07 0.001 0.001 0.067 0.033 0.322 0.416Heavy Grease 0.96 0.001 0.001 0.500 0.062 1.760 3.430
5 Common OperationsMetal Sample PrepThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 93Remember to follow safe techniques for handling and disposing of solvents and cleaning ragsAnodized, Plated and Galvanized SurfacesAnodizing is the process of polarizing the metal surface into a passive state which protects it against corrosion. This process is most often applied to aluminum alloys.Galvanized steel is one of the most common of the coated surfaces. In this process, steel is passed through a molten bath of a zinc alloy. Zinc reacts with the steel metal to form a bonding layer on the steel surface. The zinc layer does not separate from the steel and forms a protective layer that protects the steel from oxidation.Galvanized layers are relatively thick compared to other plating elements and methods. When grinding to remove the zinc coating, you will find increased zinc values even when you can see the steel surface. Grind a little further and zinc values will disappear. Zinc clings to the surface of the sanding disc, so you will need to frequently change discs.Electroplating is another common practice of applying a coating which not only protects the surface from oxidation, but also improves the base material's wear resistance, lubricity and improves the overall aesthetics of the product. The electroplated coating is generally thinner and more evenly applied than galvanizing. Electroplating has a wide range of elements and in some situations there may be two or more different coatings on the same part.The following is a partial list of elements that are used to plate the surface of base metals: Ni, Cr, Cadmium (Cd), Tin (Sn), Zn, AlCordless Right Angle DrillThis style of drill is recommended for most surface preparation in the field because it gives the operator the greatest amount of control, and thus safety, when grinding samples. When moving a sanding disc on a conventional drill over a sample, forces tend to produce movement the operator may find difficult to control. Control and stability are important in grinding from effectiveness and safety perspectives. A cordless right angle drill similar to the one pictured below is recommended for light to medium surface removal. For materials with heavy oxidation such as carbon and low alloy steel, an angle grinder, explained in the next section, is recommended. A kit with the drill, batteries and charging units, can be purchased from ThermoFisher, or companies such as DeWalt, Hitachi, Makita, Milwaukee or Ryobi.
5 Common OperationsMetal Sample Prep94 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificFigure 1. Example of Right Angle DrillA disc holder is needed with the drill to hold the sanding disc. (In the US, we recommend a 3.0 inch disc holder. It has a 0.25 inch shank to insert into the chuck of the drill.) If sanding discs are ordered from a local supplier, attention should be paid to the method of attaching the sanding disc to the disc holder. There are three types of connections: metal snap-on, plastic twist and plastic snap-on.
5 Common OperationsMetal Sample PrepThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 95Figure 2. Sanding DiscBefore attaching the grinder and sanding disc as pictured below, first remove the battery to disable the grinder. Then insert the shaft of the disc holder into the drill and securely tighten the chuck. Next, attach the appropriate sanding disc. The method of attachment will vary depending upon the type of fastener on the sanding disc (snap-on or twist connectors). Reinstall the battery and prepare for use.
5 Common OperationsMetal Sample Prep96 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificFigure 3. Attaching the Sanding Disc 1Figure 4. Attaching the Sanding Disc 2
5 Common OperationsMetal Sample PrepThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 97Cordless Angle GrinderA cordless angle grinder similar to the one pictured below will successfully remove medium to heavy oxidation or paint. This grinder (which uses a 4.5 inch sanding disc with a rubber backup pad) can be purchased from ThermoFisher or industrial tool manufactures like DeWalt, Makita or Milwaukee.Figure 5. Cordless Angle Grinder KitA grinder kit typically contains the grinder, a battery, and charging unit. If the kit contains a grinding stone wheel, remove and dispose of it. Grinding stones are not to be used for XRF sample preparation. A rubber backup pad and a retaining nut are needed to use with sanding discs. (See picture below).
5 Common OperationsMetal Sample Prep98 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificFigure 6. Rubber Backing Pad and NutIn the US, sanding discs are 4.5 inch diameter and can be purchased in various grit sizes of 36 to 120. The surface abrasive can be one of the following materials: aluminum oxide, silicon carbide or zirconia alumina. The selection of sanding discs is covered in the next section.
5 Common OperationsMetal Sample PrepThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 99Figure 7. Assembling the GrinderRemove the battery before assembling the grinder, backup pad and sanding disc. Start by installing the backup pad onto the drive shaft of the grinder, or, with some backup pads. You will need to screw it onto the threaded shaft. Next place the sanding disc over the drive shaft onto the backup pad. Hold the locking button on the reverse side of the grinder while tightening the retaining nut into the hole of the sanding disc.Once the backup pad, sanding disc and locking nut are secured, reinstall the battery. The grinder is now ready for use.Sanding DiscsIt has been well tested and determined that samples can be easily contaminated by the abrasive material contained in and on a sanding disc. An example would be the increase in aluminum content of carbon steel after grinding the sample with a new aluminum oxide sanding disc. Aluminum from the aluminum oxide disc imbeds itself in the surface of the steel sample and an XRF would show an unusually high aluminum concentration.
5 Common OperationsMetal Sample Prep100 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificAluminum oxide is the most common abrasive surface used today. For most applications it will be safe to use aluminum oxide discs. But if test results for aluminum in any metal alloy are significantly higher than expected, switch to another type of abrasive disc. Also, when grinding aluminum, aluminum oxide discs tend to trap aluminum from the metal surface into the disc surface. Once this happens, the disc looses its efficiency and cross contaminates the next sample. Silicon Carbide Silicon carbide discs are a good alternative for aluminum oxide and the cost of a disc is only slightly higher than aluminum oxide. This adhesive type is best for grinding aluminum, copper and other soft metals.Zirconia AluminaZirconia alumina discs are more expensive than aluminum oxide or silicon carbide but they last much longer and so may be the best investment. Few metal alloys have low additive levels of zirconium, so it is one of the safest abrasive types for general use.One exception is the Aluminum alloy Al 7050 which is a near twin to alloy Al 7075 except for the ~0.1% Zr in 7050. Therefore, if 7075 is ground with Zr grinding paper it may be erroneously identified as Al 7050 due to the Zr transferred from the grinding disk to the surface of the Al 7075. sDiamond Sanding PaperDo not use diamond sanding paper for surface preparation in the field. Even after extensive and aggressive sanding with diamond paper, a metal surface will not be prepared properly. Diamond sanding paper is only recommended for removal of very light oxide coatings on flat surfaces such as analytical reference standards. • Nickel, cobalt, and steel alloys should be ground using 36, 40, 50 or 60 grit discs. The selection of a grit size of 100 or la• inum, copper alloys, and other softer metals should be ground using 60 or 80 grit discs. • Grinding stones are not recommended because they will absorb surface material and transfer them onto the next surface ground. Safety RulesWhen using a grinder, follow these safety rules:• When changing sanding discs, always remove the grinder battery to prevent accidental activation of the grinder.• Allow the grinder to stop spinning before placing it on a flat surface.
5 Common OperationsMetal Sample PrepThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 101• Replace any damaged or torn sanding discs immediately.• Always wear impact eye protection to prevent eye damage from flying debris.• Place small samples or standards in a clamping device when grinding to prevent accidental contact between the spinning disc and your hand.• Use proper techniques and safety precautions when grinding beryllium, beryllium copper, lead, or titanium alloys.• Always follow the safety instructions outlined by the grinder's manufacture as mentioned in the instruction manual..
5 Common OperationsSoil Sample Prep102 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificSoil Sample PrepExamine the site for differences in surface characteristics before sampling. Valid results depend on a sufficient and appropriate selection of sites to sample. Incorrect sample collection may give rise to misleading or meaningless results, regardless of the analysis method. Delineate sections with different characteristics and treat them as different areas. It may be desirable to subdivide larger areas even if they have the same characteristics to ensure a thorough examination. Make certain to label each bag thoroughly. Common information included on each bag includes the person and/or the company who collected the sample, the location and area where the sample was taken, and the date the sample was collected.Prepared sample analysis is the most accurate method for determining the concentration of elements in a bulk medium using the instrument. Sample preparation will minimize the effects of moisture, large particle size, variations in particle size and sample non-homogeneity.Note More sample preparation (drying, milling and sifting) will yield greater accuracy. The drier, finer, and more homogeneous the particles, the better the measurements. Preparing Bulk Soil SamplesWe recommends establishing a specific sample protocol. Following this protocol for preparing and testing samples is vital for achieving a level of accuracy comparable with laboratory results. The equipment you need to prepare samples is included in your kit. Among these are a mortar and pestle, several different sized metal sieves, and cups to hold the samples.CAUTION All test equipment must be kept clean to prevent contaminationof samples. Cleaning Your Equipment:The mortar, pestle, and grinding mill may be cleaned with dry paper towels. You can also clean the mortar, pestle, and the mill’s container with water, but be sure each is absolutely dry before using them on another sample. The mortar and pestle may be cleaned by grinding clean, dry sand in the mortar. Use the short bristle brushes (included in your Soil Testing Kit) to clean the sieves. If you have an electric soil grinder in your kit, when the soil grinder blades wear out, unbolt the worn blades and replace them. Call the Thermo Sales Department at 1-800-875-1578 for replacement blades. Note Using the soil grinder may artificially increase the amount of Fe in soil samples.
5 Common OperationsSoil Sample PrepThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 103Sample Preparation Prior to analysis, the material should be dry and well homogenized. Ideally, the entire sample should be dried to constant weight, sifted to remove gravel and debris, and ground or milled to a fine powder. Dry the sample if it is moist and cohesive. The sample can be dried in any of several ways. Choose one of the following:• Oven dry the sample for approximately 2 hours at 150° C, until the sample reaches a constant weight. Note: Oven drying is inappropriate when volatile compounds may be present in the sample. For example, lead present as tetraethyl lead would be driven off by the heat of drying. Some forms of mercury and arsenic are volatile. Air drying will preserve more of these volatile substances. • Air dry the sample overnight at room temperature in a shallow pan.• Stir gently and warm the sample in a pan over a hot plate or burner.Coning and Quartering You may need to divide your sample at various times during preparation. Coning and quartering is a method for dividing the sample into homogenous quarters.• Pour the dry material slowly and carefully onto a flat sheet or pan, forming a symmetrical cone. Divide the cone into equal piles using a flat thin-bladed tool, such as a knife or ruler. Divide these in half again.• Now you have four samples, each one-quarter the size of the original and each more homogenous than the original.• Grind the sample to break up dirt clods and/or paint chips. WARNING Grinding and sifting dried samples produces dust. Even clean soil contains silica, which may be hazardous when airborne. Prepare all samples in a ventilated area; wear a mask, gloves, and an apron; and spread a drop cloth. Sift using the #10 (2mm) mesh and separate out the larger pieces (stones, organic matter, metallic objects, etc. Examine the larger particles by eye but do not include in the sample. Grind the sample again so its particles will be finer and more homogenous. Use mortar and pestle, or an electrically powered grinding mill. Sift at least 10 grams of the sample through #60 (250 ?m) and #120 (125 ?m) mesh. Re-grind the un-passed material until the entire fraction is able to pass. Mix the resulting sample. Placing the Sample in an XRF Sample CupNote The sample container should be a sample cup of a type that can be filled from the rear; that is, the side opposite the window (e.g. Thermo NITON Part Number 187-466). Thermo recommends using a 1/4 mil Polypropylene film (e.g. Thermo NITON Part Number 187-461). A supply of cups and films are included.
5 Common OperationsSoil Sample Prep104 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificThe container used to hold the sample will affect the accuracy of the measurement. Use a container with as thin-walled a window as is convenient and use the same kind of container and window for each sample. Consistency and careful attention to detail are keys to accurate measurement.PLACE FILM Place a circle of polypropylene film on top of an XRF sample cup. This film goes on the end of the cup with the indented ring. Thermo recommends preparing the cup ahead of time, if possible. SECURE FILM Secure the film with the collar. The flange inside the collar faces down and snaps into the indented ring of the cup. Inspect the installed film window for continuity and smooth, taut appearance. FILL CUP Set the cup on a flat surface film-window-side down. Fill it with at least five grams of the prepared sample, making sure that no voids or uneven layers. TAMP SAMPLE Lightly tamp the sample into the cup. The end of the pestle makes a convenient tamper.
5 Common OperationsSoil Sample PrepThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 105PLACE FILTER Place a filter-paper disk on the sample after tamping it.STUFF CUP Fill the rest of the cup with polyester fiber stuffing to prevent sample movement. Use aquarium filter or pillow filling as stuffing. A small supply of stuffing comes with your bulk sample kit.CAP CUP Place a cap on your cup.LABEL CUP Place a label on teh cup. Using a pen with indelible ink, write identifying information on the cup. Keep a record of the sample designation, the site and location, the date of the sample, and any other relevant comments. Cup is ready for testing.
5 Common OperationsPreparing Mining Samples106 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificPreparing Liquids and SludgeLiquids Fill an XRF sample cup with the liquid to be tested (do not pad the sample with cotton). The cup must be full so it is best if some liquid is allowed to overflow when the cap is put on.Sludge Sludge can be placed directly into an XRF cup for screening. This is considered in-situ testing because no attempt has been made to prepare the sample. For more accuracy, the sludge can be dried, sieved, and ground. Prepare in an XRF sample cup and test the same way you would with a soil sample. For risk analysis, it is advisable to use a 60-mesh sieve to isolate and test only fine particles.Preparing Mining SamplesExamine the site for differences in surface characteristics before sampling. Valid results depend on a sufficient and appropriate selection of sites to sample. Incorrect sample collection may give rise to misleading or meaningless results, regardless of the analysis method. Delineate sections with different characteristics and treat them as different areas. It may be desirable to subdivide larger areas even if they have the same characteristics to ensure a thorough examination. Make certain to label each bag thoroughly. Common information included on each bag includes the person and/or the company who collected the sample, the location and area where the sample was taken, and the date the sample was collected.Prepared sample analysis is the most accurate method for determining the concentration of elements in a bulk medium using the instrument. Sample preparation will minimize the effects of moisture, large particle size, variations in particle size and sample non-homogeneity. Note More sample preparation (drying, milling and sifting) will yield greater accuracy. The drier, finer, and more homogeneous the particles, the better the measurements. Specimen Preparation - Fused Glass DiskThe samples need to be predried for 2-6 hours in 105°C depending on the moisture content.1. Grind the dried samples to ~200mesh (74 ?m).2. Calcination (Ashing) the samplea. About 4-6 g of dry pulverized sample is calcinated in an alumina or platinum crucible in a muffle furnace at 1000°C for 1 hour.b. The sample is cooled in a dedicator and loss on ignition (LOD) is calculated from weight difference before and after Calcination.
5 Common OperationsSetting Up Beep TimesThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 1073. Weight 1.0g of calcinated sample into fusion crucible add 5.0 g of lithium tetraborate and 0.3 lithium fluoride, and 10-20 mg lithium bromide as a nonstick agent.4. Fuse in a fluxer for at least 4 min in the flame.5. The resulting disk is released from the mold, cooled, then presented to the spectrometer.Specimen Preparation - Pressed Powder Briquette Preparation1. Thoroughly remix the sample in its jar by rotating in a figure-eight motion with two hands2. Weight 7.0g of sample into weighting boat by taking several separate gram-size portions then fine grind sample using a swing mill.3. Add 2 small drops of propylene glycol on the top of the powder sample in the mill as a grinding aid, grind 4min at 1000rpm to obtain 10 ?m particle size.4. Add 0.5g binder to the sample and continue grinding for 30sec more.5. Brush the finely grounded samples into 31 mm aluminum sample cap and press at 50,000psi for 1 min. CAUTION All test equipment must be kept clean to prevent contamination of samples. Setting Up Beep TimesSelecting the Measurement Parameters icon allows you to set up Beep Times, enabling changes to the beep settings for various modes. This option allows you to change the beep settings for different modes independently. Select Mode you want to change, then the Measurement Parameters icon to set up your preferred beep times.First BeepThis option allows you to change the seconds of delay before the First Beep. Select the screen button labeled with the number of seconds of delay for the First Beep. The Beep One Time editor will open. Clear the current number of seconds with the "C" button, then select the E button to enter the information.Second BeepThis option allows you to change the seconds of delay before the Second Beep. Select the screen button labeled with the number of seconds of delay for the Second Beep. The Beep Two Time editor will open. Clear the current number of seconds with the "C" button, then select the E button to enter the information.
5 Common OperationsSorting the Custom Element Display108 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificThird BeepThis option allows you to change the seconds of delay before the Third Beep. Select the screen button labeled with the number of seconds of delay for the Third Beep. The Beep Three Time editor will open. Clear the current number of seconds with the "C" button, then select the E button to enter the information.Beep on Grade MatchSelecting this option will enable a special beep when the reading chemistry matches an alloy grade, and put a check mark in the box. Selecting the box again will remove the check mark and turn the beep offSorting the Custom Element DisplaySelect the Custom Element Display icon to configure sorting criteria used for analysis display. Select the mode you wish to change, then selecting the Custom Element Display icon opens up the Custom Element Display Screen.On the left of the display are elements, each with its currently selected display option beside it to the right. The element list is ranked by importance, with the most important element on top, and each one lower down of less importance than the one above it.By selecting an element and using the arrow buttons to the right of the list, you can change its ranking. Use the Up Button to move an element one rank closer to the top with each click. Use the Dn Arrow Button to move an element one rank closer to the bottom with each click.Display OptionsThe Display Options Drop Down Menu allows you to change the display status of any element to one of three states:• Normal - The standard state. Element displays only when the elemental value is greater than the limit of detection.• Always - Always display the results for this element. Use this state for elements critical to all of your analyses.• Never - Never display the results for this element. Use this state for elements which are unimportant to your work. This makes your instrument display less complex.Select the element you want to change, then select the menu option corresponding to your choice of display status. The currently selected element is displayed in white on black.Select the Save Button to save your current status as the new default. Select the Reset button to reset the settings to the previously saved state. Select the Close button to exit the screen without saving.
5 Common OperationsMax Measure TimeThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 109Report Settings Under Electronics Metals, Plastics, and Test All Modes, A field called Report Settings is available. Selecting the triangle next to the Report Settings Field will open a pop up menu allowing you to choose between the three Report Settings Modes. Select the mode you wish to edit.Changing the settings for one analysis mode will not affect the settings for other modes, and the configurations can be saved independently.RoHS OptionWhen the RoHS Option is selected, clicking on the Pass and Fail values works as it does in any other Mode.Detection OptionWhen the Detection Option is selected, Selecting the Pass/Fail field for that element acts as an On/Off Toggle, which will switch Pass/Fail mode between On and Off for the selected element. Selecting it again will reverse the toggle.Consumer Products OptionWhen the Consumer Products Option is selected, clicking on the Pass and Fail values works as it does in any other Mode. In addition, the total of Cl+Br is also calculated and used for Pass/Fail Testing.Max Measure TimeUnder the Method Setup -> Measurement Parameters option is a field called Max Measure Time. Here you can set up the maximum time your analyzer will continue to analyze the sample. Select the Max Measure Time field, and a Virtual Numeric Keypad will pop up, allowing you to input a new Maximum Measurement Time in seconds. The default Max Measure Time is set to 300 seconds.Minumum Test TimeUnder the Method Setup -> Consumer Goods option is a field called Minimum Test Time. Here you can set up the minimum time your analyzer will continue to analyze the sample when using the Detection Option only. Select the Minimum Test Time field, and a Virtual Numeric Keypad will pop up, allowing you to input a new Minimum Test Time in seconds. The default Minimum Test Time is set to 60 seconds.
5 Common OperationsVirtual Keyboard110 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificVirtual KeyboardWhenever you see the Keyboard Icon, you can select it to bring up a Virtual Keyboard on your touch screen. Generally, selecting the keys on the Virtual Keyboard will type the corresponding character into the field. The exceptions are the meta-keys Del, Clear, Left, Right, Shift, Backspace, Cancel, and Enter. Figure 8. Virtual Keyboard
5 Common OperationsVirtual KeyboardThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 111Figure 9. Shifted Virtual KeyboardDelDel is the Delete Key. Selecting this key will delete the character to the left of the cursor.ClearClear is the Clear Key. Selecting this key will clear all characters from the field.LeftLeft is the Left Cursor Key. Selecting this key will move the cursor one space to the left.RightRight is the Right Cursor Key. Selecting this key will move the cursor one space to the right.ShiftShift is the Shift Key. Selecting this key will bring up the alternate, shifted keyboard. See Figure 1-1B. Selecting the Shift Key on the shifted keyboard will bring up the normal keyboard. See Figure 1-1A.
5 Common OperationsVirtual Keyboard112 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificBackspaceBackspace is the Backspace Key. Selecting this key will delete the character to the right of the cursor.CancelCancel is the Cancel Key. Selecting this key will return you to the normal screen without inputting your changes into the field. EnterEnter is the Enter Key. Selecting this key will return you to the normal screen, replacing the former contents of the field with the changes you have made.
5 Common OperationsSetting Display UnitsThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 113Setting Display Units Select the Display Units radio buttons on the Set Display Units page to choose between ppm (parts per million) and percentage (hundredths of whole) displays when taking readings, and to change the Sigma value you want for the reading. In the Display Units area, you can select between Percent composition and Parts per Million as the units displayed in a measurement, and you can change this setting independently for any mode. You can also change the Sigma for each of these modes independently. When you have changed the display units to the appropriate values, select the Close button to save these settings for use.Changing Precision (Sigma Value)Sigma is the symbol used for Standard Deviation, a measure of how much a set of numbers deviates from the mean. For example, each of the three data sets {0, 0, 14, and 14}, {0, 6, 8, and 14} and {6, 6, 8, 8} has a mean of 7. Their standard deviations are 7, 5, and 1, respectively. The third set has a much smaller standard deviation than the other two because its values are all close to 7. In a loose sense, the standard deviation tells us how far from the mean the data points tend to be. The number of standard deviations between the process mean and the nearest specification limit is given in sigmas. As process standard deviation goes up, or the mean of the process moves away from the center of the tolerance, the sigma number goes down, because fewer standard deviations will then fit between the mean and the nearest specification limit.Confidence IntervalsConfidence intervals assume that the data are from an approximately normally distributed population - generally, sums of many independent, identically distributed random variables tend towards the normal distribution as a limit. Using this assumption, about 68 % of the values must be within 1 standard deviation of the mean, about 95 % of the values must be within two standard deviations, about 99.7 % must lie within 3 standard deviations, and about 99.99% of the values must lie within 4 standard deviations.The greater the sigma value of the test, the more confident you can be that the sample is as it appears, but the more difficult and time consuming the testing must be to verify this. That's why it's important to use the most appropriate sigma value for the test. By adjusting the sigma value for each type of test, you can optimize the process for your needs.
5 Common OperationsSetting Display Units114 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificAdjusting the Sigma ValuesThe sigma values are listed in the column headed with the Greek letter "sigma". The default value is 2 sigma. You can change this value by selecting the down arrow next to the value, which opens up a drop-down menu from which you can select the desired sigma value by clicking on it.Figure 10. Selecting the Sigma ValueWhen you have changed the sigma values to the appropriate number, select the Close button to save these settings for use.
5 Common OperationsAdjusting the Element RangeThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 115Adjusting the Element RangeFigure 11. Adjusting the Element RangeMulti-Range tests are used to either preferentially excite specific elements for increased sensitivity, or to cover a wider element range than one Range alone can provide. Most modes, when enabled, will use several Ranges in sequence to produce a combined analysis result. In typical Metals analysis applications, Main Range is used for the analysis of most elements, Low Range is utilized for the subsequent high sensitivity analysis of V, Ti, and Cr, High Range is is used to optimize the sensitivity for the elements from Palladium (Pd) through Barium (Ba), and Light Range is typically used in light element analysis. Multi-Range switching can be set to activate off time alone, or, when time switching is disabled, off settings in the General Metals grade library. In most modes, Low and Light Range add the capability to analyze light elements which cannot be efficiently excited by Mid Range.Select the mode you wish to configure from the Mode Menu. You can set different configurations for different modes.The Element Range Screen enables you to directly enable or disable any Range, or control the time that a Range alters the irradiation of the sample before auto-switching to another Range.Select the checkbox next to the Range you want to use to determine exactly which of the Ranges contained in your Analyzer is used for sample testing. Selecting an empty checkbox will enable that range and place a check into the box as an indicator. Selecting a checked box will disable the Range and clear the box.
5 Common OperationsSetting the Date and Time116 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificIn typical metals analysis applications, Main Range is used for the analysis of most elements. You cannot deselect the Main Range in metals analysis.Low Range is utilized for the subsequent high sensitivity analysis of V, Ti, and Cr.Select the Element List Button - labeled with a question mark - to display the Element List for that Range. This list shows the elements that the Range is best designed to detect.Select the Range Time field for the intended range to change the switch time for that range. The Range Time Editor will appear. This enables you to set the number of seconds each enabled range is allotted before auto-switching will occur when needed during sample testing. Your analyzer will auto-switch from one range to another when the testing time for that range is greater than or equal to the time you have chosen, and the identified alloy is flagged as needing the switch in the Niton Alloy Library.Select the C button to clear the current time, then from the virtual numeric key pad, select each digit you want to input, then select the E button to enter.Setting the Date and TimeFigure 12. Setting the Date and TimeFrom the System Menu, select the Date & Time icon from the System Screen 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.
5 Common OperationsSetting the Date and TimeThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 117Figure 13. The Date & Time ScreenWhen the Date & Time button 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.
5 Common OperationsSetting the Date and Time118 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificChanging the MonthTo 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.Figure 14. Month Drop Down MenuSelect 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.
5 Common OperationsSetting the Date and TimeThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 119Changing the YearTo change the year, select the downward pointing triangle button next to the year displayed. A drop down menu will appear, listing the years in order of appearance.Figure 15. Changing the YearSelect the year you want from the drop down menu, using the vertical slider button to display hidden years. The display will change to show the year you selected.
5 Common OperationsSetting the Date and Time120 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificChanging the DateTo change the date, select the date you want from the Date Selection Screen. The date you selected will be highlighted in red, while the old date will be shown in red numbers.Figure 16. Selecting the Date
5 Common OperationsSetting the Date and TimeThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 121Changing the Hour and MinuteTo change the hour, select the hour numbers. The hour numbers will be highlighted in gray. Then select the Upwards Pointing Chevron Button to increment (increase) the hour, or the Downward Pointing Chevron Button to decrement (decrease) the hour.Figure 17. Changing the Hour
5 Common OperationsSetting the Date and Time122 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificTo 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.Figure 18. Changing the MinuteSaving Your ChangesTo save your changes, select the "Save" screen Button. The display will return to the previous screen and the Date and Time will be saved.Exiting Without SavingTo 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.
5 Common OperationsCalibrating the Touch ScreenThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 123Calibrating the Touch ScreenFigure 19. Initiating Touch Screen CalibrationSelect the Calibrate Touch Screen button from the System Screen 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.
5 Common OperationsCalibrating the Touch Screen124 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo Scientific9. Once you have confirmed the parameters, the System Menu will be displayed. The screen is now calibrated.Figure 20. Touch Screen Calibration CrossesThe Touch Screen can be calibrated - and the system operated - with a USB mouse plugged into the USB ports in the rear of teh analyzer.
6 Data ManagementViewing DataThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 125Data Management Viewing DataFigure 21. The View Data Menu PathUse the Data Screen 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 Touch Screen.Figure 22. The View Data Screen
6 Data ManagementViewing Data126 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificUsing the buttons on the control panel, you may view different readings or additional data for individual readings. Your analyzer will display the standard screen analysis. Pressing the Down Button on the 4-way touch pad will display a complete scrolling elemental chemistry listing. Each press of the Down Button scrolls the screen down to the next element. You can also use the scroll bar along the right side to scroll or page through the elements.Scrolling Down Through the Complete Listing of ElementsFigure 23. Complete Listing of ElementsPressing the Left Button on the 4-way touch pad of your analyzer will display the previous reading, or if the first reading is currently displayed, the last reading. Pressing the Right Button on the 4-way touch pad will display the next reading, or if the last reading is currently displayed, the first reading in memory. Your analyzer can store up to 10,000 readings. You can also look at the complete x-ray spectra for each reading stored in the analyzer's memory.Sorting Elements You can sort element rows by various criteria in order to view your data in the manner you prefer. The Sort Buttons, which double as column headings, can be used to re-sort the data in different ways. The Data Screen always begins as a Standard Sort, as you have defined it. Selecting the appropriate Sort Button once toggles the sort order to High-to-Low. Selecting the Sort Button again toggles the sort order to Low-to-High. To return to the Standard Sort, select the Sort Button a third time.
6 Data ManagementViewing DataThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 127Figure 24. Standard, High-to-Low, and Low-to-High Composition SortsElement SortsElement sorts are performed alphabetically based on the element symbol.Composition SortsComposition sorts are performed numerically based on the percentage of composition, i.e. from lowest to highest concentration, or by toggling again, from highest to lowest.Error SortsError sorts are performed based on the size of the error in the reading, i.e. from largest to smallest error, or by toggling again, from smallest to largest.
6 Data ManagementViewing Data128 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificFigure 25. Element, Composition, and Error SortsSpectrum GraphFor any reading result, simply use the NAV Menu to gain access to the reading’s spectrum graph. Selecting Spectra will show a graphed spectrum of this reading, called SpectraView. SpectraView can be a useful tool for rapid, qualitative analysis of a sample. See Viewing the Spectrum for details.Figure 26. The SpectraView Screen
6 Data ManagementViewing DataThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 129Viewing the SpectrumSpectraViewSpectraView enables you to to visually inspect the fluorescent x-ray peaks obtained from any sample and qualitatively identify them using the on-board software. In SpectraView Mode, the spectrum is displayed using a linear energy scale along the x-axis, with the count rate autoscaled logarithmically on the y-axis so that the highest peak on the screen reaches the top of the scale.How to Use SpectraView You can access the SpectraView screen after taking a measurement in any mode, or while viewing a previous measurement, by selecting Spectra from the NAV Menu. Once you are in SpectraView, you can use the up and down positions of the 4-way touch pad to scroll through the spectrum, or you can tap on the spectrum display with the stylus to place the cursor at the point you tapped. The vertical cursor line indicates the current position along the spectrum.Viewing the Information in SpectraView ModeFigure 27. The SpectraView ScreenBy default, the following information is shown along with the spectrum:• The Reading number (Bottom Left) in the form "Read:x", where x is the Reading number.• The position of the cursor on the energy scale (Bottom Left, under the Reading number), in the form "E: x.xx KeV", where KeV is kilo electron volts.• The count rate (Bottom Left, under the energy position), in the form “R:x.xx”.
6 Data ManagementViewing Data130 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo Scientific• Ka, Kb, La, Lb, and/or Lg peaks of the three elements closest to where your cursor is positioned on the energy scale (Bottom Right). This information is written with the element symbol first, followed by either Ka (K shell alpha peak), Kb (K shell beta peak), La (L shell alpha peak), La (L shell beta peak), or Lg (L shell gamma peak). An example would be "Al Ka 1.48." To determine if a given element is present, look at the count rate at that cursor position.Note SpectraView cannot be used to determine exact element percentages in a sample.Fitting the Spectrum By using the touch screen, you can select parts of the displayed spectrum and zoom in. Touch and hold the stylus to the screen immediately before the area of the spectrum you wish to enhance, then - still holding the stylus to the screen - sweep it across the area of the spectrum you wish to see closer, lifting the stylus from the screen when you pass the end of the area of interest. The screen will display vertical lines to either side of the area of interest, delineating the boundaries of the area.Figure 28. Delineating the Area of InterestSelect the FIT button in the upper right hand corner of the Spectrum to fit the area of interest to the display area.
6 Data ManagementViewing DataThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 131Figure 29. Area of Interest Fit to the DisplayThe view of the spectrum will change to show only the area of interest.Multiple Ranges SpectraView can display any individual spectra, including those obtained from multiple Ranges (filters) if you are using more than one Range. Use the NAV Menu to select which spectrum to view.The Spectra1 choice will display the spectrum produced by the first Range.The Spectra2 choice will display the spectrum produced by the second Range.SpectraView Navigation Use the left button on the 4-way touch pad to expand the spectrum, centered on the position of the cursor. Use the right button on the 4-way touch pad to contract the spectrum, centered on the position of the cursor.
6 Data ManagementViewing Fingerprints132 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificViewing FingerprintsFigure 30. The View Fingerprints Menu PathSelect the View Fingerprints icon to view data saved as reference sample Fingerprints in Teach Fingerprint Mode. When the View Fingerprints icon is selected, the Results Screen of your most recent Teach Fingerprint is shown on the Touch Screen display.Figure 31. The View Fingerprints Screen
6 Data ManagementErasing DataThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 133Erasing DataThe Erase All Data ScreenFigure 32. The Erase All Data Menu PathSelect the Erase All Data icon to erase all data, including signatures and readings, from your analyzer. Selecting the Erase All Data icon will bring up a confirmation screen asking you “Are you sure?” with options to select “YES” or “NO”. Selecting the Yes Button will erase all data from your analyzer. Selecting the No Button will return you to the Erase Menu.
6 Data ManagementErasing Data134 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificFigure 33. The Erase All Data Confirmation ScreenCAUTION Never turn off the analyzer while data is being erased! WARNING Do not attempt to take measurements while downloading readings! This will generate an error requiring a system reset, and may corrupt your stored readings, requiring all stored readings to be erased.
6 Data ManagementErasing DataThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 135The Erase Readings ScreenFigure 34. The Erase Readings Menu PathSelect the Erase Readings icon to erase all accumulated test readings from your analyzer. Selecting the Erase Readings icon will bring up a confirmation screen asking you “Are you sure?” with options to select “YES” or “NO”. Selecting the Yes Button will erase all test reading data from your analyzer. Selecting the No Button will return you to the Erase Menu.
6 Data ManagementErasing Data136 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificFigure 35. The Erase Readings Confirmation ScreenNote - We recommend that you download all your readings into an NDT file for recording purposes before erasing all data.
6 Data ManagementErasing DataThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 137The Erase Fingerprints ScreenFigure 36. The Erase Fingerprints Menu PathSelect the Erase Fingerprints icon to erase all accumulated alloy fingerprints from your analyzer. Selecting the Erase Fingerprints icon will bring up a confirmation screen asking you “Are you sure?” with options to select “YES” or “NO”. Selecting the Yes Button will erase all fingerprint data from your analyzer. Selecting the No Button will return you to the Erase Menu.
6 Data ManagementManaging Libraries138 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificFigure 37. The Erase Fingerprints Confirmation ScreenManaging LibrariesFigure 38. The Manage Libraries Menu PathSelect the Manage Libraries icon to access the Library Management Menu. The Library Management Menu allows you to view and modify data in the Primary Library as well as the currently loaded alternate libraries. Just select the library you wish to view or editfrom the list on screen.
6 Data ManagementManaging LibrariesThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 139Figure 39. Viewing the LibrariesThe 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.Figure 40. The Library Editor
6 Data ManagementManaging Libraries140 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificUsing the Library Editor The Library Editor enables you to edit any library to conform to your specifications.Alloy Name Button Selecting the Alloy Name Button sorts the alloy list alphanumerically.(Name in List) Selecting the actual name of the alloy - i.e. “Fe/CS” - will bring up the Element Specification Screen.Add ButtonSelecting the Add Button will add a new alloy to the Library. First the Alloy Name Editor will appear, enabling you to enter the name of the new alloy.Figure 41. The Alloy Name EditorThe Alloy Name Editor is a standard Virtual Keyboard. Use it as you would any Virtual Keyboard. Hitting the return key enters the name into the alloy list. Select the name of the new alloy to bring up the Element Specification Screen and enter the specification of the alloy.Del ButtonSelecting the Del Button will delete the currently selected alloy. First a confirmation screen appears.
6 Data ManagementManaging LibrariesThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 141Figure 42. Confirmation ScreenSelecting the Yes Button will delete the alloy from the list. Selecting the No Button will return you to the Alloy List.Save ButtonSelecting the Save button will save the current Library.Close Button Selecting the Close button will close the current Library without saving it.The Element Specification ScreenThe Element Specification Screen allows you to edit the elemental content of any alloy.
6 Data ManagementManaging Libraries142 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificFigure 43. The Element Specification ScreenLibrary Name This is the name of the library you are editing. Make sure you are editing the correct library before proceeding further.Alloy Name This is the name of the alloy you are editing. Make sure you are editing the correct alloy before proceeding further.Element to be Edited This is the element you need to edit for this alloy.Minimum Percentage This is the lowest amount of the element in question you want to be in the alloy. If the element in the analyzed sample is any lower, the sample will not be recognized as this alloy. Selecting the element minimum will open the Minimum Editor.
6 Data ManagementManaging LibrariesThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 143Figure 44. The Minimum EditorThis is a standard Virtual Numerical Keypad. The C Button will clear the current display, The < Button will backspace one space, and the E Button will enter this number as the minimum. After selecting the E Button, you will be returned to the Element Specification Screen.Maximum Percentage This is the highest amount of the element in question you want to be in the alloy. If the element in the analyzed sample is any higher, the sample will not be recognized as this alloy. Selecting the element maximum will open the Maximum Editor.Figure 45. The Maximum Editor
6 Data ManagementManaging Libraries144 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificThis is a standard Virtual Numerical Keypad. The C Button will clear the current display, The < Button will backspace one space, and the E Button will enter this number as the minimum. After selecting the E Button, you will be returned to the Element Specification Screen.OK Button Selecting the OK button will save the edited library.Cancel Button Selecting the Cancel button will exit the Element Specification Screen for this alloy, returning you to the Library Editor.
7 ConnectivityThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 145ConnectivityThis section discusses how to connect your computer and your analyzer, for data transfer and integration, translation to other formats, data storage and security, as well as controlling your analyzer remotely through your computer. Connection can be achieved via USB, serial, and/or Bluetooth wireless means. Your analyzer comes with software which facilitates these uses, and works together with your analyzer to increase your productivity and efficiency.Installing the Windows 7 USB Driver1. Insert the NDT CD and close out any dialogue box that pops up. The driver is located on this disk.
7 Connectivity146 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo Scientific2. Click on “Control Panel” and locate the “Device Manager”. If it is not available directly under “Control Panel”, look under “System and Security” then “System”.
7 ConnectivityThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 1473. Open “Device Manager” 4. Plug in instrument using the USB cable provided 5. Message will appear “Device Driver Software Not Successfully Installed” 6. In “Device Manager”, “Unknown Device” will appear under “Other Devices” 7. Right click on “Unknown Devices”; select “Update Driver Software”
7 Connectivity148 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo Scientific8. Click on “Browse My Computer for Driver Software”
7 ConnectivityThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 1499. Click “Browse” button; select CD drive or the location of the driver if you are not installing from the NDT CD (recommended). 10. Click “OK” 11. Click “Next”
7 Connectivity150 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo Scientific12. A Security Dialog Box will appear. Select “Install This Driver Software Anyway?”13. Driver will install; close out.
7 ConnectivityUsing Your Analyzer With Your PCThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 151Using Your Analyzer With Your PCUsing the Wireless (Bluetooth) USB Adapter to Connect the XRF AnalyzerFigure 46. The Bluetooth Setup Menu PathThe USB adapter provided by Niton uses Bluetooth wireless technology. See Setting up Bluetooth to set up Bluetooth. Select the Bluetooth icon from the System Screen to set up your analyzer for Bluetooth wireless connection.
7 ConnectivityUsing Your Analyzer With Your PC152 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo Scientifici IconFigure 47. BT Information ScreenSelecting the i Icon in the top right of the Bluetooth Setup Screen will open the Bluetooth Information Screen. The Bluetooth Information Screen will supply the current name as well as the MAC address of your analyzerSearch ButtonSelecting the Search Button will initiate a search for currently available Bluetooth devices in the area.
7 ConnectivityConnecting From Your Analyzer to Your PCThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 153Figure 48. Bluetooth SearchingAfter the search, your analyzer will report which Bluetooth devices it has found in the main window of the screen.You can connect your PC and analyzer two different ways, from the analyzer to the PC, and from the PC to the analyzer.Connecting From Your Analyzer to Your PCAfter searching, select the PC you would like to connect to from the main window of the screen.Select the Connect Button. Your analyzer's screen will show connection progress.
7 ConnectivityConnecting From Your Analyzer to Your PC154 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificFigure 49. Connecting Via BluetoothOpen the program you are attempting to connect to. Here we are connected to NDTr, running the analyzer remotely over COM 5Figure 50. Connecting Via Bluetooth
7 ConnectivityConnecting From Your Analyzer to Your PCThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 155Connect ButtonSelect a located Bluetooth device from the Search List, then select the Connect Button to connect to that device.GPS ButtonSelect the GPS Button to download GPS data from a connected GPS Device.Figure 51. Bluetooth GPS Data ScreenReset ButtonSelecting the Reset Button initiates a Bluetooth reset.
7 ConnectivityConnecting From Your Analyzer to Your PC156 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificConfig ButtonFigure 52. Bluetooth Config ScreenSelecting the Config Button will load the Config Screen. This screen enables you to se the name of the currently selected Bluetooth device, change the type of device, see that device's COD Number, and see that device's MAC Address.Changing the Bluetooth Device TypeSelect the Down Arrow button next to the Type field to change the type of device connected. Select the proper type from the drop down menu. Select the Save button to save this configuration. Select the Close Button to exit without saving.
7 ConnectivityUsing a USB Cable to Connect Your AnalyzerThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 157Figure 53. Changing Bluetooth Device TypeDisable/Enable ButtonSelecting the Disable Button will disable Bluetooth neetworking and change the button to Enable. Selecting the Enable Button will restart Bluetooth networking and change the button back to Disable.Close ButtonSelect the close button to exit from Bluetooth setup.Using a USB Cable to Connect Your AnalyzerTo connect the XL3 XRF Analyzer to your PC using the USB cable:1. Insert the Standard USB connector on the USB cable into a USB port on your computer.
7 ConnectivityUsing a USB Cable to Connect Your Analyzer158 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificFigure 54. Standard USB Connector2. Open the Port Cover on the XRF Analyzer.3. Turn on the analyzer and insert the mini USB connector on the USB cable into the USB port in the handle of the XRF Analyzer.4. Upon initial installation, insert the NDT disk located behind the foam in your case. Follow the prompts and install the USB driver located on the disk.Figure 55. Mini USB Connector
7 ConnectivityDownloading DataThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 159Downloading DataStandard DownloadTo download data you have collected offline:1. Make sure that the XRF Analyzer is connected to your computer. See “Using Your Analyzer With Your PC” on page 151for more information.2. Turn on the XRF Analyzer. See the manual for the XRF Analyzer for more information.Note Wait at least 30 seconds after turning on the XRF Analyzer to begin downloading files. The System Start screens do not allow downloading.3. Start Niton Data Transfer.4. Click the Download button. The Download dialog box will open.Figure 56. The Download Button5. In the Download dialog box, Select the Test button to test the serial connection to the Analyzer.
7 ConnectivityDownloading Data160 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificFigure 57. The Test Button6. You should get a pop-up window informing you that the connection tested successfully. If the test fails, there is a problem with your serial port setup.Figure 58. Connection Success Window7. In the Download dialog box, click the Connect button.
7 ConnectivityDownloading DataThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 161Figure 59. The Connect Button8. Click the Query Readings button. This will return a list of all current readings on your analyzer. The list appears in the large white box in the Download dialog box.Figure 60. Current Reading List9. Select the readings that you want to download. There are two ways to do this.
7 ConnectivityDownloading Data162 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo Scientifica. Click the boxes next to each of the reading numbers to select or de-select individual readings. You can select a range of readings by pressing the shift key, then selecting the first and last reading in the range. All readings from the first reading selected to the last will then be selected.Figure 61. Selecting Readingsb. Click the boxes on the left to select or de-select all the readings of a specific type. You can also use the Shift-Click method of selecting a range of readings as described above.Figure 62. Using Check Boxes10. The download generates a data file containing the selected readings. To save the file for later use:c. Enter the path for the file in the Destination Folder field. You can use the ... button to browse.Figure 63. The Browse Buttond. Enter a name for the file in the File Name field.
7 ConnectivityDownloading DataThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 163CAUTION Some characters are not allowed in the file name. Characters such as the "#" sign will cause an error. Niton recommends using only alphanumeric characters "-", "_" and the space character when naming a file.e. Click the Download button.Figure 64. The Download ButtonWhen the progress bar shows that all the readings are downloaded, click the Done button.
7 ConnectivityDownloading Data164 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificFigure 65. The Progress BarYou should now see the readings you selected for download displayed, one reading per horizontal line. The data has been saved to the folder and filename you indicated prior to downloading. If an error message has appeared, see the following section.You can also automatically save reports in .csv format for importing into Excel or other programs.Simultaneous Save as CSV FileTable 4: Error Messages while DownloadingError Message ActionCouldn't open \\.\COM7 Error Code: 2Select another COM port.The port \\.\COM2 is in use Select another COM port.Please Open the Port Click the Connect button.
7 ConnectivityDownloading DataThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 165Note When using the wireless USB adapter, if the serial port repeatedly disconnects, check that the battery is fully charged.Live Download (Automatic Save)If desired, your Niton XL3 analyzer has the capability to download and store each reading to the PC in real time to a file of your choice. To enable this feature, you must do the following:Hardware Not RespondingorHardware Not ReadyTurn on the XRF Analyzer.If you are using a serial cable, check that the cable is inserted snugly.If you are using a serial cable, select the other COM port.If you are using the wireless USB adapter, connect the serial port. See the "Installing and Using Bluetooth" manual for complete instructions on setting up the Bluetooth adapter to work with your analyzer.Check that the spare battery is fully charged.The Serial Port connection failed: RFCOMM connection failedCheck that the battery is fully charged.WARNING: 38400 baud rate not supported.This indicates a potential problem. Test the serial port. If there is a problem connecting, switch baud rate on both the analyzer and the NDT software to 115200.Incorrect Data in reading # XXX.Reading will be skipped.Error code: BOUNDARY_ERROR1.This indicates a version mismatch between your instrument code and the NDT code running on your computer. Use a version of NDT that matches the ver?sion number of the software on your analyzer.Incorrect Data in reading # XXX.Reading will be skipped.Error code: BOUNDARY_ERROR2.This indicates a version mismatch between your instrument code and the NDT code running on your computer. Use a version of NDT that matches the ver?sion number of the software on your analyzer.Incorrect Data in reading # XXX.Reading will be skipped.Error code: BOUNDARY_ERROR3.This indicates a version mismatch between your instrument code and the NDT code running on your computer. Use a version of NDT that matches the ver?sion number of the software on your analyzer.WARNING: 115200 baud rate not supported.This indicates a potential problem. Test the serial port. If there is a problem connecting, switch baud rate on both the analyzer and the NDT software to 38400.SH4 Successfully Communicating Result: SUCCESSThis indicates a normal connection.Table 4: Error Messages while Downloading
7 ConnectivityDownloading Data166 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo Scientific• Your Niton analyzer must be turned on and connected to the PC. See Using Your Analyzer With Your PC.• The NDTr program module must be running and connected to your analyzer. See Operating Your Analyzer Remotely.• The Download icon in the NDTr toolbar must be selected.Figure 66. Live Download IconThe file created is in a format readable by the NDT program module, has an extension of .ndt, and looks identical to a file of manually downloaded readings - see Standard Download. It can also create a simultaneous .CSV file. Simultaneous Save as CSV File .Please note the following:1. When the instrument is unplugged, selecting the Download icon does nothing.2. When you disconnect, then reconnect, your analyzer, Download appends future readings to same file.3. Live Download does not overwrite any previous readings in the file. If you want to do this, you must first explicitly erase the file before initiating Live Download.4. Live Download does not retroactively add any readings taken while your analyzer was disconnected.Changing the Filename for Live DownloadOnce you have selected the Download icon, a dialog box appears as shown below:
7 ConnectivityDownloading DataThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 167Figure 67. File Dialog BoxYou can change the destination file or folder by clicking in the appropriate text box and typing in the new file name, or by clicking on the browse button (...) to the right of the text box and selecting a different pre-existing filename. To implement these changes, click the OK button.Your instrument serial number is associated with the file. If a different instrument is connected and Live Download is started, a message will appear saying that the connected instrument and file instrument do not match, and Live Download will not start. Saving the session as a new file will alleviate this issueSimultaneous Save as CSV FileBy clicking on the checkbox box labeled "Save the readings to CSV file as well" you can enable simultaneously saving the data as a standard CSV (Comma Separated Value) file for use with other programs.
7 ConnectivityDownloading Data168 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo Scientific
7 Controlling Your Analyzer From Your PCThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 169Controlling Your Analyzer From Your PCThe NDTr program allows you to completely control your Niton analyzer remotely, from your computer. It works over serial or USB connection over the supplied connector, or Bluetooth wireless communication. See Using Your Analyzer With Your PC for details on how to connect your Analyzer and PC.The NDTr Toolbar The NDTr Toolbar is a string of icons along the top of the NDTr window. It looks like this:Figure 68. The NDTr ToolbarStart Measurement Clicking this icon will initiate a measurement in whatever mode the analyzer is in currently.Stop Measurement Clicking this icon will halt any ongoing measurement on the analyzer.Configure Connection SettingsClicking this icon will allow you to change your configuration settings.Connect Clicking this icon will attempt to establish a connection between your computer and your analyzer.
7 Controlling Your Analyzer From Your PC170 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificDisconnect Clicking this icon will disconnect your computer from your analyzer.Live DownloadSee Live Download from NDTrConfigure Connection SettingsClicking on the Configure Connection Settings icon allows you to change the Com Port for connecting your computer to your analyzer. Once you click on the icon, a settings dialog box will appear.Figure 69. Connection Settings Dialog BoxSelecting the Com PortSelecting the down arrow in the "Connect Using" field will display the various Com Ports on the computer that the analyzer can connect through. Figure 70. Selecting the Com PortSelect the proper com port from the list, then select the OK Button.
7 Controlling Your Analyzer From Your PCThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 171Operating Your Analyzer RemotelyNDTr version 7 and above will automatically select the proper virtual interface for you, whether you have a Thermo Scientific Niton XL2 or XL3. The virtual interface operates exactly as the analyzer would. Selecting the buttons, icons and menus with your mouse works exactly as if you were selecting them with your finger or stylus on the real analyzer.Figure 71. Niton XL3 Virtual Interface Live Download from NDTrOnce you have connected to your analyzer using NDTr, click on the Download icon on the NDTr toolbar. When you click the Download icon, a Download dialog box will appear.
7 Controlling Your Analyzer From Your PC172 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificFigure 72. File Dialog BoxDest Folder This field shows the last used save folder, defaulting to the folder where NDT is installed.... (Browse Folders) Button Selecting this button enables you to select a different folder for saving the file. This will change the Dest Folder Field.Selected File This shows the filename the reading will be saved to unless you change it. ... (Browse Files) Button Selecting this button enables you to select a different file name by browsing the file listing. The file extension “.ndt” will be appended to the name - i.e. File name “file” will be saved as “file.ndt” and the file will be in the NDT format.Save the Reading to CSV File as Well CheckboxSelecting this checkbox enables you to create a second autosave file with CSV format for importing into spreadsheets such as Excel. This file will have the same name as the NDT file above, but with the file extension “.csv” instead - i.e. “test.ndt” will be saved as “test.csv” as well. The checkbox is selected when there is a check in it, and deselected when it is empty.Always Show this Dialog Box when the File button is Pressed Checkbox Selecting this checkbox will enable you to change the filename whenever you want. Deselecting this checkbox will save the file under the same name in the same folder every time. The checkbox is selected when there is a check in it, and deselected when it is empty.
173Learning More, Service, and SupportThis section of the Resource guide is about getting the most out of your analyzer. We cover troubleshooting your analyzer by using the Specs screen. We also cover advanced topics like setting thresholds, using the Tools menu, correcting for light elements in the sample composition, setting up pass/fail analysis, changing safety and start/stop parameters, and many other special situations you may need. We have also included a number of documents for reference, so you can learn more about XRF analysis if you are so inclined. Replacing the Measurement WindowWARNING Before you begin, remove the battery from your analyzer!•Remove the two screws holding the Measurement Window Bracket to the nose of your analyzer. Figure 1. Removing the Window Bracket Screws• Remove the Measurement Window Bracket from the analyzer, and turn it over, exposing the back with seal and Measurement Window.• Remove the old Measurement Window from the bracket.• Clean the Window area thoroughly, using a clean, guaranteed lint-free cloth and isopropyl alcohol.
8 Learning More, Service, and SupportReplacing the Measurement Window174 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificFigure 2. Removing the Old Window • Measurement Windows come in two types - Prolene (P.N 187-1454) for 900 Series analyzers, and Polypropylene (P/N 187-1555) for all other analyzers..Figure 3. Polyethylene Window P/N 187-1555.Figure 4. Prolene Window PN 187-1454
8 Learning More, Service, and SupportReplacing the Measurement WindowThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 175• When the bracket is clean, remove the backing from the Measurement Window. Place the window on the Bracket gently. Make sure the opaque portions of the window do not intrude over the large measurement hole in the Bracket.Figure 5. Removing the Backing from Prolene Window (Left) and Applying Window to Bracket (Right)CAUTION Do not use fingers to press window into place! Use a smooth, hard surface such as back of tweezers.Figure 6. Measurement Window Replaced• Replace Window Bracket on the front of your analyzer, then insert screws.
8 Learning More, Service, and SupportReplacing the Measurement Window176 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificThe Specs ScreenFigure 7. The Specs Screen Menu PathSelect the Specs icon from the System Menu to display the analyzer's specifications. These specifications include your analyzer's serial number, software and firmware versions, and other data. Press the Close Screen Button to return to the previous menu. Press the ">-" Screen Button to go to the Diagnostic Menu, and press the "<-" Screen Button to return to the Specifications Screen.
8 Learning More, Service, and SupportReplacing the Measurement WindowThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 177Figure 8. The Specifications ScreenOn the Specs Screen, standard information on the state of your analyzer is shown for your reference. This information should be reported to Service if there is a problem.Specs InformationThe following is the information supplied on the Specs Screen:Instrument Specific Serial NumberThis is located in the left part of the blue band at the top of the screen.Model NumberThis is located in the right part of the blue band at the top of the screen.Date And TimeThis is the current Date and Time. This is particularly important for date stamping.SW VersionThis is the currently loaded software version, which should be reported to Service if there is any problem.FPGAThis is the currently loaded FPGA software version, which should be reported to Service if there is any problem. FPGA versions are always a four digit number. Any other number of digits may be a sign of a problem in the FPGA code.
8 Learning More, Service, and SupportReplacing the Measurement Window178 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificFactory QCThis is the date that the machine was QCed at the factory.Energy CalThis line notes the last time a System Check was performed.BatteryThis line gives the proportional charge remaining to the battery.System Check ReminderSelect the OFF Screen Button after "System Check Reminder" to set a reminder to calibrate your analyzer. Selecting the button will open the Cal. Reminder Editor. Select the number of days you want between reminders with the numeric keys. Of the other screen buttons, C = Clear All, E = Enter, and OFF shuts off the Reminder Function. Selecting the E button will enter the current value as the reminder interval and return to the Specs Screen.Figure 9. Cal Reminder Editor ScreenDiagnosticsSelect the "->" Screen Button to load the Diagnostics Screen. The Diagnostics Screen shows Detector Temperature, Bias, Cooler Voltage, SubBias, Energy Scale, and Temperature in C and F scales.
8 Learning More, Service, and SupportReplacing the Measurement WindowThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 179The Diagnostics Screen can be of great utility in assuring proper operation of your analyzer.Figure 10. The Diagnostics ScreenThe proper ranges of operational values on the Diagnostics Screen follow.Det Temp:Detector Temperature should be within this range:- 25 + or - 5 degreesBias:Bias should be within this range:175 + or - 10VCool:VCool will vary with the ambient temperature.SubBias:SubBias should be within this range:-11 + or - 3Escale:Escale should be within this range:
8 Learning More, Service, and SupportReplacing the Measurement Window180 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo Scientific6.6 through 9.0Preamp:Preamp value should only be noted, and reported to Service if there is a problem.Error MessagesThe analyzer will auto-detect many perceived hardware problems and may display the following error messages:Figure 11. The Specs Screen Menu PathPlease re-run the System Check and if the problem persists, contact customer service.
8 Learning More, Service, and SupportRegistration and Licensing FAQThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 181Registration and Licensing FAQNiton XL3t and XL3t GOLDDAs a user of a Niton XL3t 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. Below is a list of commonly asked questions that come up when filling out registration forms.FAQ Q: What is the max mA, max kVp, and max power?A: Maximum mA is 0.1 mAMaximum kVp is 50 kVpMaximum power: 2 wattsQ: What is the accelerator voltage or MeV?A: This should be filled out as not applicable N/A as it does not apply to Niton XL3t analyzers.Q: What is the radioisotope?A: There are no radioactive isotopes in Niton XL3t analyzers.Q: What category is the Niton XL3t?A: States differ greatly in their categories; the following is a list of common categories:• X-Ray Fluorescence• Analytical or Analytical XRF• Open Beam or Open Beam Analytical• Portable Gauge or Portable XRF• Industrial Analytical or Non-Destructive TestingWhen selecting the category make sure that you don't select medical or radiographic.
8 Learning More, Service, and SupportRegistration and Licensing FAQ182 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificQ: How many tubes are in the Niton XL3t?A: One.Q: What is the analyzer serial number?A: The serial number is a 5 digit number located on the yellow sticker on the underside of your analyzer.Q: What is the tube serial number?A: The serial number of the tube can be found on the Calibration Certificate.Q: What is the type of X-Ray Processing?A: None. Niton XL3t analyzers do not use film.Q: How often do I need to perform leak tests on the Niton XL3t?A: Never. Leak tests are only required for analyzers with radioactive isotopes. Niton XL3t analyzers do not have radioactive isotopes.Niton XL3pRoutine Maintenance GuidelinesMaintenance, Cleaning and Repairs To ensure the reliability, durability, and performance of your Niton Analyzer, keep it clean—especially the transparent measurement window covering the analysis window. Clean the measurement window gently with a cotton swab. Clean the body of the analyzer with a soft cloth. Never use detergents, or solvents on your analyzer, or immerse your analyzer in water. If the measurement window becomes frayed, ripped, or contaminated with metal particulates, replace it with a new window. measurement windows (Standard Window Niton P/N 187-1555 or Helium Purge Window Niton P/N 187-1454) may be ordered from Thermo Fisher Scientific’s Service Department in the United States, toll free, at (800) 875-1578, or outside the United States, at +1-978-670-7460 or from your local Authorized Niton Analyzers Service Center.
8 Learning More, Service, and SupportStoring and Transporting Your Niton XL3 AnalyzerThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 183From time to time, your touch screen will need cleaning. Niton recommends that you use a lens cleaning solution with a soft cloth. Do not use water to clean your Niton Analyzer. WARNING All Service, except exterior cleaning and measurement window replacement, must be performed by Thermo Scientific or an Authorized Niton Analyzers Service Center. Do not attempt to make repairs yourself. Opening the case of your Niton will void the analyzer Warranty in its entirety.CAUTION Always obtain a Return Authorization (RA) number from Thermo Fisher Scientific’s Service Department in the United States, toll free, at (800) 875-1578, or outside the United States, at +1-978-670-7460 before returning your analyzer to the Niton Service Department or local Authorized Niton Analyzers Service Center.Storing and Transporting Your Niton XL3 AnalyzerAll Niton Analyzers are transported in waterproof, drop-resistant, fully padded carrying cases with padlocks. In most countries, Niton XRF analyzers may be transported by car or plane or shipped as an ordinary package. For most courier services, no special labels are required on the outside of the Niton analyzer case or on additional packaging.Figure 12. The Niton Carrying Case
8 Learning More, Service, and SupportStoring and Transporting Your Niton XL3 Analyzer184 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificAll padlocks are shipped with a default combination of “0-0-0”. If you change this combination, please inform Thermo of the new combination if you return the unit for service.To change the combination: 1. Dial the default combination to open the lock, and pull out the shackle. 2. Rotate the shackle 180 degrees and push it down as far as it can go. 3. While holding the shackle down, rotate it 90 degrees back in either direction and release shackle. 4. Change the dial settings to the desired combination, record the combination, and without disturbing the dials, rotate the shackle back 90 degrees to the position it had in step 2.5. Pull shackle out and rotate it 180 degrees and secure it. Your lock now has its own secret combination.CAUTION Always transport the unit in its padded carrying case, and store the Niton Analyzer in its case whenever it is not being used.CAUTION In most cases, no notification is required if transporting within state boundaries. This may not be the case when entering federal properties.CAUTION Within the United States, always keep a copy of the US DOT compliance statement in your Niton analyzer case at all times. A copy is included with your analyzer.CAUTION Always follow all pertinent local and national regulations and guidelines, wherever your analyzer is transported or used.CAUTION Always obtain a Return Authorization (RA) number from Thermo Fisher Scientific’s Service Department in the United States, toll free, at (800) 875-1578, or outside the United States, at +1-978-670-7460 before returning your analyzer to the Service Department or to your local Authorized Niton Analyzers Service Center.CAUTION If you return your Niton analyzer without the carrying case, you will void your warranty in its entirety. You will be billed for a replacement case plus any repairs resulting from improper shipping.CAUTION CAUTION Always remove the battery pack when transporting or storing your analyzer.
185Advanced SettingsAdjusting the Element Range Figure 1. The Range Menu Path (Main)Multi-Range tests are used to either preferentially excite specific elements for increased sensitivity, or to cover a wider element range than one Range alone can provide. Most modes, when enabled, will use two Ranges in sequence to produce a combined analysis result. In typical
8 Advanced Settings186 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo Scientificalloy analysis applications, Main Range is used for the analysis of most elements, Low Range is utilized for the subsequent high sensitivity analysis of V, Ti, and Cr, and Light Range is available only with He-purged and 900 series GOLDD technology analyzers, and is typically used in light element analysis. Multi-Range switching can be set to activate off time alone, or, when time switching is disabled, off settings in the General Metals grade library. In most modes, Low and Light Range add the capability to analyze light elements which cannot be efficiently excited by Mid Range.Figure 2. Selecting the ModeSelect the mode you wish to configure. You can set different configurations for different modes.TheElement Range Screenenables you to directly enable or disable any Range, or control the time that a Range alters the irradiation of the sample before auto-switching to another Range.
8 Advanced SettingsThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 187Figure 3. The Element CheckboxesSelect the checkbox next to the Range you want to use to determine exactly which of the Ranges contained in your Analyzer is used for sample testing. Selecting an empty checkbox will enable that range and place a check into the box as an indicator. Selecting a checked box will disable the Range and clear the box.In typical alloy analysis applications, Main Range is used for the analysis of most elements. You cannot deselect the Main Range in alloy analysisLow Range is utilized for the subsequent high sensitivity analysis of V, Ti, and Cr.
8 Advanced Settings188 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo Scientific Figure 4. The Range Element ListsSelect the Element List Button to display the Element List for that Range. This list shows the elements that the Range is best designed to detect.
8 Advanced SettingsThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 189 Figure 5. The Range Time FieldsSelect the Range Time field for the intended range to change the switch time for that range. The Range Time Editor will appear. This enables you to set the number of seconds each enabled range is allotted before auto-switching will occur when needed during sample testing. Your analyzer will auto-switch from one range to another when the testing time for that range is greater than or equal to the time you have chosen, and the identified alloy is flagged as needing the switch in the Niton Alloy Library.
8 Advanced Settings190 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificFigure 6. The Range Time EditorSelect the C button to clear the current time, then from the virtual numeric key pad, select each digit you want to input, then select the E button to enter.
8 Advanced SettingsTools Menu OptionsThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 191Tools Menu OptionsThe following options can be performed from the Tools Menu. Options which are only on the main Tools Menu are listed as (Main). Those which can be found only on the alternate Tools Menu are listed as (Alt).Avg ForwardEnables you to average different readings together from this analysis forward. Select the Avg Forward button to initiate future sample averaging. Avg Forward will set up an automatic personal averaging protocol to be followed until your analyzer is shut down, or this feature is disabled. To begin, select the number of readings you want to average from the virtual numeric keypad. Your analyzer will calculate an average reading after that number of tests, and continue this pattern until stopped. For example, if you select 3 on the virtual keypad, the analyzer will automatically calculate, average, and store a reading for every three tests you take, storing the individual readings along the way.The range number is selected using a virtual numeric keypad on your analyzer similar to the keypad used for login. Select the digits in the range number from the keypad, then select the E button to enter the number. The C button will clear all, and the “<“ button will clear the last digit entered. The average will automatically be displayed.
8 Advanced SettingsTools Menu Options192 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo Scientific Figure 7. Example Averaging ScreensAvg Back (Alt)Note The alternate Tools Menuis only available when viewing readings, and the menu is only accessible through the touch screen interface or NDTr.
8 Advanced SettingsTools Menu OptionsThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 193Enables you to average different readings together from this analysis backward. Select the Avg Back option to initiate backwards sample averaging. Avg Back will take the number of readings you select and average their analytical results. The range is counted from the last reading backward by the number of readings selected. If your last reading was #15, selecting 3 would average readings #13, 14, and 15. The average is calculated, displayed, and stored into memory as the next sequential reading number, in this case, #16.The range number is selected using a virtual numeric keypad on your analyzer similar to the keypad used for login. Select the digits in the range number from the keypad, then select the E button to enter the number. The C button will clear all, and the “<“ button will clear the last digit entered. The average will automatically be displayed.Figure 8. The Virtual Numeric KeypadNote You cannot average readings taken in different modes. Doing this will generate an error.Spectrum:On/Spectrum:OffThe Tools Menu contains a toggle option to display live spectra as sample analysis occurs.Activating and Deactivating the Live SpectrumFrom the Tools Menu, select the Spectra:On button to turn the Spectrum feed on. Once the spectrum is displayed, selecting Spectra:Off from the Tools Menu will stop the live spectrum display.
8 Advanced SettingsTools Menu Options194 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificFigure 9. Example Analysis Screen Showing Live SpectrumPrint (Alt)Select the Print option from the Tools Menu to print the current analysis screen to any attached portable printer. If you do not have a portable printer attached to your analyzer, nothing will happen.Set Pass/FailYou can set up your analyzer to sort on a pass/fail basis. Pass/Fail uses the chemistry of a user-generated list of alloys in the library as a basis for comparison. If the sample analysis is entirely within the specifications for one of these alloys, a PASS result is given, otherwise a FAIL result is returned. To turn on Pass/Fail, select the Tools Menu and select Set Pass/Fail from the menu. The Pass/Fail Setup Screen will come up.
8 Advanced SettingsTools Menu OptionsThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 195Figure 10. Set Pass/Fail ScreenAdd/Remove (Toggle)Select alloys from the Available list and then the Add Button to move the alloy to the Selected List. Select alloys from the Selected list and then the Remove Button to remove the alloys from the Selected List.SaveSelect the Save Button to save these criteria.CloseSelect the Close Button to exit without saving.PassSelect the Pass Single button to initiate Pass Mode. Use Pass Mode when you have a desirable match. If the alloy being analyzed matches one of the alloys in the selected list, the alloy will Pass the analysis.Fail Select the Fail button to initiate Fail Mode. Use Fail Single Mode when you have an undesirable match. If the alloy being analyzed matches one of the alloys in the selected list, the alloy will Fail the analysis.
8 Advanced SettingsTools Menu Options196 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificSetting the Reference Alloys for Pass or FailBefore you use Pass or Fail mode, you need to set the Reference Alloys. Select the alooy or alloys from the slide down menu on the Pass Fail Setup Screen, then select the Add button.Figure 11. . The Pass Fail Setup ScreenSearching for Reference AlloysSelect the Search button to search the library for the alloy you want as your Reference Alloy. Figure 12. Using the Search Function
8 Advanced SettingsTools Menu OptionsThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 197Type the name of your reference alloy into the Virtual Keyboard, and the left column will display any matches. Select the match you want and the Add button to make it your reference alloy.Figure 13. Search ResultsUHow Pass/Fail Mode WorksPass/Fail Mode compares the chemistry to that of the alloy(s) selected, using the cutoff you selected. When the sample analysis reaches a match with the chemistry of any one of the alloys on the Selected list, a PASS or FAIL notice is generated as appropriate.Figure 14. Metals Pass and Fail Screens
8 Advanced SettingsTools Menu Options198 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificSwitch Library (Main)Selecting the Switch Library button from the Tools Menu will swap the currently loaded library with the other library on the analyzer. Selecting Switch Library again will switch them back.Enable/Disable AlNormally, the collective amount of unquantifiable light elements in alloy analysis - the "balance" - is assumed to be aluminum and labeled as such in the analysis. Selecting the Disable Al button from the Tools Menu will delete this "aluminum" from the analysis results, showing only the quantified elements. Selecting the Enable Al button, the default state, will label this "balance" as "aluminum".Thickness CorrectionPlastics, and polymers in general, unlike metals or soil, are very weak absorbers of X rays. This is because polymers are composed mainly of very light elements such as carbon and hydrogen. While just half a millimeter of steel will completely stop 23.1 keV energy X rays of cadmium, for example, it takes at least 10mm of plasticized PVC and as much as 100mm of polyethylene (PE) to do so. Fortunately, polymers that may contain cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb) and other restricted elements would also contain considerable quantity of elements such as antimony (Sb), bromine (Br), titanium (Ti), etc. Their presence results in much stronger absorption of X rays which means that, instead of 100mm, it takes only about 15mm of compounded PE to achieve saturation thickness for these X rays. If the thickness of analyzed polymer sample is less than 5mm for PVC or less than about 9mm for a “typical” PE, the measured intensity of X rays will be a function of both analyte concentration and sample thickness. This is why measurements performed on thin samples (less than saturation thickness) need to be corrected for thickness.How to apply Thickness Correction.In order for the instrument to apply thickness correction to the measured concentration results, the user must be using the Thickness Correction screen and enter the thickness of the analyzed plastic object expressed in [mm] before the measurement is initiated. The thickness may be entered with precision to the second decimal place, although in practice only one decimal place is sufficient for effective correction.
8 Advanced SettingsTools Menu OptionsThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 199Figure 15. How to Enable and Adjust Thickness Correction for Plastics Analysis
8 Advanced SettingsTools Menu Options200 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificWhen to use Thickness CorrectionThickness Correction should only be used during the analysis of plastic (polymer) objects. It has been experimentally verified that the correction algorithm will yield satisfactory results, for a 60 second minimum testing time, for samples as thin as 0.3mm. Nevertheless, the recommended range of use of the correction is from 1mm upwards. It is imperative that this correction is not used for thin films such as single foils and plastic membranes; analysis of thin films is performed using the Thin Sample Mode. (Contact Contact Thermo Scientific or your local Niton Analyzers representative for information on this testing mode.)Whenever possible, one should analyze as thick a sample as available. For example, if the analyzed object is a piece of heatshrink tubing with wall thickness of 0.3mm, the best way to analyze it is to obtain several pieces of the tubing (four for example) and stack them like a flat sandwich, with the thickness correction set to 1.2mm. Doing so makes for faster and more precise analyses. While it would be possible to analyze just a single layer of the tubing with correction at 0.3 mm, by stacking several layers we reduce the relative error of measurement (by a factor approximately equal to the square root of the number of layers). Conversely, when analyzing thinner samples, we need to extend the measurement time fourfold (by the number of layers) in order to maintain the same relative error of measurement. We can see how quickly measurement time would escalate to impractical levels for thinner samples.Examples: The most frequent instances in which thickness correction would be called for are analyses of plastic sheeting or plastic insulation on wires and/or cables and heat shrink tubing. Flat plastic sheeting or plastic enclosures pose no problems. We can either analyze an object “as is”, or stack several layers of it before analysis. Plastic insulation such as that on wiring or cables requires a little more sophisticated approach. First, the wire must be removed so that only insulation is analyzed. Then, the insulation should be flattened for analysis, and a thickness correction should be applied that is equal to double the wall thickness. Alternatively, if the insulation is stiff, it should be cut lengthwise into strands which are placed on the indtrument for analysis. The applied thickness correction should be equal to the wall thickness of the sleeve. Both operations are shown in Figure 37 and Figure 38.Figure 16. Wire Insulation Cut Into Strands
8 Advanced SettingsTools Menu OptionsThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 201Figure 17. PVC Wire Insulation With Conductor RemovedA piece of large diameter heat shrink tubing presents an interesting case. It is tempting to analyze this object as is - see Figure 39. However, one needs to know that while lead or bromine or chromium X-rays from the upper wall of tubing will not contribute to the signal measured, X rays of such elements as cadmium, antimony, tin or barium in the upper wall will significantly contribute to overall signal. It is therefore imperative to either flatten the tubing for analysis or cut it in pieces and then analyze as shown in Figure 40.Figure 18. . Incorrect Way to Measure Heat Shrink TubingFigure 19. . Correct Way to Measure Heat Shrink TubingWARNING Thickness correction is only for use with plastic/polymer samples.
8 Advanced SettingsTools Menu Options202 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificEnable/Disable PaintSelecting the Enable Paint option from the Tools Menu will enable the Painted Products mode and toggle the option to Disable Paint. Selecting the Disable Paint option will disable Painted Products mode and toggle the option to Enable Paint.Action LevelSelecting the Action Level option from the Tools Menu will anable you to change the action level used for qualitative testing.Print DataSelecting the Print Data option from the Tools Menu will print the currently displayed data to the optional attached printer. See Setting Up the Printer for details.Coatings MethodMetals are sometimes coated with various materials. If you wish to analyze the coating, select the Coatings Method.
8 Advanced SettingsTools Menu OptionsThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 203Passwords and User Privileges1. Install the latest version of Niton software (NDT) on your PC, if possible. You may obtain the latest version of NDT by contacting service at 800-875-1578.2. You can check the version number by opening NDT, selecting the Help menu, then selecting “About Niton Data Transfer”Figure 20. . Selecting Help3. Select the File menuFigure 21. Selecting File4. Select “New” then “New Password File”. Your screen should look like this:
8 Advanced SettingsTools Menu Options204 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificFigure 22. Creating the Security Key5. Create a unique security key, then select the OK ButtonFigure 23. Security Key6. Your screen should look like this:
8 Advanced SettingsTools Menu OptionsThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 205Figure 24. User Account Creation Screen7. Right click, then select “New User”Figure 25. User Creation Dialog Box
8 Advanced SettingsTools Menu Options206 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo Scientific8. Enter a user name and password, then select the privileges assigned to this user. Selecting the Check All check box will result in enabling all features.Figure 26. . Creating a UserWARNING it is recommended that only users at the highest level have access to the “Safety” feature. This should be unchecked for all other operators.
8 Advanced SettingsTools Menu OptionsThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 207Figure 27. Unchecking Safety9. Select the Update ButtonFigure 28. User is Createda. You are now ready to upload your password file to the analyzer.
8 Advanced SettingsTools Menu Options208 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo Scientific10. Be sure the analyzer is switched on; connect the analyzer using USB or serial connection.11. Select the Upload icon.Figure 29. Selecting Upload12. Your screen should look like this:
8 Advanced SettingsTools Menu OptionsThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 209Figure 30. Selecting Upload13. Select the Settings Button and choose the comm port that your analyzer is connect to.14. Select the Connect Button, then the Upload Button.15. Upon completion, you will receive a “File Upload Successfully Completed” message.16. Click the OK Button; save your password file at this time by selecting the File icon then “Save As.
8 Advanced SettingsTools Menu Options210 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificFigure 31. Successful Installation Message17. Restart your analyzer; your password file should be successfully installed.
8 Advanced SettingsNDF Files: User Data StructuringThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 211NDF Files: User Data StructuringCreating New User-Defined FieldsYou can create your own data entry fields for your Niton analyzer customized to your own needs and usage. These fields are saved in a special format called an NDF (Niton Data File) file. To create a new NDF file, select the File menu, then select New, then select New NDF File.Figure 32. Creating a New NDF FileThis will create a new window in which you can create your own fields, and specify their structure and parameters. The new window will appear with a single box, called “Untitled.”
8 Advanced SettingsNDF Files: User Data Structuring212 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificFigure 33. NDF File Work AreaBy right-clicking on this box, you can access a pop-up menu allowing you to set the mode of the new data fields. Select New Mode to access the menu.Figure 34. Selecting New ModeThe Mode you select will be the Mode within which the new data entry fields will appear. If you have multiple Modes enabled on your analyzer, the new fields will only be available from the Mode you select. Only the default fields will be available from the other Mode or Modes.
8 Advanced SettingsNDF Files: User Data StructuringThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 213Figure 35. Selecting ModeWhen you select the Mode for the new data fields, the Construction Window will change to look like this:Figure 36. Working within a ModeThe “M” indicates the mode you have chosen - in this case Alloy Mode. Right click on the Mode name to access a pop-up menu.
8 Advanced SettingsNDF Files: User Data Structuring214 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificFigure 37. Mode Pop-Up MenuSelect New Field from the menu, and a blank new field will appear in the construction window.Figure 38. Adding a New FieldRight clicking on the New Field box will bring up another pop-up menu. This menu gives you various options for using the field in your operations.Selecting Required makes it mandatory that the new field be filled in prior to taking a measurement. This is very useful for necessary descriptors which vary from measurement to measurement, such as lot numbers, condition descriptors, locations, etc.
8 Advanced SettingsNDF Files: User Data StructuringThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 215Figure 39. Making Fields RequiredSelecting the Incremental option sets up a field which increments the field descriptor by one for each measurement taken. This option is handy for measuring several items with identical descriptors, such as samples within a single lot, or several instances of the same part number, because it appends the incremental number to the descriptor.For example: P/N 455A2-1, P/N 455A2-2, P/N 455A2-3.Another Example: Impeller-1, Impeller-2, Impeller-3.Figure 40. Making Fields Incremental
8 Advanced SettingsNDF Files: User Data Structuring216 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificSelecting Clear Every Reading will toggle between two states. By default, the field will fill with the data which was input during the last reading. By selecting Clear Every Reading, you tell the instrument to clear the data from the field for each new reading, insuring that the person taking the reading must input new data each time. This is very useful for times when the data descriptor is expected to vary widely between readings. Figure 41. Clearing Data for New ReadingsThe state of each of these options can be seen in the Field Status Window at the bottom of the Construction Window. All options in effect for the field selected are checked.Figure 42. Field Status Window - DefaultThis shows a field with no options in effect, the default configuration. This is a field that will present the previous reading’s data for this field - which may be changed by the user - without incrementing it, but does not require the user to input any data if there is none already there from a previous reading.
8 Advanced SettingsNDF Files: User Data StructuringThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 217Figure 43. Field Status Window - Options EnabledThis shows a field with both Requiredand Clear Every Reading options in effect. This presents a field that is cleared for each reading, and must be filled in by the user before a reading is taken.Selecting Edit from the pop-up menu allows you to edit the name of the field in the Editing Window to the right of the Construction Window.Figure 44. Editing the Field NameSelecting the box to the left of the field toggles the Required option on or off.
8 Advanced SettingsNDF Files: User Data Structuring218 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificFigure 45. Toggling the Required OptionSelecting Copy from the pop-up window allows you to copy the currently selected field.
8 Advanced SettingsNDF Files: User Data StructuringThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 219Figure 46. Copying the Current FieldOnce you copy a field, the Paste option can be selected to paste the copied field into the Construction Window.Figure 47. Pasting a Copied FieldSelecting the New Entry option from the pop-up menu allows you to define a choice for the user for this field.
8 Advanced SettingsNDF Files: User Data Structuring220 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificFigure 48. Creating a New EntryThis is a New Entry in the Construction Window. Figure 49. New Entry in the Construction WindowThe “E” is for “Entry.” You can edit the entry once it is created, the same way as you edit the field name. Right click on the entry name, and choose Edit from the pop-up menu.Figure 50. Editing the New EntryYou can sort your entries by name, alphanumerically, by right clicking on the field and selecting “Sort” from the pop-up menu.
8 Advanced SettingsNDF Files: User Data StructuringThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 221Figure 51. Sorting EntriesTo delete a field or entry, just right click on the item you wish to delete, and select Delete From the pop-up menu.Figure 52. Deleting Fields and EntriesWhen you are finished creating your new NDF file, Upload it to your instrument using the Upload icon. Figure 53. Uploading the NDF FileMake sure the instrument is connected to your computer by testing the connection first. Use the Test button on the Upload Window.
8 Advanced SettingsNDF Files: User Data Structuring222 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificFigure 54. Testing the Upload Connection
8 Advanced SettingsSafety SettingsThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 223Safety SettingsAccess to the Safety Settings Screen is blocked unless the user logging in has explicitly been granted Safety access. The default login of 1234 does not have Safety access. See Passwords and User Privileges.Figure 55. . Safety Settings Menu Path
8 Advanced SettingsSafety Settings224 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificThe Safety Settings Screen enables you to change the Method of Operation for your analyzer. Each checkbox on the screen enables or disables the safety device named for purposes of the preconditions for operation. For example, checking the Proximity Button Required checkbox sets the engagement of the Proximity Sensor as a precondition for operation. Checking the Proximity Button Required checkbox and the Interlock Button Required checkbox sets the engagement of both the Proximity Button and the Interlock Button as preconditions for operation.Safety settings always override start-stop settings. If your safety setting requires the use of the Proximity Button, you cannot set start-stop settings which ignore the Proximity Button. For example, the Easy Trigger start-stop setting must have the Backscatter safety setting enabled. While using Easy Trigger, you cannot disable Backscatter.WARNING The backscatter sensor is enabled by default and acts as a recommended safety feature for most applications. Some sample types, however, cannot be analyzed when this feature is enabled. Samples that present very little mass to the analysis window, such as certain thin films, thin layers of plastic, and very thin wires, may not be of sufficient mass to allow the analysis to continue while backscatter is enabled. One should disable the backscatter feature only when necessary to analyze such low mass samples, and re-enable the feature when finished with these sample types. These samples also provide very little absorption of the primary x-ray beam so it is typically most appropriate to analyze these samples in a test stand when possible.
8 Advanced SettingsSafety SettingsThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 225Start/Stop SetupFigure 56. The Start/Stop Settings Menu PathThe Start/Stop Setting Screen enables you to change the preconditions for operation at a lower level than the Safety level. See Safety Settings for more information. Start/Stop settings cannot contradict Safety settings. If your safety setting requires the use of the Proximity Button, you cannot set start-stop settings which ignore the Proximity Button. For example, the Easy Trigger start-stop setting must have the Backscatter safety setting enabled. While using Easy Trigger, you cannot disable Backscatter.
8 Advanced SettingsSafety Settings226 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificThe Start/Stop parameter options are Proximity Start, Remote Trigger, and Easy Trigger. There is also a field to set the maximum time for sample analysis before the analysis stops.Proximity StartSelect the Proximity Start checkbox to use the Proximity Start parameters. Using Proximity Start, once the reading has been started, release of the Proximity Button will immediately stop the analysis. You cannot use Proximity Start with Easy Trigger.Remote TriggerSelect the Remote Trigger checkbox to use the Remote Trigger parameters. Remote Tigger is used with the Extend-a-Pole accessory to control the analysis. With the Extend-a-Pole's input cable connected to the analyzer's Remote Trigger port, you can initiate and stop analysis remotely from the Extend-a-Pole's handle trigger. You can use Remote Trigger with either Proximity Start or with Easy Trigger.Easy TriggerSelect the Easy Trigger checkbox to use the Easy Trigger parameters. Easy Trigger uses a single press and release of the trigger to initiate analysis, and a second press to stop analysis. Selecting Easy Trigger will immediately disable Proximity Start.Max Time Field Figure 57. The Max Test Time Editor
8 Advanced SettingsSafety SettingsThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 227Select the Max Time field to change the maximum analysis time parameter. Selecting the Max Time Field brings up a Virtual Numeric Keypad. To input the maximum number of seconds before automatic shutoff, select the C button to clear the current time, then from the Virtual Numeric Keypad, select each digit you want to input, then select the E button to enter. Of the non-numeric screen buttons, C = Clear All, E = Enter, and ">" will backspace over the current value. Selecting the E button will enter the current value as the Max Time, and return to the Start/Stop Settings Screen.Save ButtonSelecting the Save Button will save your current settings.
8 Advanced SettingsSafety Settings228 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificMethods of OperationCAUTION After being powered on, your Niton Analyzer will perform an internal re-calibration before an analysis is initiated. It is recommended that you let your analyzer warm up for ten minutes after start up, before testing is begun.There are six different methods of operation for taking a sample measurement, and your analyzer will be configured to use one of those methods for alloy samples, depending on the regulatory requirements of your locality. These methods are:• Trigger-Only method. With the Trigger-Only method, you only need to place the measurement window flush with the sample to be analyzed and pull the trigger for sample analysis to be initiated.• Trigger-and-Proximity-Sensor method. With the Trigger-and-Proximity-Sensor method, you must place the measurement window against the sample to be analyzed to engage the proximity sensor on the front of the analyzer, then pull the trigger for sample analysis to be initiated.• Momentary-Trigger-Touch-and-Proximity-Sensor method. With the Momentary-Trigger-Touch-and-Proximity-Sensor method, you must place the measurement window against the surface to be analyzed to engage the proximity sensor on the front of the analyzer, then pull the trigger. The trigger may be released and the reading will continue until you release the proximity button, or other criteria (such as Max Time) are reached.• Trigger-and-Interlock method. With the Trigger-and-Interlock method, you need to place the measurement window close to the sample to be analyzed, press and keep pressing the interlock button at the rear of the analyzer with your free hand, then pull the trigger for sample analysis to be initiated.• Trigger-Interlock-and-Proximity-Sensor method. With the Trigger-Interlock-and-Proximity-Sensor method, you must place the measurement window against the sample to be analyzed to engage the proximity sensor on the front of the analyzer, press and keep pressing the interlock button at the rear of the analyzer with your free hand, then pull the trigger for sample analysis to be initiated.• Easy Trigger method. With the Easy trigger method, you need only place the measurement window against the sample area and pull the trigger once to initiate a sample analysis. Your analyzer will continuously sample the backscatter, using a complex internal algorithm, to determine if the measurement window is against a sample or pointing to the empty air. If it finds that there is no sample directly against the measurement window, the analyzer will stop directing radiation through the window as soon as this determination is made.The analyzer is constantly checking the backscatter characteristics to determine if a sample is against the measurement window, whether or not the Easy Trigger method is being used, and will shut off any radiation directed through the window if it determines that there is no sample present.
8 Advanced SettingsSafety SettingsThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 229With any of these methods, analysis will stop if any one of the preconditions are violated. For example, with the Trigger-Interlock-and-Proximity-Sensor method, if the trigger or the Proximity Sensor or the Interlock is released, the reading will stop immediately, and the X-ray tube will shut down.After your analyzer is calibrated, initiate a sample reading using the appropriate method. If you attempt to initiate a sample reading using a different method, the analyzer will inform you that one or more of the preconditions need to be met in order for sample analysis to begin.Note The LED lights will blink whenever the x-ray tube is on.WARNING The nose 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 LogOn screen. Any test data collected prior to reset will be lost and the testing may have to be repeated.WARNING The preconditions for operation must be continued for the duration of the reading. If the preconditions are violated, the x-ray tube will turn off, the calibration shutter will close, and the measurement will end. The LED lights will stop blinking when the measurement is ended. The flashing of the LED lights is not synchronized to minimize power consumption.To end the test, simply release the trigger mechanism, or any other applicable preconditions.
8 Advanced SettingsCamera and Small Spot Video230 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificCamera and Small Spot Video The Camera feature is only usable with properly configured analyzers, and the Small Spot feature is only available on Small Spot analyzers. If your analyzer is equipped with an internal video camera, you can turn that camera on and off, and turn the saving of images with the readings on and off through an interface. When the camera is on, the image will show in the Ready to Test screen, as in Figure 123. If the camera is off, saving of images will also be off. If the camera is on and the image saving function is also on, the images will automatically be saved with the reading. Saving images will curtail the maximum number of readings stored.How to Use the Camera When a Camera equipped analyzer is in the Ready to Test screen, the video feed appears live on the analyzer’s touch screen. This is the image that can be saved with the sample analysis. When you take a measurement, if you choose to do so, the bitmap image will be saved on the analyzer along with the analysis results. The interface is accessible through the System menu, as in Figure 120.
8 Advanced SettingsCamera and Small Spot VideoThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 231Figure 58. The Camera Menu Path
8 Advanced SettingsCamera and Small Spot Video232 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificFigure 59. Setting Up the Camera View and Image SavingSelecting the empty checkbox next to Enable Camera will turn the internal camera on, displaying the camera view in the Ready to Test screen. Selecting the checkbox again turns the camera off. Enable Camera is enabled by default.Selecting the empty checkbox next to Save Image will enable image saving with the analysis. Selecting the checkbox again will disable automatic saving of image data. Save Image is enabled by default.Stored camera images from previous measurements can be viewed on the analyzer.How to Use the Small Spot TechnologyWith a properly equipped Small Spot analyzer, you can restrict the analysis to a small spot within the camera view. You can toggle the Spot on and off from the Tools Menu as in Figure 122.A red circle will appear on the display. The circle marks the area analyzed.
8 Advanced SettingsCamera and Small Spot VideoThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 233
8 Advanced SettingsCamera and Small Spot Video234 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificFigure 60. Toggling the Small Spot from the TOOLS MenuUsing the Small SpotThe Small Spot can be used in several different modes.Mining• 3mm spot size allows analysis of veins and inclusions in mineral samples• Initiate from Tools - Toggle Spot
8 Advanced SettingsCamera and Small Spot VideoThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 235He Purged• Helium purge allows analysis of light elements (Mg, V and Ti)• Small spot enables analysis of light elements in welds and inclusions• Helium and Small Spot modes can be used simultaneously for Metals and Mining modesCalibrating the SpotIf your instrument has small spot capability, you may calibrate the spot to optimize performance. Please follow the following procedure to calibrate the spot.Requirements: CPU code 7.0A or higher, Small Spot QC Calibration Sample part #180-607.1. Connect the instrument to NDTr. It is strongly recommended that this procedure be done in a test stand whenever possible. See Operating Your Analyzer Remotely for details.2. Log on (Default "1234")3. Enter a mode that has small spot capability. It is recommended that the you use either Metals or Electronics Alloy if possible. Then exit out to the main menu.4. Select the Small Spot Calibration icon from the Advanced Menu
8 Advanced SettingsCamera and Small Spot Video236 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificFigure 61. The Small Spot Menu Path5. From the Calibrate Spot Screen, select the Yes Button.
8 Advanced SettingsCamera and Small Spot VideoThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 237Figure 62. Selecting the Yes Button6. You will then receive a prompt asking if you want to reset the spot to the center position. It is recommended that you do this upon initial calibration. Saying "Yes" changes the position of the spot circle on the first calibration iteration to the calculated center. Saying "No" leaves this spot where it currently is for the first calibration iteration.Figure 63. Centering the Spot
8 Advanced SettingsCamera and Small Spot Video238 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo Scientific7. You will then see the small spot target on your instrument. Place the small spot calibration standard on the nose of analyzer so that the copper is in the center of the circle. If the copper is not properly centered for each of the five calibration shots, your calibration will not be valid. Figure 64. Centering the Spot8. After centering the standard, take a reading for 30 seconds. After the reading time ends, you will notice that the spot has changed orientation. Please follow the previous step and re-center your standard. You will be asked to do this a total of five times.9. You will then receive a prompt informing you of the detected X and Y position of the spot. If you made an error along the way, please select “No” and begin again. If you would like to accept the calibration, please select “Yes”.
8 Advanced SettingsCamera and Small Spot VideoThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 239Figure 65. Spot Coordinates10. Position the Small Spot Reference Sample over the calibrated spot and take a measurement. You should see >95% Cu in Metals or Electronics Alloy mode.Note The 180-607 standard is unique and should only be used for spot calibration. Figure 66. Positioning the Small Spot Reference Sample
8 Advanced SettingsCamera and Small Spot Video240 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificFigure 67. Small Spot Check Analysis
9 Helium Purged AnalysisThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 241Helium Purged AnalysisAttaching the Helium Supply to Your AnalyzerMake sure before you start that you are using a clean Prolyne Measurement Window intended for use with He-purged analysis, rather than the standard Polypropylene Measurement Window. Securely attach the regulator accompanying your analyzer to the helium tank. This custom regulator governs the helium flow to 70 cc/min flow rate. Confirm that the helium tank contains a sufficient supply for your testing purposes.Figure 68. The Helium Tank Setup - Inset Showing Regulator Dial1. Check the line for kinks, knots, or other obstructions before turning on helium flow.2. Attach the ferrule, shown in Figure 2, to the Helium Input Port, shown in Figure 3.
9 Helium Purged Analysis242 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificFigure 69. The Helium FerruleFigure 70. The Helium Input Port3. Snap the Locking Clip into the Locking Groove, securing the ferrule to the instrument, as in Figure 4.
9 Helium Purged AnalysisThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 243Figure 71. Ferrule Attached and Locked4. Turn on helium flow. Allow the helium to purge the instrument’s front end for a minimum of five minutes before starting analysis. Helium purging can be done at the same time as instrument warm-up.He-Purged AnalysisHelium purge is required for optimum detection of light elements such as Mg, Al, Si and P. For analyses using helium, we recommend using the default Range setup, as shown below in Figures 5 and 6. As with other energy dispersive XRF analyzers, the longer the testing time, the better the statistical precision of the reading. See Adjusting the Element Range for more on setting Ranges.
9 Helium Purged Analysis244 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificFigure 72. The Default Range Setups for Metals and MiningThe user can see the precision improving with analysis time by watching the third column on the analysis display – the 2-sigma error. This value decreases as reading time increases. Knowledge of this relationship is important, especially for light element work.See Metals Analysis and/or Mining Analysis for more information on sample analysis. See also Avg Forward, Spectrum:On/Spectrum:Off, Enable LEC/Disable LEC, and Set Pass/Fail for more information on specific aspects and methods of analysis.Table 1 shows the approximate limits of detection of the light elements in various matrices. If testing time is shortened, the limits of detection (which are directly based on statistical precision) will increase.Table 1. Approximate LODs for Light Elements in Fe and Al MatricesElement Fe Matrix (concentration %)Al Matrix (concentration %)Zn 0.015 0.010Cu 0.030 0.030Ni 0.050 0.010Cr 0.015 0.015V 0.010 0.010Ti 0.010 0.010
9 Helium Purged AnalysisThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 245The above LODs were calculated with 60 sec per filter measurement timesSample Requirements1. Must be flat, sit directly on top of and cover the entire measurement window.2. Surface must be clean and free of oxidation or other surface films.See Metal Sample Prep for more information for metal sample preparation, and the Mining Analysis SOP for more information on preparing mining samples.Alloy Grade LibrariesUsing a library of alloy grade specifications, your alloy analyzer will attempt to identify an alloy sample being analyzed. It does this by comparing the chemistry analysis results against the minimum and maximum specifications in the library. The library is an .alb or .clb file, and is viewable, editable, and upload-able via the included NDT program. Your analyzer can store two alloy grade libraries in its memory, and automatically chooses one of the two for use while testing. See Managing Libraries for information on how to manage your Libraries.Selecting the He LibraryThe 900 library will be auto loaded when the Light Range is selected. When the Light Range is de-selected, the standard 800 library will autoload. Selecting Switch Library (Main) from the Tools Menu will not work. It is disabled in favor of the autoloading. Alternately, you can select Toggle Helium from the Tools Menu. In non-GOLDD analyzers, this will select the Light Range and change to the 900 Library. Selecting it again will de-select the Light Range and change to the 800 Library.Al 0.031 -Si 0.075 0.150Mg 1.300 0.650Table 1. Approximate LODs for Light Elements in Fe and Al Matrices
9 Helium Purged Analysis246 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificFigure 73. Selecting Toggle He from the Tools Menu and Alt Tools MenuIn GOLDD analyzers equipped with Helium Purge, selecting the Toggle Helium function from the Tools Menu will not deselect the Light Range. Instead it switches between Helium and Non-Helium applications - the Light Range remains enabled. You may also wish to use the analyzer without the Light Range activated. To do this, deselect the light range via the Tools Menu, as shown in Figure 1-7. To use the analyzer this way, be sure helium has been completely purged from the system.Note When switching between Helium and Non-Helium applications on a GOLDD analyzer, allow the helium to dissipate out of system for at least ten minutes before beginning non-helium analysis. To expedite this process, you may remove the Measurement Window bracket for three or four minutes instead.
9 Helium Purged AnalysisThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 247Figure 74. Menu Path for De-Selecting the Light RangeGOLDD and He-Purged Analysis ResultsWhen using GOLDD technology analyzers and/or optional He-Purged analyzers, your results screen may look very different from the examples in this User’s guide, due to the general lack of elements below the LOD. Here are two analysis screens showing GOLDD analysis, for comparison.
9 Helium Purged Analysis248 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificFigure 75. All Alloy Analysis of Al 6061, Showing Fast ID of Al Alloys (Light Range Disabled)Figure 76. All Alloy Analysis of Al 6061, Showing Long Analysis of Composition (Light Range Enabled)
249ServiceSee “Contact Us” on page 1 to find your nearest Service facility.WarrantyWarranty statementSeller warrants that the Products will operate or perform substantially in conformance with Seller's published specifications and be free from defects in material and workmanship, when subjected to normal, proper and intended usage by properly trained personnel, for the period of time set forth in the product documentation, published specifications or package inserts. If a period of time is not specified in Seller’s product documentation, published specifications or package inserts, the warranty period shall be one (1) year (unless otherwise agreed upon at time of purchase) from the date of shipment to Buyer in the country of purchase. Any part replaced on an instrument, covered by the original factory warranty, will be warranted for the remainder of the instrument's factory warranty. Seller agrees during the Warranty Period, to repair or replace, at Seller's option, defective Products so as to cause the same to operate in substantial conformance with said published specifications; provided that Buyer shall (a) promptly notify Seller in writing upon the discovery of any defect, which notice shall include the product model and serial number (if applicable) and details of the warranty claim; and (b) after Seller’s review, Seller will provide Buyer with service data and/or a Return Material Authorization (“RMA”), which may include biohazard or other Radiation safety decontamination procedures and other product-specific handling instructions, then, if applicable, Buyer may return the defective Products to Seller with all costs prepaid by Buyer. Replacement parts may be new or refurbished, at the election of Seller, the warranty of these parts expire with the instrument warranty. All replaced parts shall become the property of Seller. Shipment to Buyer of repaired or replacement Products shall be made in accordance with the Delivery provisions of the Seller’s Terms and Conditions of Sale. Accessories and Consumables are expressly excluded from this warranty (see list A for details). Notwithstanding the foregoing, Products supplied by Seller that are obtained by Seller from an original manufacturer or third party supplier are not warranted by Seller, but Seller agrees to assign to Buyer any warranty rights in such Product that Seller may have from the original manufacturer or third party supplier, to the extent such assignment is allowed by such original manufacturer or third party supplier. 
9 ServiceWarranty250 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo ScientificIn no event shall Seller have any obligation to make repairs, replacements or corrections required, in whole or in part, as the result of (i) normal wear and tear, (ii) accident, disaster or event of force majeure, (iii) misuse, fault or negligence of or by Buyer, (iv) use of the Products in a manner for which they were not designed, (v) causes external to the Products such as, but not limited to, power failure or electrical power surges, (vi) improper storage and handling of the Products, (vii) use of the Products in combination with equipment or software not supplied by Seller, (viii) Moderately heavy or excessive impact against any object, including but not limited to floors, walls, furniture, sample or other objects. A shock sensor is fitted inside of the instrumentation; warranty is void if this shock sensor is activated, (ix) Excessive water, moisture or condensing humidity that breaches the instrument seals, (X) Excessive or extreme ambient or direct temperature or (vi) Heavy vibrations directly to the instrument for extended periods of time. If Seller determines that Products for which Buyer has requested warranty services are not covered by the warranty hereunder, Buyer shall pay or reimburse Seller for all costs of investigating and responding to such request at Seller's then prevailing time and materials rates. If Seller provides repair services or replacement parts that are not covered by this warranty, Buyer shall pay Seller therefore at Seller's then prevailing time and materials rates. ANY INSTALLATION, MAINTENANCE, REPAIR, SERVICE, RELOCATION OR ALTERATION TO OR OF, OR OTHER TAMPERING WITH, THE PRODUCTS PERFORMED BY ANY PERSON OR ENTITY OTHER THAN SELLER WITHOUT SELLER'S PRIOR WRITTEN APPROVAL, OR ANY USE OF REPLACEMENT PARTS NOT SUPPLIED BY SELLER, SHALL IMMEDIATELY VOID AND CANCEL ALL WARRANTIES WITH RESPECT TO THE AFFECTED PRODUCTS.THE OBLIGATIONS CREATED BY THIS WARRANTY STATEMENT TO REPAIR OR REPLACE A DEFECTIVE PRODUCT SHALL BE THE SOLE REMEDY OF BUYER IN THE EVENT OF A DEFECTIVE PRODUCT. EXCEPT AS EXPRESSLY PROVIDED IN THIS WARRANTY STATEMENT, SELLER DISCLAIMS ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, WHETHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, ORAL OR WRITTEN, WITH RESPECT TO THE PRODUCTS AND INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR ANY PARTICULAR PURPOSE. SELLER DOES NOT WARRANT THAT THE PRODUCTS ARE ERROR-FREE OR WILL ACCOMPLISH ANY PARTICULAR RESULT.Accessories, Spares and Consumables - exclusions (List A)Specific warranties of some common accessories:• Battery Charger and batteries - 12 months• Instrument accessories - 12 months• Consumable - no warranty
9 ServiceWarrantyThermo Scientific Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide 251• Soil Grinder - no warranty• Single-stage or two stage helium tank regulator - 12 months• Test stands, extend-a-poles and docking stations – 12 months• Parts or spares sold, installed or supplied outside of the product warranty period and not listed above – 12 months
9 ServiceWarranty252 Niton XL3 Analyzer User’s Guide Thermo Scientific

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