CIANFLONE X Series Use and care manual

Portaspec X Series
Multi Element Bench Top
X-ray Spectrograph
Model 2501XBT
Operations & Safety Manual
Zn
30
41.81°
Zinc
Cu
29
45.03°
Copper
Y39
23.81°
Yttrium
Br35
29.96°
Bromine
Sr38
25.15°
Strontium
Cr24
69.35°
Chromium
V23
76.92°
Vanadium Ni28
48.67°
Nickel
Co
27
52.81°
Cobalt
Mn
25
62.97°
Manganese Fe26
57.52°
Iron
Portaspec®
XRF
Analysis / Control
SCIENTIFIC
CIANFLONE
U92
26.14°
Uranium
W74
43.01°
Tungsten
Ti22
86.14°
Titanium
Au
79
36.97°
Gold
Pb
82
33.92°
Lead
Pt78
38.05°
Platinum
Mo
42
20.33°
Molybdenum
Ru
44
18.37°
Ruthenium
Hf72
45.85°
Hafnium Ag
47
16.01°
Silver Nb
41
21.40°
Niobium Zr40
22.56°
Zirconium
Ba
56
87.17°
Barium
X-Ray Tube
Detector
Collimator
Receiving
Specimen
Crystal
Source
Collimator
NOTE: This Manual contains the older Portaspec Operating Control Software Version
and is in the process of being revised and updated with the new “PCS” Portaspec Control
Software. Your Portaspec instrument may differ as well. However, this Manual will
continue to be a valuable resource in the operation and safety of the Model 2501XBT
Portaspec and all Operators should be familiar with its contents.
2021

CIANFLONE SCIENTIFIC
135 Industry Drive
Pittsburgh, PA 15275 USA
Phone: [phone]
www.cianflone.com
[e-mail]
[e-mail]
COPYRIGHT
©2015-2021 Cianflone Scientific
X Series, Version 6.1 All Rights Reserved.
TRADEMARK
Portaspec® is the registered trademark of Cianflone Scientific
NOTE: This Manual contains the older Portaspec Operating Control Software Version
and is in the process of being revised and updated with the new “PCS” Portaspec
Control Software. Your Portaspec instrument may differ as well. However, this
Manual will continue to be a valuable resource in the operation and safety of the Model
2501XBT Portaspec and all Operators should be familiar with its contents.
2021

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Section & Page Number
Copyright, Trademark Back Cover
Important Notices i
X-ray Monitoring & Reports i
Manufacturer’s Notice i
Medical Notice i
1. Introduction and Description 1-1
1.1. Model 2501 X Series Portaspec 1-1
1.2. Model 2501XBT Portaspec 1-2
1.3. Quality in the Manufacturing Process 1-2
1.4. Certificates 1-3
2. X-Ray Safety 2-1
2.1. The X-ray Tube 2-1
2.2. Caution and Warning Labels 2-1
2.3. Information Labels 2-2
2.4. Audible Alerts 2-2
2.5. Visual Indicators 2-3
2.6. X-Ray interlock Switches 2-4
2.7. Portaspec Shielding 2-5
2.8. Personal Dosimetry and Area-Monitoring 2-6
2.9. Portaspec Radiation Leakage Test or Survey 2.6
2.10. Portaspec Service 2-7
3. Portaspec Initial Setup 3-1
3.1. Power Requirements 3-1
3.2. Portaspec Location and Operating Environment 3-1
3.3. Model 2501XBT Portaspec Assembly 3-2
3.4. Power Down and Disassembly 3-3
3.5. Transporting 3-3
4. Principle of Operation 4-1
5. Operating the Portaspec 5-1
5.1. The Operator 5-1
5.2. The Operating Environment 5-1
5.3. Operators Tutorial 5-2
5.4. Sample Preparation and Presentation 5-4
5.5. Qualitative and Quantitative Analysis 5-5
5.6. Water Cooling 5-6
6. Component Description 6-1
6.1. Model 2501XBT Portaspec Front View 6-1
6.2. Model 2501XBT Portaspec Rear View 6-2
6.3. Model 2501XBT Portaspec Rear Panel Internal View 6-3
6.4. Model 2501XBT Portaspec Interior View 6-4
6.5. Model 2501XBT Portaspec X-Ray Optical Path 6-5

TABLE OF CONTENTS
7. Accessory Description and Assembly 7-1
7.1. Catalog No. 2522X Coolant Circulator 7-1
7.2. Filling the Coolant Circulator 7-1
7.3. Coolant Circulator Technical Data 7-1
7.4. Constant Output Voltage Regulator 7-2
8. Maintenance and Troubleshooting 8-1
8.1. Troubleshooting Chart 8-2
8.2. Element Stop Adjustment Model 2501XBT 8-2
8.3. Portaspec Preventative Maintenance Schedule 8-4
8.4. Recommended Spare Parts 8.5
9. Technical Data 9-1
9.1 Model 2501XBT Technical Data 9-2
Appendix Two Theta Tables
Periodic Chart
Interference Chart
Counting Statistics
Model 2501XBT Schematic Diagram
Warranty

IMPORTANT NOTICES
i
Before operating the Portaspec, there are many operating procedures specified in
this manual that must be followed without deviation, to insure safe and trouble free
operation.
Carelessness in the application of these procedures can result in unsatisfactory
operation of the equipment, and possible inadvertent exposure to x-radiation.
Consequently, it is urged that the following material be given a careful reading by all
concerned with the operation and maintenance of the equipment.
1. X-RAY MONITORING & REPORTS
X-ray equipment can be dangerous to both the operator and persons in the
immediate vicinity, unless safety precautions are strictly observed.
It is strongly recommended and in some states mandatory, that the operator wear a
radiation film badge to record radiation exposure. This film badge may be obtained
for a minimal charge from many sources, one of which is listed below:
LANDAUER, INC.
2 Science Road
Glenwood, Illinois 60425-1586
Telephone: [phone]
2. PORTASPECMANUFACTURER’S NOTICE
As a manufacturer of x-ray producing apparatus, we have attempted to provide all
the best technology and safeguards to protect the operator and surrounding persons.
There are governmental laws pertaining to the use of this equipment. Before it is
used in your facility, communicate with your State, Provincial or Federal Division of
Occupational Health, or similar agency, to determine what rules and regulations with
regard to the use, operation and registration of this apparatus may be applicable. In
addition, you should comply with all governmental regulations pertaining to this
apparatus. We warrant this instrument for all purposes for which it was intended
only. We will not be responsible for any injury or damage caused by improper or
negligent use or operation of this instrument, or for the violation by the owner or
operator of this instrument, of any regulations or laws pertaining to this type of
apparatus.
3. MEDICAL NOTICE
Persons undergoing medical diagnostic tests that involve consumption or injection of
radioactive dyes, normally given for stress tests or cardiac catheterization tests,
should not be in the immediate area of the Portaspec while in operation. To do so,
could cause the Portaspec readings to be elevated and inaccurate until the radiation
dye is depleted in approximately 3 to 4 days.

1. INTRODUCTION AND DESCRIPTION
1-1
1.1. The Model 2501 X Series Portaspec®is a bench top, wavelength dispersive,
x-ray fluorescence analyzer that performs nondestructive elemental analysis on a
variety of sample types. The 2501 X Series version of the familiar Model 2501
Portaspec is now computer controlled. The standard operating interface utilizes a
Windows®based touch-screen notebook computer.
The control software is simple and intuitive in function and offers a continuous record of
analysis. It has a calibration mode that allows for a linear or quadratic fit for an almost
unlimited number of standards. It also includes a specialized analysis mode designed
to measure pretreatments on metal substrates.
The Portaspec is suitable to analyze from very small specimens to a maximum
specimen of 2-9/16 inches in diameter by 1 inch thick. The Portaspec has an x-ray
tube which focuses a beam diameter of 0.75 inches on to the specimen under analysis,
yielding superior statistical data compared to instruments using a micro spot x-ray tube.
This is notably important when analyzing pretreatments on galvanized steel substrates.
The new controller circuit board interprets and executes commands from the computer
to turn x-rays on and off, set x-ray tube current and read counts on the digital scaler.
An mA stabilizer board provides constant current to the x-ray tube. Also new to the
2501 X Series Portaspec, is a lightweight, high frequency, constant potential high
voltage power supply, providing a high level of instrument stability at 10, 20 or 30 kV
output, and from 0 to 5mA.
The Portaspec can be configured to a number of input voltages, 50 or 60 hertz and
features a modular component design.
1.2. The Model 2501XBT Portaspec®comes configured with a goniometer capable
of analyzing Kαelemental lines whose range include element 22 Ti to 47 Ag and Lα
lines from 56 Ba to 92 U.
The Two-Position Sample
Holder enables you to load or
unload one sample while
analyzing another. The
samples are not loaded over
the x-ray port, keeping sample
contamination out of the x-ray
path. The sample holder can
accepts samples up to 2-9/16
inches in diameter by 1 inch
thick.
The Portaspec is useful for
analyzing powders, liquids,
solids and thin films, as well
as coating weight and thickness
analysis.
Model 2501XBT
Image 1-1

1. INTRODUCTION AND DESCRIPTION
1-2
No additional options are needed to begin analyzing, as the computer and water
circulator are standard equipment.
1.3. Quality in the Manufacturing Process
Cianflone Scientific has categorized all Portaspec components received, manufactured
and assembled into five categories:
1. Major components, such as the x-ray tube, detector tube, scaler, crystal,
controller circuit board, mA control circuit board and x-ray high voltage power
supply are all verified as being compliant to our specifications as well as each
manufacturer’s specifications prior to adding them to the general inventory.
2. Cabinet components are inspected and finished according to drawings.
3. Electrical components, such as wire, switches, transformers thermocouples and
motors are inspected and verified to function as described and requested.
4. Mechanical components, such as gears, shafting, housings, fasteners and
general machined parts are inspected to verify dimension, finish and material.
5. Assembled components, such as x-ray tube housing assemblies, goniometer
assemblies, channel plate assemblies, wiring assemblies and vacuum chamber
assemblies are all assembled from pre-inspected components and inspected to
ensure that they perform their intended function prior to final assembly.
At final assembly, the Portaspec goes through a 30-point checklist that is designed to
document radiation safety, assembly sequence and machine performance at specific
intervals. This document also includes a computer checklist, accessory checklist as
well a shipping checklist.
During final assembly, the Portaspec is made to function as the end user intends to use
it. If supplied with standards and/or test specimens, calibration files are created and
the test specimens are analyzed. Otherwise, standard in-house specimens are used.
Finally, using a certified reference material, a series of 25 readings is collected on the
finished Portaspec on the element to be analyzed by the end user. Readings are
collected one after another without repositioning the standard or turning off x-rays. The
means test compares the standard deviation for the readings collected to an expected
standard deviation. Additionally, a peak element count intensity is collected and
compared to a background intensity of another standard. Cianflone Scientific has
developed a historic relationship in ratio at specified peak and background angles.
1.4. Certificates
A “Certificate of Instrument Calibration” is supplied with the Portaspec and is valid for
12 –15 months.
Cianflone Scientific also conducts a radiation survey on the Portaspec and the
Portaspec must comply with all radiation survey specifications. A Radiation certificate
of compliance is also provided.
A certified reference material is included with the accessories in your shipment.
Readings were collected on this material after the Portaspec was certified to conform
to Cianflone Scientific standards. This CRM can be used to determine the current
capability of the Portaspec as compared to that when it was originally certified. A
Certificate of Analysis is included with the certified reference material.

2. X-RAY SAFETY
2-1
The Portaspec is an analytical instrument that produces x-rays when fully energized.
It is a wavelength dispersive x-ray spectrograph and is typically used to analyze
material composition and coating thickness.
X-rays are not energized with the power switch, as there are a number of safety
interlock switches that must be satisfied in order to generate x-rays. The x-rays
produced will not contaminate specimens to be analyzed or parts of the instrument
that fall in the path of the generated x-rays. There is no residual radiation once the
instrument is powered off.
Efforts have been made to eliminate the risk for an operator to receive a dose of
radiation from the Portaspec through redundant safety interlocks, interlocking
mechanical surfaces and protective shielding. The end user’s facilities radiation
officer must select persons for operating the Portaspec that have been trained and
are familiar with the hazards of radiation and respect them. Fundamentals of
radiation safety should be taught and practiced with all operators.
IMPORTANT!
No attempt should be made to circumvent or otherwise intentionally render an
x-ray interlock inactive.
2.1. The X-ray Tube
The x-ray tube is an end window type that produces a cone of radiation
perpendicular to the target. The target material is most often made from tungsten or
rhodium. The maximum intensity of the x-rays generated is 30kV at 5 milliamperes.
The primary radiation produced passes through a thin beryllium window and is
furthermore focused through a “beam limiting device”, in order to limit the x-ray
exposure to only the specimen and not the surrounding area.
The x-ray tube is permanently aligned to focus on to the specimen to be analyzed
and should never need further adjustment.
2.2. Caution and Warning Labels
2.2.1 Warning Label
A precautionary statement on the front of the Portaspec
states:
Warning: This x-ray equipment may be dangerous to
persons or property unless established safe exposure
factors are observed. Sold to or to be used under the
direction of a qualified supervisor.
Model 2501XBT
Image 1-1
Warning Label
Image 2-1

2. X-RAY SAFETY
2-2
Fuse Identification Label
Image 2-4
2.2.2 Caution Radiation.
A “tri-foil” radiation label is affixed to the
front of the Portaspec that identifies it as
being an instrument that produces x-rays
The color of the lettering and logo are magenta
with a bright yellow background. This label is
clearly visible and discernable from a distance
of 5 feet.
2.3. Information Labels
2.3.1 Serial Number Label. A serial
number label is affixed to the rear panel of
the Portaspec. It displays the full name
and address of Cianflone Scientific, Made
In U.S. A. declaration, Portaspec model
number, date of manufacture, serial
number, and input voltage requirements.
2.3.2 Internal Fuse Label. A label affixed
to the rear panel of the Portaspec identifies
the location and function of all internal fuses.
Additionally, the amperage value and whether
it is a fast or slow blow fuse is listed.
2.4. Audible Alerts
2.4.1 Test Alert. Each time the Portaspec is powered on, the internal firmware
goes through a systems test. Included in this test is an x-ray on lamp test. If the
condition of the lamp is good, you should notice a brief flash of the x-ray on lamp
Fuse Identification Label
Image 2-4
Caution Radiation Label
Image 2-2
Serial Number Label
Image 2-3

2. X-RAY SAFETY
2-3
followed by a single audible beep. If there is a failure in the lamp, a continued
beeping will be audible and the Portaspec will be inoperative until the lamp is
replaced. The replacement lamp is a 12PSB. X-rays can not be generated when the
lamp is burnt out or missing.
2.4.2 X-ray On Alert. Simultaneous to the red x-ray on lamp illuminating,
identifying that x-rays have been energized, a single beep will be audible.
2.5. Visual Indicators.
2.5.1 Fail Safe X-Ray on Warning Light
The “fail-safe” x-ray on warning light illuminates red when the Portaspec is
generating x-rays. If the lamp fails or is removed from its socket, the Portaspec
will no longer be able to generate x-rays.
2.5.2 Portaspec Control Software X-Ray On Indicator and Timer Display Form
In addition to the visual and audible x-ray on alerts on
the Portaspec, the Portaspec Control Software pops
up and displays the condition of x-rays, when x-rays
are activated.
The indicator form declares that x-rays are on and
displays the x-ray intensity in kV and mA.
The duration for x-rays to be energized is displayed
by the progress bar and is a function of the number
of Readings per Sample times the count time in
seconds. In the example in Image 2-5, the duration
for x-rays to be on is 90 seconds.
2.6 X-ray Interlock Switches
The Portaspec can not be operated, nor can x-rays
be generated, without the use of a computer with the
Portaspec Control and Analysis program installed.
Fundamental to the Portaspec, are two separate x-ray interlock circuits. All switches
in both circuits are wired in series, making it impossible to generate x-rays with a
single switch open or inoperative.
The control program has the ability to read the status of the interlock circuits and
x-ray on light and will not allow for x-rays to be generated with an interlock switch
open. Additionally, the controller circuit board installed in the Portaspec requires
a sequential protocol of two commands from the control software, in order to turn
on x-rays.
If, when operating the Portaspec, x-rays are interrupted by turning the X-Ray On key
to the “Off” position or by any other method of opening an interlock switch, x-rays will
not toggle back on when the key is turned to the “On” position or, if the interlock fault
is corrected. This safety feature diminishes the inadvertent activation of x-rays.
Software X-Ray On Indicator
Image 2-5

2. X-RAY SAFETY
2-4
2.6.1 X-Ray On Interlock Key Switch.
Part of interlock circuit number 1, the key can only be removed from the switch in the
“Off” position. It is not possible to lock x-rays on. This switch is common to all
Portaspec models.
2.6.2 Rear Panel Safety Interlock Switch.
This switch is in series with the key switch in interlock circuit number 1. It will not
allow x-rays to be generated without the rear panel properly installed. This switch is
common to all Portaspec models.
Model 2501XBT
Image 1-1
X-Ray On Key Switch
Image 2-6
Rear Panel open
Image 2-7
Rear Panel
Interlock Switches

2. X-RAY SAFETY
2-5
Model 2501XBT
Two-Position Sample Holder
Image 2-8
Shifting to Position 1
Analyzing Position 1
Load/Unload 2
Analyzing Position 2
Load/Unload 1
2.6.3 Model 2501XBT Two-Position Sample Holder Interlock Switches
The Two-Position Sample Holder is mounted on top of the Portaspec cabinet.
Mounted on it are the x-ray on light and power light. Its unique design allows the
operator to load or unload a specimen in one position while analyzing in the second.
X-rays can only be generated when two interlock switches sense the final position of
the sample holder slide. When the slide is moved as little as 0.020” from the load
final position, the interlock switches open. Sample Holder interlock switches are part
of interlock circuit number 2. Additionally, the slide ends interlock mechanically
(0.250”) with the sample holder body, further ensuring that x-rays can not escape.
2.7 Portaspec Shielding
The Portaspec has a fixed x-ray output of 10, 20 or 30 kV at 5 mA. This kV
adjustment can only be changed inside of the HV supply and cannot be changed in
software.
Tests have been performed on the x-ray tube output at 30 kV, 5mA. It was found
that using 1/8 inch of cold rolled steel will attenuate the primary x-ray beam to a point
that it is just detectable above background. This test was carried out with the 1/8
inch and ¼ inch cold rolled steel situated at specimen surface plane. The ¼ inch
cold rolled steel fully attenuating the generated x-rays to the background level.
Therefore, shielding of the primary x-ray beam is made from ¼ inch cold rolled or
stainless steel when the x-rays generated are fixed to 30 kV. For Portaspecs fixed to
10 or 20 kV, a minimum of 3/16 inch cold rolled or stainless steel is used.
The Portaspec is made in such a way that there is no shielding accessible to the
operator that can be removed or altered. All joined components that are accessible
to or visible to the operator, have an interlocking machined surface on at least one
surface in order to prevent x-rays from traveling around components.
The primary x-ray beam is focused on to the specimen under analysis with
secondary x-ray scatter shields permanently installed to the x-ray tube housing.

2. X-RAY SAFETY
2-6
The cabinet of the Portaspec is made from 0.040 inch thick steel, historically capable
of containing all Portaspec 30 kV secondary or scattered x-rays. Additionally, lead
tape is applied to internal areas of the Portaspec, particularly around the x-ray tube,
to further contain x-rays.
2.8 Personal Dosimetry and Area-Monitoring
Installation and operation of the Portaspec may require the use of a personal
dosimetry device as well as an area-monitoring device. It is the responsibility
of the Portaspec supervisor to check with local and state or provincial and federal
governing bodies to confirm the use of these devices, if applicable. Portaspec and
area x-ray surveys should be carried out according to your governing body’s
requirements.
2.9 Portaspec Radiation Leakage Test or Radiation Survey
Upon completion of manufacture of the Portaspec and before delivery to the client,
Cianflone Scientific will conduct a radiation leakage test on the Portaspec. This
radiation leakage test performed shall comply to the following specifications:
The Portaspec, when operated at any of its designated x-ray tube voltage and x-ray
tube current specifications, shall function in such a way that the x-radiation emitted
does not exceed 0.5 milliroentgen (4.38 microgray air kerma) in one hour at a
distance of 5 cm from
a. any accessible external surfaces of the x-ray tube housing, beam limiting
device, protective shielding or accessory;
b. any radiation aperture, shutter or filter slot that is in the closed position; and
c. any point on the housing of the high-voltage generator.
When compared to other analytical x-ray instruments on the market, the 30 kV at 0
to 5 mA x-rays that the Portaspec generates are low in energy. The primary cone
of radiation that is focused on to the specimen under analysis is always backed and
surrounded with ¼ inch of cold rolled steel on XBT models, generating 30 kV. A
minimum of 3/16 inch of cold rolled steel or stainless steel backs and surrounds
the specimen under analysis on XLE models that generate up to 20 kV. The
combination of material thickness, fixed shielding, interlocking machined surfaces
and our component quality standards result in Portaspec radiation exposure readings
at the background level.
Areas of focus when performing a radiation leakage test of the Portaspec are:
1. Where two components meet to form a radiation seal.
2. Near or around the area where the primary x-rays are generated.
3. On top of the Sample Holder where the primary beam is focused.
4. Areas on the Sample Holder where movement takes place in order
to access the specimen.
5. In areas that are ventilated to the outside of the Portaspec. Ventilated
areas always use offset and shielded pathways.
The primary instruments used to survey radiation on the Portaspec, at Cianflone
Scientific’s manufacturing site, have internal check sources and are annually
calibrated and certified.

2. X-RAY SAFETY
2-7
1. Ludlum Measurements Inc. Model 2 Geiger Counter, Serial No. 072929
Probe Model EWGM.
2. Ludlum Measurements Inc. Model 3 Geiger Counter, Serial No. 321306
Probe Model EWGM.
Cianflone Scientific also conducts a radiation survey on the Portaspec and the
Portaspec must comply with all radiation survey specifications. A Radiation
certificate of compliance is also provided.
2.10 Portaspec Service
It is recommend that only factory certified technicians provide annual maintenance
and required service to the Model 2501 X Series Portaspec. Internal to the
Portaspec are dangerous high voltages that could be harmful to inexperienced
technicians.

3. PORTASPEC INITIAL SETUP
3-1
The Model 2501XBT Portaspec is typically shipped in two cartons strapped to a
plastic pallet. One carton contains the Portaspec. The second carton contains the
Catalog 2522X Water Circulator, computer and all support accessories.
NOTE: ALL COMPONENTS SHOULD BE INSPECTED FOR POSSIBLE
TRANSIT DAMAGE UPON OPENING THE CARTONS. IF APPARENT
DEFECTS OR DAMAGE EXISTS, IMMEDIATELY NOTIFY THE CARRIER
AND THE DEALER THROUGH WHOM THE UNIT WAS PURCHASED.
3.1. Power Requirements
The Model 2501 X Series Portaspec operates at 117VAC, 50 or 60 hertz. Its power
source should be dedicated to the Portaspec only and not other instruments or
accessories that may draw heavy current.
The acceptable voltage input range is from 110 to 124 VAC. A constant output
voltage regulator is mandatory on installations where the input voltage is outside of
this range. It should be noted that a constant output regulator can not regulate
differences in line frequency. The line frequency should be monitored prior to
Portaspec installation.
The power receptacle must be grounded with the polarity properly wired. Consult a
qualified electrical technician to confirm this wiring. An open ground or reverse
polarity will render the Portaspec inoperative. It is not recommended to use ground
adapters or extension cords for your permanent installation.
All installations where the standard line voltage is other than 117 VAC will require a
constant voltage regulator. Standard to all international orders is this constant
voltage output regulator. This regulator is sized for the Portaspec only and not
accessories, such as the coolant circulator.
3.2. Portaspec Location and Operating Environment
Although the Portaspec can be placed in a factory environment if necessary, you
would be better served by placing it into a laboratory environment where the ambient
temperature and humidity may be more controlled and suitable for precision analysis.
The Portaspec does not have an internal fan that draws air from the outside.
However, it does utilize an internal circulating fan to equalize internal temperatures.
This limits the infiltration of humidity, hazardous dust and environmental
contaminants to the Portaspec. When placed in a setting where the atmosphere is
not controlled, e.g. high humidity, the use of an exterior fan blowing on to the
Portaspec is not recommended, as this practice could force contaminants or humidity
inside of the cabinet.
When it is not possible to situate the Portaspec in a laboratory environment, some
users choose to build a small, environmentally controlled room on the factory floor, in
which to place the Portaspec.
Once a proper site is chosen, the Portaspec can be assembled. Following is the
recommended sequence of assembly.

3. PORTASPEC INITIAL SETUP
3-2
3.3. Model 2501XBT Portaspec Assembly
1. Connect the water circulator hoses and fill the circulator. Refer to Section 7-1
for detailed instructions on the Model 2522X Coolant Circulator.
2. Plug the water circulator into the top receptacle in the back of the Portaspec.
3. With the power switch in the Off position, plug the Portaspec power cord into
the Portaspec and its dedicated power source or the constant output power
supply, if supplied. Do not turn on power yet!
Now make the computer connections. The touch-screen computer should be placed
on top of the Portaspec, next to the Sample Holder. Refer to the image below,
keeping in mind that the image of the computer and your actual computer may differ.
1. First, connect the computer power cord to the computer and turn the
computer on.
2. Wait for Windows®to completely boot up and insert the USB cable into the
USB port.
3. For added security, connect the keyed computer security lock if provided.
4. Now press the Power On rocker switch. You should hear a single beep and
a flicker from the x-ray on light, indicating a proper power up.
5. Run the Portaspec Analysis and Control software. In an effort to avoid
redundant instructions, refer to the “Setup Guide” and the “Portaspec X
Series Software Instruction” manual for detailed instructions on the software.
Touch-Screen Computer Setup
Image 3-1
Security Lock
(certain Computer Models only)
USB Connector
Power Connector

3. PORTASPEC INITIAL SETUP
3-3
3.4. Power Down and Disassembly
If the Portaspec is to be disassembled for any reason, the following sequence should
be followed.
1. Turn off x-rays and remove the key from x-ray on key switch.
2. Exit the Portaspec Control Program
3. Turn the computer off.
4. Turn the Portaspec off.
5. Disconnect power cords from their power sources.
6. Disconnect Vacuum and water hoses.
3.5. Transporting
When transporting the Portaspec, especially into areas where the temperature is
below the freezing point, it is necessary to first remove the water from the Portaspec
water lines. Residual water can be forced out with compressed air. If water is
allowed to remain in the lines, it could leak out during transit and contaminate or ruin
electrical components. Beyond that, during cold weather, freezing of the retained
water could cause severe damage to the x-ray tube housing and possibly the x-ray
tube.
The x-ray tube in the Portaspec has a glass envelope. A severe shock during
shipping could crack or break the envelope resulting in a need for an expensive
replacement. Good judgment in selecting proper packing material and carrier is
important.
The Portaspec was shipped from the factory in a carton with sufficient packing to
withstand a reasonable amount of mishandling. If possible, it is desirable to save the
shipping cartons and pallet for future transporting of the Portaspec. However, if the
carton was not retained, a carton made from double wall cardboard with a minimum
burst test of 350 psi and gross weight of 120 lbs. would safely transport the
Power On Power Off
Power Input
Power Inlet Module
Image 3-2

3. PORTASPEC INITIAL SETUP
3-4
Portaspec. The carton should be large enough to allow a minimum of 3 to 4 inches
of insulating packing material all around the Portaspec. Optional accessories should
be disconnected and packed separately in another carton. The Portaspec should be
sealed in plastic to eliminate loose packing material from entering electrical
connections and the x-ray port on the Portaspec.
We have found through experience that strapping the cartons on a pallet provides
the maximum protection for the Portaspec. Additionally, retail shipping companies
do a very good job in preparing the Portaspec for transporting.
3.5.1 Shipping Cases
Cianflone Scientific offers a premium Portaspec case for shipping or storing the
Portaspec. If you plan on sending the Portaspec back to Cianflone Scientific for its
annual certification, this case will protect it from possible transit damage.
The Portaspec case is designed to safely transport the Portaspec and Notebook
Computer for all Portaspec models.
Key Benefits
Strength - rotationally molded from polyethylene resins.
Rounded corners 15%-20% thicker - where strength is needed.
Molded gasket parting line - seal out dirt and humidity.
Lightweight & rugged.
Designed for stacking.

4. PRINCIPLE OF OPERATION
4-1
Source
Collimator
X-Ray Tube
Specimen
Crystal
Detector
Collimator
Detector
Radiation Path
Image 4-1
The x-ray tube directs a beam of primary radiation onto a sample of the material
under analysis. The primary radiation causes the sample to emit a secondary
fluorescence radiation that contains a characteristic wavelength of each element
present in the sample. The characteristic line of each element represents a
wavelength, which varies in a regular fashion from one element to another. The
characteristic wavelengths decrease as the atomic number of the element increases.
The characteristic radiation from all of the elements present in the sample is directed
through the source or divergent collimator onto a large, single crystal. The
collimator, for the most part, eliminates divergence of the radiation so that a parallel
beam of radiation arrives at the crystal and detector. The crystal acts as a diffraction
grating, which separates the various wavelengths emitted by the elements in the
sample. This reflected radiation passes through a receiving or detector collimator
located in front of a gas-filled, sealed proportional detector.
The detector converts x-ray
photons into electrical pulses,
which are then amplified, sent
to the scaler and digital
display. The emitted long
wavelength radiation, such as
that emitted from Ti, V and
Cr, are dispersed at high
goniometer angles and short
wavelength radiation, such as
that emitted from Mo, Nb and
Zr, are dispersed at lower
goniometer angles.
By scanning through the
entire angular range with the
detector, the presence of
each element in the sample
can be detected by
determining the presence of
radiation at their
corresponding angular position.
The intensity of each wavelength is, with suitable corrections, proportional to the
amount of the corresponding element in the sample. Therefore, the intensity of
radiation at each element setting, gives an indication of: 1.) Whether or not the
element appears in the sample; 2.) How much of the element is present in the
sample.

5. OPERATING THE PORTASPEC
5-1
5.1. The Operator
A precautionary statement is printed on the front of the Portaspec Power Supply that
states:
This x-ray equipment may be dangerous to persons or
property unless established safe exposure factors are
observed. Sold to or to be used under the direction of a
qualified supervisor.
Efforts have been made to make it impossible, through redundant safety interlocks,
interlocking mechanical surfaces and protective shielding, for an operator to receive
a dose of radiation from the Portaspec. The end user’s facilities radiation officer
must select persons for operating the Portaspec that have been trained and are
familiar with the hazards of radiation. Fundamentals of radiation safety should be
taught and practiced with all operators.
Once you have complied with all radiation regulatory bodies, operators can be
trained in the use of the Portaspec. Should no one have previous Portaspec or
spectrographic experience, Cianflone Scientific offers at no charge to the new user
of a Portaspec, a one-day training program at its manufacturing facility in Pittsburgh,
Pennsylvania U.S.A. All operators should have this manual available to them and be
familiar with the safety aspects contained therein.
5.2. The Operating Environment
The ideal operating environment for the Portaspec is that which is comfortable to
most people. However, the Portaspec is made to operate under the following
conditions:
Temperature 40to 90F (5to 32C)
Humidity 5% to 90% Relative Humidity, Noncondensing
The Portaspec is often placed in hostile environments and is subject to harsh
handling. Therefore, some considerations should be followed when the Portaspec
is put into these situations:
a. If the Portaspec is made to operate continuously in an area when the ambient
temperature exceeds 90F (32C), additional cooling should be provided to
prevent long-term heat damage to electrical components.
NOTE: For applications where the Portaspec is made to operate continuously,
ambient Portaspec cooling is a requirement.
b. Avoid operating the Portaspec in areas where the relative humidity is in
excess of 90%, noncondensing.
c. Always avoid operating the Portaspec in standing water or wet areas.
d. If the Portaspec is to be carried from site to site on a regular basis,
consideration must be made as to the means of transporting the unit. Keep
in mind that the Portaspec is subject to crystal misalignment and x-ray tube
damage if handled improperly.