Micro-trans-SPEC Portable UF6 Verification System

Micro-trans-SPEC Portable UF6 Verification System

Micro-trans-SPECFeatures reinforced structural frame and custom designed tungsten collimator (can be removed if not required), suitable forUF6 verification application.

The UF6 software application is based on the classic concentrator method and is performed on Micro-trans-SPEC, eliminating the need for the inspector to carry an additional computer.

The user interface is similar toMicro-trans-SPEC basic GUI software and uses the same approach to perform tasks such as hardware setup, spectrum storage and display. Additionally, many data entry fields are stored in configuration files, which can be created and edited on a 32-bit Windows 7 or Windows XP computer and then copied to the built-in data processor using Windows Mobile Device Center or Microsoft ActiveSync.

The basic operation of the software is an automated sequential process of the following tasks:

· Collect spectral data

· Store data

· Analyze data

· Send results to file and screen

Program operations are designed so that minimal information is required to collect, store, analyze, and report results.

· UF6 Validation System at ORTEC with Reinforced Structural Frame Micro-trans-SPEC HPGe Portable Spectrometerrun on.

· Integrated instrument with software designed to comply withCurrent procedures for UF6 inspection.

· By combining proven methods withAdvances in HPGe spectral analysis are combined to achieve highly accurate and fast results.

· Solved based onThe spectral interference problem encountered by NaI's system.

· Micro-trans-SPEC hardware can be used in other related applications.

· The working time of a single battery is up to5 hours.

· adopt"Quick-open" battery cover allows for quick battery replacement, reducing downtime.

· New and improved low noise operation, low power consumption cryogenic cooler.

ORTEC Micro-trans-SPEC is a field-ready LN2-free HPGe spectrometer. Micro-trans-SPEC weighs less than 7 kg (excluding additional hardware such as collimators), is small, compact, rugged and suitable for field operations.

The instrument features a long-life Stirling cycle refrigerator and digital electronics. It can be powered from a variety of power sources, including global mains, automotive and other DC sources, meaning it is ideal for security inspections where inspectors can arrive on site with the instrument operational and ready to go.

Built-in battery provides up to5 hours of battery life and easy replacement minimize downtime. Advanced built-in data processing makes it ideal for onboard custom data analysis, and its bright, clear screen makes it easy to read even in bright outdoor conditions.

UF6 verification system
Micro-trans-SPEC features a reinforced structural frame and custom-designed tungsten collimator for UF6 verification applications. (Collimator can be removed if not needed).

The UF6 software application is based on the classic Fengdu measurement method and executes on Micro-trans-SPEC, eliminating the need for the inspector to carry an additional computer.

The user interface is similar toMicro-trans-SPEC basic GUI software and uses the same approach to perform tasks such as hardware setup, spectrum storage and display. Additionally, many data entry fields are stored in configuration files, which can be created and edited on a 32-bit Windows 7 or Windows XP computer and then copied to the built-in data processor using Windows Mobile Device Center or Microsoft ActiveSync.

The basic operation of the software is an automated sequential process of the following tasks:

· Collect spectral data

· Store data

· Analyze data

· Send results to file and screen

Program operations are designed so that minimal information is required to collect, store, analyze, and report results.

Enriched uranium by deformationDetermined by the "classic" infinite thickness method. This method was originally developed for NaI(Tl) detectors, but had issues with potential spectral interference. Due to the use of an HPGe detector, the area of ​​the 186 keV gamma ray peak can be derived using a method that is less susceptible to interference from nearby peaks.

Operational overview
The launch screen provides the inspector with many options. The first option is verification, which is the most straightforward verification measurement after all other system parameters have been set.

Verification mode consists of the following sequential steps:

· Select a project from the project databaseID，

· Enter inspection data for collection and analysis,

· Collect and analyze data,

· Store results into spectrum files and create analysis reports.

The project database is usually loaded before the measurement program of the relevant equipment is started. It is a standard text file that can be used in the Notepad applicationEdit on your PC, then transfer to the built-in data processor using Windows Mobile Device Center or Microsoft ActiveSync. It can contain criteria used to check whether the system is operating correctly.

The second step in the verification process is to enter"Log data". This minimum data set is required for each validation measurement. The count preset field is initialized from a default value, which is the last value used for validation mode acquisition. Wall thickness is also a required value and is entered via the keyboard.

real time results
Once data collection begins, the screen on the right will appear. This screen shows a portion of the spectrum (150 keV to 210 keV), with the ROI marker around the 185.7 keV peak. ROIs are also marked near low and high background ROIs. During acquisition, ROI, count rate, and enrichment results are updated and displayed periodically.

Either Atom% or Wt% is displayed on the screen.

System calibration
Calibration mode is similar to verification mode, but the calibration constants are set according to the expected results defined by the standard. It consists of the following sequential steps:

· Select a project from the project databaseID standard,

· Enter inspection data for collection and analysis,

· Acquire and calibrate from spectra,

· Store calibration constants into a configuration file.

project database
Project database mode allows editing the contents of the project database. This includes modifying, adding, and deleting items in the database. The project database is located atStandard text file (UF6.ISL) in the Program Files\UF6 folder. Inspectors can select existing project IDs to modify or delete. (Please note that an asterisk [*] in the item selection list indicates "standard" settings that can be used to calibrate and verify correct system operation.)

Check data
Check data schema for managementContents of the "Inspection Data" file: Inspector data such as inspector name, country code, equipment name, inspection number and other optional comments. The data files are standard text files that can be edited on the PC before starting a series of measurements and then transferred to the built-in data processor using Windows Mobile Device Center or Microsoft ActiveSync. All data are stored in the "Inspection Data" file (UF6.IDB) in the Program Files\UF6 folder.

settings
Setup mode is used to manage the hardware settings of the instrument, including hardware settings, cooler control, energy calibration,"Health Status" etc., all of which can be selected from the screen.

The energy calibration process is specific toUF6 application. Depending on the requirements of the method, the hardware settings can be adjusted to locate the U-235 peak at 185.7 keV in channel 2476.

Spectrum options allow user to defineLogging options, such as where to save the spectrum and whether to require the user to enter descriptive text when saving the file. "Recall Mode" allows the user to retrieve spectra for closer inspection in a convenient MCA display mode, reminiscent of the MAESTRO MCA display. After the file is transferred via Windows Mobile Device Center or Microsoft ActiveSync, users can use MAESTRO to view the spectrum on their laptop. MCA display mode features log/lin vertical scale, movable cursor and zoom in/out functionality. The cursor position will display the count and energy.

Removable collimator
Removable tungsten collimator designed to absorb light from all directions (except front field)99.999% of gamma rays below 200 keV. This is achieved by tightly coupling the collimator to the cryostat mount (at the rear of the detector), which also eliminates any straight lines of sight to the detector from all angles. This will also reduce background from the back and sides of the unit as well as the front. The front disc has a 50mm aperture. This is the diameter of the detector crystal, so while minimizing the background there is little reduction in the "required" counts. The entire inner surface facing the detector crystal has graded Z (copper/tin) villages to minimize the fluorescence spectrum from tungsten (especially 59keV x-rays).

Summary of hardware specifications

· light weight - 17 lbs (7.7 kg). (No collimator.)

· solid - Housing, display and all interfaces are sealed against moisture and dust. Waterproof spray.

· High sensitivity - 50 mm Ø x 40 mm HPGe detector.

· High stability - Digital electronic equipment.

· bright and clear - VGA display and touch-sensitive operation screen.

· high speedUSB, wireless 802.11, GPS and SD card storage for collected spectra.

· Runs approx. with quick-swap built-in battery5 hours, can also be powered by external battery, car power or line power.

· A generation of miniature, high-efficiency, Stirling cycle refrigerators; featuring lower acoustic noise and vibration levels and longer service life. The detector elements are sealed in a high-reliability, low-loss cryostat.

Brief description of the built-in data processor:

· Display: VGA 640 x 480 TFT, sunlight readable, touch sensitive, can be operated with fingers or stylus.

· Data processor: Marvel PXA320 XScale 806 MHz。

· Memory: 128 MB DDR SDRAM

· Data storage (spectrum, results, etc.): removableSD card and onboard non-volatile 1 MB flash memory, expandable to 2 GB.

· Computer Interface: Connected to LaptopUSB interface.

· Spectral transmission: Windows Mobile Device Center or Microsoft ActiveSync.

· Wi-Fi (802.11) communication software is optional.

For complete hardware and electronics specifications,SeeMicro-trans-SPEC specifications。