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» Protec LPA-1 XRF Lead Paint Analyzer Introduction
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PROTEC Instrument Corporation's
RMD
LPA-1 Lead-Based Paint Analyzer is a state-of-the-art XRF spectrum
analyzing system for measuring lead in paint on any surface. The LPA-1
Analyzer provides fast, accurate measurement of lead content in as
little as 2 to 4 seconds with a 95% confidence level, thereby assuring
the highest level of productivity for an inspector.
The LPA- 1 method
of measurement is based on the spectrometric analysis of lead K-shell
X-ray fluorescence within a controlled depth of interrogation. Various
studies have concluded that K-shell x-ray measurement of lead in paint
is more accurate and the preferred method for XRF analysis. Unlike
L-shell X-rays, K-shell X-rays can easily go through the paint without
being affected by the thickness and the composition of various layers
of paint that can cause false readings. The controlled depth concept
used exclusively in the design of the LPA- 1 restricts the penetration
of the energetic K-shell X-rays into the substrate to 3/8" so
that the system cannot be mislead by the presence of lead pipes or
other objects located deep in a wall.
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The LPA-1
system has gone through satisfactory CRCPD device safety reviews for distribution
under both Specific and General licenses. XRF Performance Characteristic
Sheet (PCS) is available for download. |
The LPA-1 Advantages
- K-Shell XRF has no
L-Shell limitations (see HUD Guidelines Chapter 7).
- Compact footprint
fits where other systems can't such as window tracks & wells,
and narrow moldings.
- Measurement depth of
3/8" means no false positives due to hidden pipes in walls, or readings
on the other side of walls or doors.
- 18 hour system battery
life puts in a long days work.
- Quick battery charge
time of 1.5 hours without NiCad memory problems or possibility of
overcharge.
- Stores up to 4,000
readings
- Weighs less than 3
lbs with battery
- Selectable action
level
- Highly reliable solid
state CdTe sensor
- 2 Years parts and labor
warranty
- Fast readings without
decision trees
- Automatic substrate
correction
- Maximizes productivity
& reduces job time
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Screen
Shot of Data Entry Screen
Showing Drop-Down Menus & Lead Value
Sent to the PDA From the LPA-1
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LPA-1 with the
Portable Data Recorder (PDR)
PROTEC Instrument Corporation's
Portable Data Recorder (PDR) option is a low-cost, lightweight
data-entry solution for lead inspectors in the field. The
PDR is designed to run on a hand held PC running Windows®
software. It allows the lead inspector to quickly and easily
gather data in the field without any limitations. PDR interfaces
with the Report Generation Software
(RGS), streamlining data entry and allowing the inspector
to produce reports more quickly and efficiently.
Features include the following.
- Lightweight
PDR option.
- Fully customizable
software.
- Create your
own structures, substrates, and more.
- Auto save feature
prevents data loss.
- Auto reminder
feature keeps you synchronized with your LPA-1.
- Enter calibrations,
comments, and cover sheets.
- View your work
with preview feature.
- Export your
data as comma-delimited text.
- Interfaces with
the RMD software or
- Download &
merge the LPA-1 data directly to the PDR..
- Easy merge feature
to laptop or standard PC.
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Operating Modes: Flexibility &
Speed of Measurement
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There are
three measurement modes of operation in the LPA- 1 analyzer:
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Standard
Mode
-
Quick
Mode
-
Time
Corrected
In "Standard
Mode ", the operator selects a fixed measurement time which
remains constant regardless of the lead signal.
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In "Quick
Mode", the analyzer seeks the shortest period of time to assure
a definitive measurement with 95% confidence (2sigma). The LPA-
1 analyzer concludes a measurement once the 2 sigma confidence
level is achieved, typically between 2 to 4 seconds depending
on the action level and the lead content.
For calibration
checks, the user selects the "Time Corrected" mode. The Time Corrected
mode is a 30-second Standard Mode equivalent time corrected for
the life of the source.
The fast
analysis capability of the LPA-1 analyzer is complemented with
a data storage capacity of 4000 data points. After completing
the lead inspection, the measurement results may be transferred
from the LPA-1 to a computer at the inspectors convenience via
an RS-232/USB communication link. The easy to use LPA- 1 Report
Generating Software creates a simulation of the actual inspection
site with icons for doors, windows, steps, etc.
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Manual or Interactive
Mode
The LPA-1
can be used in either the "Manual: or "Interactive Mode".
The Interactive Mode allows the user to input all the sample parameters
and notes, and at the completion of an LPA-1 reading, that lead
value is sent directly from the LPA-1 to the PDR system. Therefore,
all lead inspection report information is contained in the PDR
system streamlining the Inspection Report production process.
Manual Mode
is used independent of direct connection to the LPA-1. Manual
Mode allows the user to enter all the reading parameters into
the PDR system and then quickly transferred, merged with the LPA-1
readings and opened using the report generation software (RGS)
to produce the Lead Inspection Reports.
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EPA RRP Regulations
- Lead Safe Certified Renovators
40 CFR 745.80
Subpart E pertains to work practices that disturb lead based paint
in pre-1978 homes, child care facilities and schools. Federal
laws encompass renovation of more that 6 square feet of painted
interior surfaces, 20 square feet of exterior painted surfaces,
window replacement or demolition in housing, child care facilities
and schools built before 1978. Acceptable test methods include:
- taking
paint chip samples & sending them to a certified laboratory
for analysis
- using
an EPA approved basic wet chemistry test kit
- using
a handheld XRF instrument
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LPA-1 Lead Paint Spectrum
Analyzer Package
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- LPA-1
XRF Analyzer
- (2) Rechargeable
batteries - 8 hours normal use
- Battery
Charger - Quick charge in 1.5 hours
- (2) surface
stabilizers
- Standard
reference material for calibration - 1.0 mg/cm2 NIST traceable
- Instruction
manual
- Computer
RS-232 interface cable
- Windows®
based Report Generation Software (RGS)
- Software
instruction manual
- Foam-lined
carrying case
- Optional
Portable Data Recorder (PDR), connection bracket, standard
PDA accessories & PDR Synch Software.
- Warranty:
parts & labor – 2 years
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PROTEC Instrument Corporation
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With
a long heritage built on a continuum linking science, research
and technology, PROTEC Instrument
Corporation has
a strong commitment to innovation and a successful track
record of bringing technology to market. Founded in 1977
as RMD Instruments, PROTEC Instrument
Corporations
principle Products and Technology business unit and has
been re-engineered to accelerate the pace of commercialization
through organic programs, licensing and acquisitions.
PROTEC Instrument
Corporation will continue to be committed to providing total
support to their customers through innovative products and
services.
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