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Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I change my fan filter?
While there is no set time, please wash or replace your filter if it becomes noticeably dirty. This dirt can cause less air to flow into the unit and the tube may become too hot.
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What are 2622/7039 modes, and which mode should I use?
2622/7039 refers to measurement mode corresponding to sulfur methods ASTM D2622 or ASTM D7039. For ISO 20884 compliance, use 7039 mode. Main differences between the modes include the use of a background measurement (extended measurement time) and duplicate determinations required for ASTM D2622. For more information on methods see www.astm.org or www.iso.org.
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Do I need to vent my samples?
For MWDXRF analyzers such as Sindie, Clora, Signal, and Phoebe it is recommended to vent all samples, including non-volatile samples. Venting on Petra analyzers is not needed but allowed if your standard operating procedure calls for it. If venting Petra samples, make sure to vent cup in 12 o’clock position (not in center) to prevent leaking samples.
What does 'venting' mean?
When using the standard XRF sample cups, the proper procedure is to “vent” the sample. This means to poke a hole on the back of the cup, allowing any vapors to leave the sample cup. Trapped vapors can cause bowing in the sample film, which can lead to irregular results.
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How do I order consumables?
You can place your order online through our website, or you can send your order with a PO attached (and any questions about your order) to sales@xos.com.
Contact support@xos.com if you have questions about which parts are right for your analyzer.
How do I order replacement parts?
A spare primary window and vacuum pump rebuild kit are important to have on hand in case of vacuum faults. If you know which part you need, you can place your order online through our website. If you need assistance, contact XOS Technical Support at support@xos.com to get the version that is right for you.
Do you offer extended warranties?
Extended warranties are offered for new units. Please email support@xos.com for more information.
For U.S. customers only.
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How do I schedule a preventative maintenance visit?
If you are a customer in the U.S., please contact support@xos.com to schedule your visit.
If you are located outside of the U.S., please contact your local distributor for support. To find a distributor in your area, please visit Distributor Map XOS
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How often should I get preventative maintenance done?
Preventative maintenance should be done annually to keep the unit in its best working condition. To schedule your visit, please contact support@xos.com or reach out to your local distributor.
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What is the difference between a chemplex cup and an accucell?
Standard XRF cups are composed of three parts: the sample cup, the sample film, and a retainer ring. The sample is placed in the cup and then the film is placed on top with the retainer ring being pushed down to hold it in place.
Accucells are essentially smaller, pre-assembled XRF cups. The sample is inserted through a small hole on top of the cup. These do not need to be vented.
How do I remove & reseat the sample basket in Petra Autosampler?
To remove the sample basket, lift up the side cover (NOTE: this cannot be done during a measurement). Once the side cover has been removed, pull the metal pin that is protruding from the sample chamber and turn it counter-clockwise 90°. The sample basket can now be removed by pulling it out from the measurement chamber.
To re-insert the sample basket, place it back in the measurement chamber. Be sure the basket is fitted properly as improper basket placement can result in poor data quality. At the far end of the basket, there should be a ¼ inch of space between where the basket ends and the back of the sample chamber ends; at the front end of the basket, the sample basket should be at an even angle, flush against the surface. Once the sample basket is fitted tightly, turn the metal pin clockwise 90° until it clicks back into place. For a detailed walkthrough and images on removing and reseating the sample basket, refer to the Sample Basket Guide Quick Start Card shipped with your Petra Autosampler.
It is recommended that users run a check sample after they reseat the sample basket.
For step-by-step instructions, please visit the Customer Portal
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Can I reuse a sample cup?
No, reusing sample cups and film causes contamination issues that will lead to incorrect results.
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What do I do if my instrument is not working properly?
If you are experiencing issues with your PPM readings, clean the sample area of the unit using high grade IPA and change the secondary window film, then try running the sample in a new sample cup and film. If the problem persists, please contact XOS Technical Support at support@xos.com. For faster support, please attach clear picture of the error on your screen and attach it to your email.
For other issues please contact XOS Technical Support and if it is a fault please write down the exact wording on the screen. Let the Support member know of any other issues that you may be experiencing.
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Do I need to pair the sample basket with the unit?
Yes - each sample basket is designed to a specific thickness to produce optimal counts for your unit. If you have more than one unit at your facility, it is extremely important that you do not swap the baskets. The serial number of the unit that the basket is paired with will be engraved on the top or side of basket.
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What type of film do I need?
Different models require different film. Check your instrument manual to confirm which film you should be using on the sample basket and samples.
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What is done during a preventative maintenance visit?
During a preventative maintenance visit, the following is performed:
- Software upgraded (as available and upon request)
- Onsite operator training
- Full factory calibration
- Radiation survey
- Vacuum pump rebuild (for analyzers with the vacuum pump)
- Primary window replacement (for analyzers with a primary window)
- Fan filter replacement
- Cleaning of analyzer
- Evaluation of unit, feedback to user if potential future issues are noted at the time of the visit
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Is purchasing a PM worth it?
Absolutely! Preventive maintenance helps you proactively address wear and tear issues to minimize future downtime.
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Why can't I do preventative maintenance myself?
While customers can perform some aspects of the PM themselves, by purchasing a PM service, they are receiving the benefit of having an experienced XOS technician perform the service, further minimizing potential issues that often result from the ‘do it yourself’ scenarios and lead to additional downtime and repair costs.
XOS service technicians also have access to calibrated equipment to support radiation survey and vacuum system health that is not commonly available. XOS service personnel are certified in all 50 states to perform radiation survey and support the XOS products.
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How long do I need to run a sample for?
Sample measurement time varies depending on the method you are using. For more information, contact XOS Technical Support at support@xos.com.
Should I turn my analyzer off or use standby mode when not in use?
If you plan to run your analyzer daily, please keep it on at all times.
If you plan to run it a few times a week, please use the standby feature.
If the instrument will be off for a prolonged period oftime, please contact XOS Technical Support at support@xos.com to discuss what is best for your situation.
How much radiation am I being exposed to?
Our products conform to all applicable Standards under 21 C.F.R. Chapter I, Subchapter J. Each analyzer is delivered with a radiation survey report that summarizes the radiation emission testing performed at the XOS factory before shipment; this ensures that any leakage is well below regulatory limits. Each survey is serial number-specific, displaying the results from a particular instrument’s radiation emission test. You can obtain more copies of this report by contacting XOS at 518-880-1525 or support@xos.com. The analyzer should be surveyed annually by appropriate radiation safety personnel or qualified outside contractor, and operated according to all local, state and federal laws.
What do I do if my product does not work properly?
Please contact XOS Technical Support at support@xos.com and provide fault, serial number and any other information.
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Does your optics suffer from radiation damage?
Not for a lab source. For synchrotron applications, no damage will occur from the incident beam as long as the optic is after monochromators.
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What is the typical lead time?
4-6 weeks for our optics. 6-10 weeks for our X-Beams.
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Can we get a DEMO optic to try out?
No, because the polycapillary optic technology and its benefits have been proven. The performance specs XOS provides in the quotation are based on the results from an XOS proprietary simulation tool and we guarantee those specs.
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Does XOS provide an optic alignment device?
Yes, we offer a custom solution dependent on the X-ray source.
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Can a Polycapillary optic work efficiently with my source?
It depends on the X-ray source characteristics especially the source size. If the source size is too large or the energy is too high the optic won’t provide any benefits.
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What is the largest output beam size for a parallel beam optic?
Currently 20mm, this is energy dependent. (low energy due to large capillary diameter).
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What is the smallest focal spot size you can achieve?
5µm at Rhodium Kα (20keV).
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What is the energy range of the optics?
10eV to 50keV. Most efficient at 5-10keV. Efficiency drops rapidly at higher energies.
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What is the typical transmission efficiency of your optics?
Up to 40%. Depends on energy and optic design.
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Where do I get a radiation survey report?
Please reach out to XOS Technical Support at support@xos.com to receive your copy and include the serial number of your analyzer(s).
Where can I access a manual for my instrument?
All instrument manuals and documentation can be found in the Customer Portal. If you do not have an account, you can request access here
How can I change my password?
To change the password for your portal account, log into the portal, click on the YOUR ACCOUNT dropdown menu, select My Account, and then click on the Edit link to the right of My Sign In Information.
To change the password on your analyzer, please reference the analyzer user manual.
What if I forget my username or password?
Click the LOGIN button on the top menu bar, then the “Forgot your login info?” link.
How do I register for the customer/distributor portal?
To register, click the LOGIN button on the top menu bar and Request Access to either the customer or distributor portal.
What is the customer/distributor portal?
The customer portal (Support Center) allows customers to access user manuals, customer training videos, troubleshooting guides and work instructions.
The distributor portal allows distributors to access distributor training videos and additional troubleshooting guides and work instructions. Distributors also have access to the customer portal.