Compact high performance XFS instrument for on-line real-time wear-metal analysis of lubricating oils

摘要

The principle of a conceptually new, compact X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy instrument for on-line (in-situ), real-time wear-metal analysis of lubricating oils is the subject of this article by Irma Nelson of Advanced Technology Materials Research, Murray, Utah, USA. The instrument consists of a cylindrical sample chamber coaxially inserted in-line with the main oil conduit; a high intensity, small spot X-ray source assembly; a high sensitivity assembly for wide-angle collection and detection of the emitted fluorescent X-rays; and a movable calibration sample. It can be applied to virtually any mechanism or machinery which is lubricated, such as a car, aircraft or spacecraft, and its use optimises machinery maintenance programmes, and minimises the risk of catastrophic failure.