Compact X-ray fluorescence spectrometer for real-time wear metal analysis of lubrucating oils

摘要

A compact X-ray fluorescence spectrometer system dedicated to in- line, real-time analysis of wear metal particles in a lubricant used in a lubricating system that comprises a sample chamber, an X-ray source assembly, and an X-ray detector assembly. The sample chamber is substantially composed of a non-metallic material and has a cylindrical shape. The sample chamber is adapted for in-line connection to the lubrication system of the machine such that the sample chamber provides a passageway through which the lubricant flows. The sample chamber has an X- ray transparent window formed therein that allows the passage of X- rays so that the presence of wear metal particles can be detected in the lubricant. A high intensity, relatively small spot incident X-ray source assembly is configured to provide a source of X-rays directed toward the sample chamber such that said X-rays pass through the window in the sample chamber and contact the lubricant flowing therethrough. The X-ray source assembly may comprise either an electron-beam excited X-ray tube associated with a collimating/focusing assembly or, alternatively, an X- ray laser source. The X-ray detector assembly is configured to detect the X-rays emitted from the lubricant flowing through the sample chamber. The X-ray detector assembly generates a signal reflecting the X-rays emitted by the lubricant and comprises a collimating/focusing assembly capable of wide angle collection of the X-rays emitted from the lubricant flowing though the sample chamber and a low-noise X-ray detector. The system also includes a computer system and associated software for processing the signal in order to determine the presence and amount of wear metal particles in said lubricant.