How to Resolve XRF Safety Error and Locked Lid

While operating the XRF, you may encounter the following error:

“A safety error has occurred. The HT generator has been shut down by the safety circuit. To reset the safety circuit, do the following: […]”

When this error occurs: 

• The lid is locked. 

• You can’t continue to measure until you followed the procedure that is described in the error message, for safety reasons. 

   

Why This Happens

The XRF uses X-ray radiation and includes safety mechanisms to prevent exposure, since X-rays are unhealthy and exposure should be avoided. 

The system automatically locks when there's unexpected movement or vibrations are detected, or unsafe handling is suspected. The sensor locks itself when it unwanted vibrations are sensed, this ensures that no radiation can be emitted under unsafe conditions. Some common situations to cause a blocked lid:

• The BoxXRF sensor is moved to another location and handled too roughly.

• The BoxXRF is standing on a table and someone or something bumps into the table.

• The lid is closed too roughly/forcefully before the measurement starts.

• Someone tries to open the lid of the BoxXRF while the instrument is still measuring.

• Someone tries to open the lid of the BoxXRFwhen the measurement is finished, but when the lid is not yet unlocked.

   

How to Check if the Lid Is Unlocked

Before opening the lid, confirm the following: 

1. The yellow lights on both sides are off (Lights on would mean measurement still in progress)
2. You hear a clicking sound (This indicates the measurement is finished, not that the lid is unlocked)
3. Whether the color of the lid indicator in the upper right corner changes from orange to green (Green means lid is unlocked) This is shown on the picture. In this example the lid is closed but not locked.

(Figure 1: Example of closed but unlocked lid)

IMPORTANT: The lid will get locked permanently when this safety error occurs too frequently. In that case a specialist is needed to unlock the BoxXRF again.