User`s Manual - Applied Photonics Ltd
Contents
1. 1998 2015 Applied Photonics Ltd Page 3 of 31 The most significant hazard relating to exposure of personnel to the laser radiation 1s eye injury since direct or scattered laser radiation produced by the equipment can cause serious and permanent injury to the eyes including blindness such injury may be instantaneous Precautions must be taken to avoid exposure of personnel to hazardous levels of laser radiation Such precautions may include the setting up of a temporary or permanent laser controlled area eg a laser laboratory Other measures may also be necessary as determined by appropriate and thorough assessment of the risks ie a risk assessment conducted by the personnel responsible for the safe use of the laser equipment Consult the manual supplied with the laser for further guidance on the safe use of the laser The door of the sample chamber is equipped with a dual electrical interlock switch which is designed to prevent activation of the laser unless the door is fully closed The door interlock switch is electrically connected to the Interlock In Out port on the LIBS module via the 9 pin connector located directly above the laser aperture The Interlock In Out port connects with the SpectroModule 6 using the supplied lead which in turn is connected to the interlock circuits of the laser power supply The laser safety interface between the SpectroModule 6 and the laser power supply depends on the make and model of laser bei2. contamination etc is present Reducing the laser pulse repetition rate and or pulse energy and or increasing laser beam spot size on the surface of the sample may also help Gas purge using an inert gas such as argon will also help 1998 2015 Applied Photonics Ltd Page 30 of 31 Appendix Al Certificate of Conformity A APPLIED 7R PHOTONICS LASER SPECTROSCOPY SOLUTIONS EC Declaration of Conformity Applied Photonics Ltd declares that the product listed below has been designed and manufactured in compliance with the relevant standards as follows Product name LIBS 6 and LIBS 8 Integrated LIBS Modules Model Number LIBS 6 LIBS 8 Laser product safety This device conforms with the principal objectives of safety of laser products by application of the following standards PD IEC TR 60825 14 2004 and BS EN 207 1999 Electrical Safety This device conforms with the principal safety objectives of the European Directive 73 23 EEC as implemented by the Electrical Equipment Safety Regulations 1994 by application of the following standard BS EN 61010 1 2001 Electro Magnetic Compatibility This device conforms with the principal objectives of the European Directive 89 336 EEC as amended by 91 31 EEC and 93 68 EEC as implemented by The EMC Regulations SI 1992 No 2372 and amendment SI 1994 No 3080 by application of the following standard BS EN 61326 1 2006 Year of affixation of the CE Marking 2015 Signed Name An
3. coolant deionised water to the laser power supply Step 12 Open laser safety shutter refer to laser manufacturer s instructions Step 13 Activate laser by switching on key switch refer to laser manufacturer s instructions Step 14 With the laser switched on coolant water flowing but laser flashlamp not yet activated check for correct operation of the safety interlock by observing the Interlock light on the front panel of the laser power supply controller see following figure and opening closing the door of the sample chamber with LIBS 6 module fitted and all interlock cables correctly fitted If the interlock is working correctly the Interlock light should flash when the sample chamber door is open and be constantly illuminated when the door is closed If the interlock is found not to be operating correctly refer to the Fault Finding section of this User s Manual Note that if the LIBS 6 module is removed from the sample chamber the interlock circuit is designed to de activate the laser see section 6 on Operating instrument in open beam configuration Warning Do not operate the equipment if the safety interlock is not functioning correctly Step 15 Place a sample of material eg a metal block at the focal plane of the Nd Y AG laser beam inside the sample chamber Close the door of the sample chamber Using the controls on the Remote Box of the ICE 450 laser power supply see following figure and refer
4. nozzle LED light Breadboard plate with Electrical door interlock switch Magnetic catch for door Electrical door interlock switch A OE Oe X axis array of M6 tapped holes on 25 mm centres adjustment knob Feet suitable for Y axis attachment to a metric or adjustment knob 4 imperial optical table CAD view of SC 2L modular sample chamber 1998 2015 Applied Photonics Ltd Page 16 of 31 Fume extraction port for optional connection to an external air extraction unit 1 2 BSPP thread Label for laser safety windows CAD view of rear panel of SC 2L modular sample chamber The LIBS 8 and LIBS 6 modules are designed to fit to the top of the sample chamber using four M5 screws as illustrated in the following figures Before fitting the LIBS module to the sample chamber ensure that the breadboard plate is positioned sufficiently low so as not to make contact with the aperture nozzle of the LIBS module Be careful to fit the LIBS module squarely to the sample chamber so as not to cause damage to the electrical connectors Secure LIBS 6 module to SC 2L sample chamber using the four M5 cap Pi head screws Secure LIBS 6 module to SC 2L sample chamber using the four M5 cap head screws CAD view of SC 2L modular sample chamber illustrating method of attachment of LIBS 6 module 1998 2015 Applied Photoni
5. on laser power supply controller flashing If yes then check that sample chamber door is fully closed Ifa sample chamber is not fitted to the LIBS module and the equipment is required to be operated in open beam ie Class 4 Laser Product mode then the Interlock Override keyswitch on the SpectroModule 6 will need to be activated 4 Ifthe safety interlock appears to be working correctly but the laser still does not activate refer to the operating and fault finding instructions provided with the laser Laser induced plasma appears to be adequately intense although a poor signal is observed on some or all of the spectrometer channels 1 Ifusing LIBSoft software are the data acquisition settings on the software set up correctly 2 Is the composition of the sample such that emission lines are not expected to be seen on some or all of the spectrometer channels If yes then use an alternative sample which is known to have numerous emission lines eg an iron containing material such as steel zinc tin to check for correct operation of the LIBS system 3 Is the sample positioned correctly relative to the laser beam focus It may be necessary to adjust the position of the aperture nozzle and or the position of the focal plane of the laser beam 4 Is the laser pulse energy too low Increase if necessary Recorded spectra show some emission lines which are saturating the detector flat top appearance to the emission line 1 Reduce
6. suitably trained and experienced persons under the supervision of a duly appointed Laser Safety Officer should operate the LIBS 6 or LIBS 8 modules in open beam configuration The LIBS modules may be used without the sample chamber if required Under these conditions the laser beam is not contained ie the equipment is a Class 4 laser product and hence additional safety precautions must be observed including the use of appropriate laser protective eyewear and operating the laser equipment in a suitable controlled environment eg a laser laboratory Important it is the responsibility of the user to conduct an appropriate risk assessment prior to using the LIBS modules in open beam mode If the sample chamber is not fitted to the LIBS module it will be necessary to activate the Interlock Override keyswitch located on the control panel of the SpectroModule 6 spectrometer The LED warning light labelled Class 4 Warning will commence flashing assuming the laser is in an active state Consult your Laser Safety Officer before operating the LIBS modules in this mode Examples of a LIBS 6 module fitted to a Quantel Ultra laser and being used in open beam mode 1998 2015 Applied Photonics Ltd Page 28 of 31 Te Maintenance and inspection The LIBS 6 and LIBS 8 modules and associated equipment including the adaptor plate safety interlock components and the sample chamber if used should be periodically inspected for signs
7. the pulse energy of the laser using the controls on the front panel of the laser power supply manual mode of operation or via the LIBSoft software software control mode of operation 2 Increase spot size of laser beam on sample by adjusting the position of the sample relative to the focal plane of the laser beam 3 Increase the integration delay setting using the relevant menu in LIBSotft Recorded spectra show some emission lines suffering from self reversal ie a dip in the centre of the emission line 1 Reduce the pulse energy of the laser 2 Increase spot size of laser beam on sample by adjusting the position of the sample surface relative to the focal plane of the laser beam it is usual to set focus to be approximately 1 to 3 millimetres into the sample surface 3 Increase the integration delay setting using the relevant menu in LIBSotft Air breakdown is observed in the path of the laser beam just in front of the sample surface 1 The position of the sample and or the focal plane of the laser beam is set incorrectly ie the focal plane is located in front of the sample adjust position of sample so that the focal plane of the laser beam is coincident or preferably just into the sample surface 2 On irradiation by the laser beam the sample is creating considerable quantities of particulates in the path of the laser beam Try cleaning the surface of the sample if loose material eg oxide surface
8. to use a Serial to USB converter note that this device usually requires the installation of a software driver on the personal computer refer to the instructions provided for installing LIBSoft software Note that the laser Remote Box should not be used while LIBSoft is running as this will result in the laser reverting to manual control To resume LIBSoft software control of the laser it will be necessary to switch off the laser and close LIBSoft then switch on the laser followed by re starting LIBSoft Refer to the LIBSoft Quick Start guide appended to this User s Manual Step 17 If using LIBSoft software to control the spectrometers follow the instructions provided with the LIBSoft software to correctly configure the spectrometers and the laser for acquiring data Step 18 Adjustment of the laser output energy is achieved by adjusting the Flashlamp to Q Switch FL QS delay time When running the laser in manual mode the FL QS delay time may be adjusted via the Remote Box refer to laser manufacturer s instructions For the Ultra 100 mJ laser the factory setting is typically around 140 microseconds for maximum laser output energy although this will vary from laser to laser Increasing the FL QS delay will reduce the laser output energy For the Ultra 100 mJ laser the user will only be able to adjust the FL QS delay setting from the minimum factory setting typically 140 microseconds up to 500 microseconds although the laser output ener
9. 0 mm mm travel per stage manual travel per stage manual control travel per stage manual control travel per stage manual control control Fume extract port Internal LED Fume extract port Internal LED Approx overall dimensions 110 x light light Approx overall dimensions 110 x 120 x 260 mm approx 2 5 kg Approx overall dimensions 160 Approx overall dimensions 280 x 120 x 210 mm approx 2 0 kg x 160 x 260 mm approx 4 0kg 250x 330 mm 15 kg SC 2XL XYZ 750 XY Z 2500 SC LQ1 3 axis translation stage 50 mm 3 axis translation stage 75 mm 3 axis translation stage X amp Y Modular sample chamber travel per stage manual control travel per stage computer travel 250 mm Z travel 100 designed to analyse liquids Fume extract port Internal LED controlled Fume extract port mm Fume extract port Internal Liquid drain port in base of light Internal LED light LED light chamber Note This sample Approx overall dimensions 330 x Approx overall dimensions 330x Approx overall dimensions 470 x chamber is currently being 360 x 430 mm approx 20 kg 360 x 480 mm approx 24 kg 770 x 730 mm approx 56 kg redesigned Current range of modular sample chambers manufactured by Applied Photonics Ltd WARNING The above range of modular sample chambers are designed specifically for use with the LIBS 6 LIBS 8 integrated LIBS modules or the LIBSCAN range of modular LIBS systems The specifications for the
10. 28 29 29 30 31 Page 2 of 31 1 Introduction The LIBS 6 and LIBS 8 integrated Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy LIBS modules are designed to be a highly versatile product for use by research scientists application engineers and OEMs Essentially a LIBS system building block the LIBS 6 and LIBS 8 modules may be used together with a variety of Q switched Nd YAG lasers and optical spectrometers to form a customised modular LIBS system tailored to suit the requirements of a specific application or experimental research project The LIBS modules remove the need for the research scientist or application engineer to design and construct their own laser focussing optics and plasma light collection optics by combining these features into a compact integrated and easy to use device An optional imaging kit may be added to the LIBS module increasing further its functionality and versatility This User s Manual provides the necessary information needed to configure the integrated LIBS modules and how to use them safely It is assumed that the user will be familiar with the safety issues arising from the use of high power lasers and will have preferably been trained in the safe use of high power Class 4 laser products 2 Safety 2 1 Laser radiation The LIBS 6 and LIBS 8 integrated LIBS modules are designed for use with a high power Q switched Nd YAG laser Class 4 and so it is imperative the equipment is operated only by suitabl
11. IBS equipment For advice on this matter consult your Laser Safety Officer and or Applied Photonics Ltd e ONLY suitably qualified and authorised persons should activate the Interlock Override keyswitch The key should be removed from the keyswitch and held by the Laser Safety Officer when this feature is not required e ALWAYS use appropriate laser safety protective eyewear when operating the LIBS modules and associated laser equipment in open beam configuration you should seek advice from your Laser Safety Officer on this matter e ALWAYS switch the laser off when not in use and remove the key from the keyswitch of the laser power supply to prevent unauthorised activation 1998 2015 Applied Photonics Ltd Page 4 of 31 e ALWAYS thoroughly inspect the LIBS module and associated laser equipment for damage prior to use Particular attention should be given to the laser safety windows and the laser safety interlock system which should be tested each time the equipment is used e NEVER allow unauthorised and or untrained persons operate the LIBS module and associated laser equipment e NEVER operate the LIBS module and associated laser equipment in areas where explosive gas mixtures may be present e NEVER operate the LIBS module and associated laser equipment with any access cover panel or protective window removed e NEVER place inside the sample chamber flammable liquids or any other material which may give rise to flamm
12. LIBS 6 amp LIBS 83 Integrated Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy LIBS Modules User s Manual March 2015 Doc Ref UM 2020 01 A APPLIED ZX PHOTONICS LASER SPECTROSCOPY SOLUTIONS Applied Photonics Ltd Unit 8 Carleton Business Park Skipton North Yorkshire BD23 2DE United Kingdom Tel 44 0 1756 708900 Fax 44 0 1756 708909 Web www appliedphotonics co uk Contents l Introduction 2 Safety 24 Laser radiation 2 2 Note on the laser safety window material used in the modular sample chambers aN Electrical J General description 3 1 Overview 3 2 Laser beam expander and plasma light collection optics 3 3 Attaching the LIBS module to a laser 3 4 Modular sample chambers 3 4 1 SC 2C modular sample chamber 3 4 2 SC 2L modular sample chamber 3 5 Quantel Ultra ICE 450 laser power supply and Interlock Override Keyswitch 3 6 Imaging camera and associated components 3 7 Low voltage electrical connections 3 8 Assembly of system based on LIBS 8 Ultra laser and SC 2L sample chamber 4 Operating procedure 4 1 Introduction 4 2 Important note on back reflections of laser radiation 4 3 Step by Step guide to operating the LIBS equipment 5 Shut down procedure 6 Operating LIBS 6 and LIBS 8 modules in open beam configuration T Maintenance and inspection 8 Shipping and storage 9 Trouble shooting fault finding Appendices Al Certificate of Conformity 1998 2015 Applied Photonics Ltd Page OV OW W WW
13. SpectroModule 8 LIBS spectrometer as part of your LIBS equipment If you are using an alternative spectrometer you may need to use an additional device to interface the LIBS 6 module to your spectrometer and the laser power supply If in any doubt you should contact us for advice prior to setting up your LIBS equipment as incorrect or incomplete electrical connections between the LIBS 6 module and the laser power supply will render the laser safety interlock functions ineffective 4 2 Important note on back reflections of laser radiation Please note that when using high power Q switched lasers of the type used with LIBS equipment it is very easy to cause serious damage to the optical components of the LIBS equipment including the laser by inadvertently creating a situation where a significant amount of laser radiation is reflected back into the LIBS 6 module and or laser head Persons familiar with the use of these types of laser will appreciate that merely placing a glass window in the path of the laser beam can result in up to 4 of the laser radiation from each optical surface to be reflected back towards the laser source If the laser beam is being focussed to a small spot as in the case of a LIBS instrument the back reflected laser light will also be focussed to a small spot and if this happens to coincide with an optical element such as a lens output coupler or laser rod significant and permanent damage to that optical element can occur Ac
14. able explosive gas mixtures Activation of the laser under these conditions could result in an explosion leading to severe personal injury and or fire hazard Remember that the laser induced plasma is a source of ignition e NEVER point the LIBS module and associated laser equipment at a person even with laser switched off especially towards the eyes even if the person is wearing laser safety eyewear The laser should be considered active unless the laser power supply is deactivated and the safety shutter fitted to the laser head is switched to the CLOSED position e NOTE that neither the opaque black Delrin nozzle aperture nor the transparent acrylic nozzle aperture provide any protection to the user against exposure to direct or scattered laser radiation The function of the nozzle aperture is described later in this User s Manual Laser warning indicator light Laser aperture warning label Laser aperture Image of LIBS 6 module showing location of laser warning indicator light laser aperture and warning label 1998 2015 Applied Photonics Ltd Page 5 of 31 2 2 Note on the laser safety window material used in the modular sample chambers The laser safety window material fitted to the sample chamber is rated as follows acer UK amp European Standard ANSI Z 136 1 2000 BS EN 207 1999 Wavelength Optical Protection Level R nm Density Q switched laser 1064 D6 _ _ Y D6 R L6 at 1064 nm indic
15. action before assembling and using the instrument Of particular importance are the safety critical components such as the laser safety windows and electrical lid interlock of the sample chamber Seek advice from the manufacturer if necessary Do not operate the equipment with any of the covers removed Step 2 Prior to connecting the laser power supply sample chamber etc the LIBS module should first be placed on a suitable surface such as a laboratory bench or optical table It is highly desirable to secure the LIBS module in some way eg by utilizing the feet which may be attached to the base of the LIBS module which are designed to suit a metric or imperial optical table to prevent accidental dropping of the module resulting in possible damage to the sensitive components inside Step 3 Fit the laser head to the LIBS module using the appropriate adaptor platform and attach assembly to the LIBS module as illustrated earlier in this User s Manual Step 4 If the sample chamber is to be used fit the LIBS module to the sample chamber using the four M5 screws supplied with the unit as illustrated in the previous figures Step 5 Connect the LIBS 6 module to the SpectroModule 6 or alternative interface to the laser power supply using the supplied lead Step 6 Connect the coolant pipes and electrical cables supplied with the laser between the laser head and the ICE 450 laser power supply Refer to the laser manufacturer s instructions St
16. ates a protection level of maximum spectral transmittance of 10 at 1064 nm for a pulsed laser of pulse length 10 10 seconds ie a Q switched laser The laser safety windows used in Applied Photonics Ltd s range of modular sample chambers provide adequate protection against scattered laser light of wavelength 1064 nm 355 nm and 266 nm such that Class 1 Accessible Emission Limits are met if the sample chamber is used correctly and laser pulse energies are not excessively high ie typically less than 250 mJ with a 5 10 ns pulse length Note that the protective windows are NOT suitable for use with a 532 nm laser Given that the LIBS 6 and LIBS 8 modules may be used with a variety of lasers it is the responsibility of the user to conduct a risk assessment to establish whether or not the laser safety windows provide adequate protection for the particular laser being used If in any doubt you should consult your Laser Safety Officer and or Applied Photonics Ltd for advice on this matter Warning the Applied Photonics Ltd modular sample chambers are designed specifically for use with our LIBS 6 LIBS 8 integrated LIBS modules and our LIBSCAN range of products and should not be used with any other laser device or product If in doubt seek advice from the manufacturer Applied Photonics Ltd 2 3 Electrical The LIBS 6 and LIBS 8 integrated LIBS modules contain electrical circuits operating at 12 VDC at a maximum current of 2 5 Amp
17. cordingly it is very bad practice and potentially a very expensive mistake on the part of the user to carelessly place objects in the beam path of a Q switched laser Clearly with LIBS it is necessary to place an object in the laser beam path so certain precautions must be observed as follows One way of considering this issue is as follows If a laser plasma is being formed either on the sample or object you have placed in the laser beam path or in the air gas in front of the sample object then back reflections are highly unlikely to be a problem since most of the laser energy will be absorbed by the plasma Itis when a laser plasma is not formed that you have to really worry about back reflections If you have placed an object in the laser beam path in such a way that a laser plasma is not formed on that object then you should carefully consider what is happening to the laser energy which is impinging on the surface of the object since all materials will reflect at least some of the laser radiation Unless the user is particularly familiar with the use of Q switched Nd YAG lasers and is fully aware of the risks of damage to optics due to back reflections of laser radiation we strongly recommend that the LIBS 6 module is only used with the aperture nozzle fitted The presence of the aperture nozzle prevents the user from placing an object too close to the laser beam expander optics in the LIBS 6 module so that the object can only be located cl
18. cs Ltd Page 17 of 31 Ultra laser head AP Ultra adaptor plate LIBS 6 module SC 2L modular sample chamber Breadboard sample table CAD view of LIBS 6 module with Ultra laser fitted to SC 2L modular sample chamber 1998 2015 Applied Photonics Ltd Page 18 of 31 Gooseneck LED light Fume extract nozzle Laser plasma Breadboard sample table with array of M6 tapped holes on Sample 25 mm centres Close up view of inside of SC 2L sample chamber with LIBS 6 module fitted and showing a laser induced plasma on a metallic sample 3 5 Quantel Ultra ICE 450 laser power supply and Interlock Override Keyswitch See the Quantel s instructions for a complete description of the ICE 450 laser power supply and cooling group unit The electrical connections between the ICE 450 power supply and the SpectroModule 6 are illustrated schematically in the following diagram WARNING It is necessary to fit the BNC clamping piece after connecting the interlock BNC connectors in order for the LIBS system to meet Class Laser Product standards Interlock OUT BNC port Interlock IN BNC port Q Switch OUT BNC port BNC clamping piece used to prevent unauthorised disconnection of laser safety interlock BNC connectors a poeeo et Doe W labelled 10101 Schematic diagram illustrating interlock Q Switch OUT and RS232 electrical connections to ICE 450 laser power supply 1998 2015 Applied Photon
19. drew I Whitehouse Title Managing Director Place Applied Photonics Ltd Unit 8 Carleton Business Park Skipton North Yorkshire BD23 2DE United Kingdom Date March 2015 1998 2015 Applied Photonics Ltd Page 31 of 31
20. e electrical connections The following schematic diagram illustrates how the LIBS module is electrically connected to the SpectroModule 6 the ICE 450 laser power supply and the system computer Note that the USB to Serial converter and associated software driver is only required if the system computer is not equipped with a serial port PC Laptop Tablet USB serial converter a a ICE450 USB PSU video 4 2 QS Out grabber f N Intl Out 1 ed Intlk In Interlock In Out AP Ultra adaptor Out plate Schematic diagram illustrating electrical connections between LIBS module SpectroModule 6 laser power supply and PC 3 8 Assembly of system based on LIBS 6 Ultra laser SpectroModule 6 and SC 2L sample chamber Follow Quantel s instructions copy available on the USB Drive attached to the keys for the laser power supply for filling the Ultra s ICE 450 laser power supply with cooling water and for connecting the water and electrical supplies to the laser head Using the schematic diagram on the preceding page section 3 7 make all electrical connections using the supplied leads interconnecting leads supplied with the LIBS 6 modular LIBS system are labelled to facilitate final assembly The LIBS 6 module is optically connected to the SpectroModule 6 spectrometer using six optical fibres One of the optical fibres is marked SR solarisation resistant a
21. ep 7 Using the supplied BNC cables connect the INTLK OUT connector on the SpectroModule 6 to the INTLK OUT connector on the ICE 450 laser power supply Do likewise for the INTLK IN connections Note that the connections should be made as follows INTLK IN to INTLK IN and INTLK OUT to INTLK OUT Step 8 Connect the Trigger In port on the SpectroModule 6 or your spectrometer system if you are not using a SpectroModule 6 spectrometer to the Q Switch OUT port on the front of the laser power supply requires a BNC to BNC lead Step 9 Connect fibre optic cables between the LIBS 6 module and the SpectroModule 6 spectrometer following the instructions provided earlier in this User s Manual Step 10 If the gas purge feature is to be used connect a suitable inert gas supply Argon Helium Nitrogen Air to the Inert Gas Supply port using 4 mm OD flexible tubing a length of this type of tubing is supplied with the LIBS module coloured green WARNING the gas supply MUST be externally regulated to restrict pressure to less than approx 5 psi 2 to 3 psi should be adequate and to control the flow rate DO NOT USE FLAMMABLE GASES 1998 2015 Applied Photonics Ltd Page 25 of 31 SMA terminated fibre optic cables 6 required for LIBS 6 module 8 required for LIBS 8 module Gas purge inlet port takes 4 mm OD flexible nylon tubing Step 11 Follow instructions supplied with laser for correct procedure for adding
22. gy will likely be approaching zero with a FL QS delay setting of approx 400 microsconds When running the laser via LIBSoft the laser energy may be adjusted in a similar fashion but by entering an appropriate FL QS delay time via LIBSoft rather than the Remote Box If the laser energy has been calibrated ie output energy vs FL QS delay it is possible to enter this calibration into LIBSoft so that the laser energy is displayed in mJ rather than as FL QS delay in microseconds Refer to the application Help function available in LIBSoft for guidance on this Step 19 After successfully testing the LIBS module and associated equipment it 1s now ready for use Measurement conditions such as Nd YAG laser pulse energy and position of sample surface with respect to laser beam focal plane will need to be adjusted to suit the requirements of the experiment 1998 2015 Applied Photonics Ltd Page 27 of 31 3 Shut down procedure Step 1 Shut down LIBSoft software 1f being used and then switch off laser power supply and isolate from mains electrical supply Step 2 Close the laser safety shutter on the laser head refer to laser manufacturer s instructions Step 3 Isolate 12 Volt DC plug in power adaptor from mains electrical supply and disconnect from the SpectroModule 6 spectrometer Step 4 Disconnect gas supply if connected 6 Operating LIBS 6 and LIBS 8 modules in open beam configuration Warning Class 4 Laser Product Only
23. he transparent aperture nozzle is threaded so that rotation causes it to move along the optic axis of the laser beam range of travel is approximately 7 5 mm it may be removed from the body of the LIBS module by unscrewing further The main purpose of the transparent aperture nozzle is to provide a convenient means of setting the distance to the sample surface The nozzle aperture also provides containment of the purge gas to ensure the sample surface and laser induced plasma region are effectively purged of atmospheric air and provides physical protection for the laser and plasma light collection optics and imaging camera if fitted 1998 2015 Applied Photonics Ltd Page 9 of 31 Fibre optic cable Transparent to spectrometer aperture nozzle Adjustment range of transparent aperture nozzle approx 7 5 mm Adjustment range of focal plane of laser beam approx 7 5 mm Brass holder containing laser beam expander lenses x Threaded section e Fibre optic cable to spectrometer Threaded section Close up view of laser beam focus and field of view of plasma light collection optics 3 3 Attaching the LIBS module to a laser The LIBS modules are suitable for use with virtually any commercially available Q switched Nd YAG laser which has operating characteristics appropriate for LIBS In order to attach either the LIBS 6 or LIBS 8 module to a laser head it 1s necessary to use an appropriate adaptor platform At
24. ics Ltd Page 19 of 31 The Interlock Override keyswitch located on the control panel of the SpectroModule 6 is used to override the laser safety interlock when the LIBS 6 or LIBS 8 module is required to be used in open beam configuration ie without a sample chamber To override the interlock the keyswitch should be turned on by turning clock wise as indicated in the image below The orange yellow LED indicator to the left of the keywitch labelled Class 4 Warning will flash continuously when the keyswitch is activated and the laser is in active mode When the keyswitch is set to off the LED will be extinguished indicating that the laser safety interlock is operating The key should be removed from the Interlock Override keyswitch to prevent unauthorised activation of the interlock override WARNING When the Interlock Override keyswitch is activated the LIBS system becomes a Class 4 Laser Product hence appropriate safety procedures and precautions MUST be adopted when operating the LIBS system in this mode TLK HBS pec2 SPEC3 rt HEAD SPEC 1 e ee ELO ss q Laser Interlock Override Keyswitch and warning indicator LED Image illustrating Interlock Override keyswitch on the SpectroModule 6 control panel 1998 2015 Applied Photonics Ltd Page 20 of 31 3 6 Imaging camera and associated components The imaging camera is offered as an optional feature for both the LIBS 6 and the LIBS 8 modules
25. l electrical interlocks Adjustment knob for X axis translation stage View of SC 2C modular sample chamber The sample chamber is equipped with a number of features as illustrated in the following figures Electrical connection to LIBS module Door with magnetic catch and dual electrical interlocks CAD view of SC 2C modular sample chamber 1998 2015 Applied Photonics Ltd Page 13 of 31 Adjustment knob for y axis translation stage Door with magnetic catch and dual electrical interlocks Attachment screws ly wm for fitting sample as gee chamber to LIBS G os a J module ily ay a i tin P Adjustment knob for x axis translation Breadboard plate with stage array of M6 tapped holes on 25 mm centres CAD view of SC 2C modular sample chamber The SC 2C modular sample chamber is designed to fit to the LIBS module using four M5 screws as illustrated in the following figures Before fitting the sample chamber to the LIBS module ensure that the breadboard plate is positioned sufficiently low so as not to make contact with the aperture nozzle of the LIBS module use the y axis adjustment knob to lower the breadboard plate Be careful to fit the sample chamber squarely to the LIBS module so as not to cause damage to the electrical connectors Secure SC 2C sample chamber to the LIBS 6 module using the four M5 cap head screws CAD views of SC 2C modular sample chamber illustrating me
26. laser safety windows are as follows Laser ANSI Z 136 1 2000 BS EN 207 1999 Wavelength Optical Protection Level R nm Density Q switched laser Oo 6 1064 D6 _ L6 355 266 R L6 at 1064 nm indicates a protection level of maximum spectral transmittance of 10 at 1064 nm for a pulsed laser of pulse length 10 10 seconds ie a Q switched laser Since the LIBS 6 LIBS 8 integrated LIBS modules may be used with various laser devices it is the responsibility of the user to establish whether the protection offered by the laser safety windows is adequate for the laser being used If in doubt seek advice from a suitably qualified Laser Safety Officer or contact Applied Photonics Ltd before operating the laser equipment 1998 2015 Applied Photonics Ltd Page 12 of 31 3 4 1 SC 2C modular sample chamber A general view of the SC 2C modular sample chamber is given in the following figure The sample chamber is equipped with a breadboard plate which is attached to a manual two axis translation stage approx 20 mm travel per stage The breadboard plate has an array of M6 tapped blind holes on 25 mm centres and which may be used to facilitate the attachment of a sample holder etc Movement of the breadboard is achieved by adjustment of the knobs on the side and top of the sample chamber as illustrated below Adjustment knob for y axis translation stage Laser safety window Door with magnetic catch and dua
27. nd this fibre should be used for the Deep UV DUV channel ie SPEC 1 on the spectrometer and the LIBS 6 blue lens folder at the 1 O Clock position as viewed from the front of the LIBS 6 module Proceeding in a clockwise manner the remaining plasma light lens holders should be connected to the SPEC 2 SPEC 6 channels on the spectrometer using the fibre optic cables It is important to connect the BLUE lens holders to channels to 3 on the spectrometer and the RED lens holders to channels 4 to 6 on the spectrometer as illustrated in the following diagram 1998 2015 Applied Photonics Ltd Page 22 of 31 DUV channel connect to SPEC 1 Use Solarisation Resistant SR fibre VIS NIR channel connect to SPEC 6 UV VIS channel connect to SPEC 2 VIS NIR channel connect to SPEC 5 VIS NIR channel connect to SPEC 4 UV VIS channel connect to SPEC 3 Schematic diagram illustrating fibre optic connectivity between LIBS 6 module and SpectroModule 6 spectrometer The following image illustrates how the system should look after final assembly Fibre optic cables ICE 450 laser power supply SpectroModule 6 spectrometer e Image of LIBS 6 Ultra laser eiee 6 and SC 2L pe chamber after final assembly Page 23 of 31 1998 2015 Applied Photonics Ltd 4 Operating procedure 4 1 Introduction This operating procedure assumes that you are using an Applied Photonics Ltd SpectroModule 6 or
28. ng used Throughout this User s Manual it is assumed that a Quantel Ultra laser with ICE 450 power supply is being used Removal of the sample chamber from the LIBS module or disconnection of the Interlock In Out lead will also activate the interlock ie prevent activation of the laser The SpectroModule 6 is equipped with an Interlock Override facility a keyswitch which allows the interlock to be disabled so that the LIBS system may be used without a sample chamber ie open beam mode In view of this the LIBS modules must be categorised as a Class 4 laser product since by design the product may be used in such a way that the laser beam is not contained ie open beam mode of operation If however the sample chamber is correctly fitted to the LIBS module and the Interlock Override keyswitch is switched off and the key removed then the laser radiation is adequately contained to Class 1 Accessible Emission Limits by the design of the hardware IMPORTANT e READ and UNDERSTAND both this User s Manual and the instructions provided by the manufacturer of the laser before operating the integrated LIBS module LIBS 6 or LIBS 8 and associated laser equipment e ENSURE that an appropriate risk assessment has been conducted to establish whether or not the laser safety windows fitted to the modular sample chambers provide adequate protection against exposure to laser radiation for the specific laser you intend to use with the L
29. of damage or wear and tear Of particular importance are the safety features including the laser safety windows and the laser safety interlock mechanisms and associated electrical circuits If any damage to the laser safety windows is observed or suspected or the sample chamber door interlock switch is not functioning correctly the equipment should be temporarily removed from service until the fault is rectified For maintaining and inspecting the laser the documentation supplied with the laser should be consulted If in any doubt contact the manufacturer Applied Photonics Ltd for further advice on maintenance and inspection of their LIBS products 8 Shipping and storage The LIBS 6 and LIBS 8 modules should be kept in a clean dry environment which is free from extremes of temperature The module contains sensitive optical and electro optical components and so should be protected from excessive vibration or shock During transport the module and associated components should be packed in such a way as to prevent damage from shock or vibration and protected from ingress of dust For shipping or storage of the laser refer to the laser manufacturer s instructions for the correct procedure 1998 2015 Applied Photonics Ltd Page 29 of 31 9 Trouble shooting fault finding Laser does not activate 1 Is the laser shutter set to the OPEN position 2 Is the safety interlock connected correctly 3 Is the Interlock indicator light
30. of focal plane made by rotating the brass beam expander lens holder via the cut way in the laser beam tube adjustment range of approx 15 mm e Adjustable nozzle aperture which provides a convenient means of setting the distance to the sample surface adjustment range of approx 15 mm The nozzle aperture may be removed if this feature is not required e Gas purge port accepts 4 mm flexible nylon tube which may be used to feed inert gas eg argon helium nitrogen to the sample surface To ensure purge gas is directed to the sample it is necessary to fit the nozzle aperture e Optional miniature CCD colour video camera with array of dimmable high brightness white LEDs for illuminating sample surface e Laser safety interlock with keyswitch operated override facility via the SpectroModule 6 spectrometer e Compatible with the Applied Photonics Ltd range of modular sample chambers 1998 2015 Applied Photonics Ltd Page 8 of 31 Laser warning p ndear Electrical connection to sample chamber Miniature CCD Grub screw for locking APAAPA aperture nozzle do not optional feature over tighten Circular array of six lens holders used to collect plasma light The blue lens holders are for collection of Circular array of high gt UV VIS while the red lens brightness white LED lights holders are for collection of optional feature VIS NIR LIBS 8 version has 4 UV VIS blue and 4 VIS NIR red len
31. ose to the focal plane of the laser beam under which conditions a plasma will be formed unless the laser pulse energy is set to a very low value or beyond the focal plane where the laser beam will be diverging Our advice to the user is that they should carefully consider the issue of back reflections before placing any object in the laser beam path Under most situations placing an object at or beyond the focal plane of the laser beam will not result in back reflections which are of sufficient intensity to cause damage However there are always scenarios where damaging back reflections can still occur such as placing a focussing mirror in the laser beam path beyond the focal plane of the laser beam If you have any doubts or concerns about your proposed application potentially causing damaging back reflections contact Applied Photonics Ltd before using your LIBS equipment It is the responsibility of the user to minimise the risk of damage to optics caused by back reflections of laser radiation Please note that the manufacturer s warranty does not cover damage caused by back reflections of laser radiation 1998 2015 Applied Photonics Ltd Page 24 of 31 4 3 Step by Step guide to operating the LIBS equipment Step 1 The LIBS module and associated components should first be checked for obvious signs of damage loose fixings etc prior to use If any of the components of the instrument are found to be of suspect condition take remedial
32. product code IMG 1 As illustrated below a miniature colour CCD camera is located within the green tubular holder at the 12 o clock position adjacent to the array of plasma light collection optics The tubular holder is fitted with an optical filter to protect the CCD camera from damage due to possible high levels of stray laser light laser wavelength must be specified when placing an order The camera requires a 12 VDC supply which is derived from the power in port located on the side of the LIBS module The video signal is obtained via connection to the Video Out phono connector Array of high Miniature CCD bri ghtness white LED dimmer camera LED lights control Video Out Phono connector CAD images of LIBS 6 module showing location of CCD camera and associated electrical connections Viewing angle of miniature CCD camera relative to laser beam Laser beam CAD image of LIBS 6 module showing viewing angle of integrated miniature CCD camera The specifications for the miniature CCD camera are 1 3 inch CCD colour sensor 473 000 pixels Adjustable focus approx 20 mm to infinity Micro f 12 mm 24 degree field of view 12 VDC 65 mA 1998 2015 Applied Photonics Ltd Page 21 of 31 The video images are fed to the system computer via the USB frame grabber supplied with the imaging kit An imaging feature included with LIBSoft may then be used to display an image of the sample being analysed 3 7 Low voltag
33. s Accordingly they pose no electric shock risk The laser head and associated power supply however contain electrical circuits operating at potentially lethal voltage and current levels Consult the manufacturer s User Manual supplied with the laser for further guidance on the safe use of the laser 1998 2015 Applied Photonics Ltd Page 6 of 31 3 General description 3 1 Overview The main components of the LIBS 6 integrated LIBS module are illustrated in the following figures The LIBS 8 module is essentially identical to the LIBS 6 module except that it has eight plasma light collection channels rather than six 1998 2015 Applied Photonics Ltd Page 7 of 31 L High aser intensity LED Laser warning dimmer interlock light control connection Electrical connection to sample chamber Electronics enclosure Optics screw z Front Gamera array Transparent bulkhead ousing nozzle aperture Cut away to allow Beam adjustment of laser focus expander wa E S Fibre optic f cable Threaded High Gas purge Tie bar ring Plasma light intensity port Rear collection LEDs bulkhead lens holder The LIBS modules provide the following features e Plasma light collection lens array having a relatively large depth of field to allow efficient light collection even when plasma position varies by 5 mm along optic axis of laser beam e 3 lens laser beam expander with adjustable focus adjustment
34. s holders Gas purge outlet Laser beam expander and output aperture Front view of LIBS 6 module showing plasma light collection lens array CCD camera LED lights laser aperture and gas purge outlet The above diagrams illustrate the LIBS 6 module Throughout the remainder of this User s Manual for the purposes of simplicity only the LIBS 6 module together with a Quantel Big Sky Ultra laser and either the SC 2C or the larger SC 2L modular sample chambers are described 3 2 Laser beam expander and plasma light collection optics The optical configuration used in the integrated LIBS modules is illustrated schematically in the following diagram The laser beam expander consists of three lenses and is used to provide a tightly focussed laser beam at nominally 90 mm from the aperture of the beam expander 80 mm for the LIBS 6 beam expander The optical design is specific to the make and model of laser which the LIBS module is to be used with this is specified at the time of ordering of the LIBS module The brass tubular piece which houses the beam expander lenses is threaded so that rotating it causes the focal plane of the laser beam to move The design allows for approximately 7 5 mm of adjustment as illustrated in the following diagrams The plasma light collection optics are angled at approx 15 7 degrees 17 4 degrees for the LIBS 6 module and are designed to collect light from the region in space defined in the following diagram T
35. the time of writing of this User s Manual Applied Photonics Ltd supplies adaptor platforms for the following lasers Laser Product Adaptor Platform Quantel Brilliant and Brilliant B AP Brilliant Quantel Big Sky Ultra CFR range of lasers AP Ultra Quantel Big Sky CFR 200 range of lasers AP CFR200 Quantel Big Sky CFR 400 range of lasers AP CFR400 Should your laser not be listed above contact Applied Photonics Ltd giving details of the make and model of your laser to enquire about availability of a suitable adaptor platform 1998 2015 Applied Photonics Ltd Page 10 of 31 The method of assembly of the adaptor platform and laser head is illustrated in the following figures Quantel Big Sky Ultra CFR laser head Laser safety shutter AP Ultra adaptor platform No 6 UNC x 4 SS Hex C S Hd Screws l Qty 3 Hex Cap Hd Screws Qty 4 LIBS 6 module fitted to Quantel Big Sky Ultra laser head using AP Ultra adaptor platform 1998 2015 Applied Photonics Ltd Page 11 of 31 3 4 Modular sample chambers A range of modular sample chambers is available for use with the LIBS 6 LIBS 8 modules see table below These sample chambers are also suitable for use with our LIBSCAN range of products Two types SC 2C and SC 2L are described in more detail in the remainder of this User s Manual Single axis translation stage 20 2 axis translation stage 20 mm 2 axis translation stage 20 mm 3 axis translation stage 5
36. thod of attachment to LIBS 6 module 1998 2015 Applied Photonics Ltd Page 14 of 31 CAD views of SC 2C modular sample chamber attached to LIBS 6 module 3 4 2 SC 2L modular sample chamber A general view of the SC 2L modular sample chamber is given in the following figure The sample chamber is equipped with a breadboard plate which is attached to a manual three axis translation stage 50 mm travel per stage The breadboard plate has an array of M6 tapped blind holes on 25 mm centres and which may be used to facilitate the attachment of a sample holder etc Movement of the breadboard is achieved by adjustment of the knobs on the sides and top of the sample chamber as illustrated below Adjustment knb oe eee i for Z axis A 53 aL g translation stage T ri Door with magnetic catch and dual electrical o B Laser safety P windows interlocks s 3 ie yy Adjustment knob Adjustment knob y ji _ for x axis translation for y axis s stage translation stage S 3 A eY Pri as ee Di gg ee a7 Sky Rea Te lt a gt Se E ey oe 4 TA IF ak oe any ae c y agri Fi EN C OSN bi View of SC 2L modular sample chamber 1998 2015 Applied Photonics Ltd Page 15 of 31 The sample chamber is equipped with a number of features as illustrated in the following figures CAD views of SC 2L modular sample chamber Z axis Fume extract adjustment knob Gooseneck i
37. to laser manufacturer s instructions the laser beam may now be fired by 1 first activating the flashlamp and 11 then activating the Q Switch If the sample material is located at or near to the focal plane of the laser beam a laser induced plasma will be produced on the surface of the sample It may be necessary to adjust the position of the aperture nozzle to obtain correct positioning of the sample surface refer to Section 3 2 of this User s Manual SSS S Fault warning light also indicates when an interlock on has been tripped 6 9 666 3 View of front panel of Ultra laser power supply controller referred to as Remote Box in Quantel s documentation 1998 2015 Applied Photonics Ltd Page 26 of 31 Distance may be adjusted several mm by rotating the aperture nozzle Use this feature to set position of aperture nozzle to facilitate correct positioning of sample surface Locking screw Do not over tighten Adjust position of laser beam focus by rotating the knurled section of the brass tube 1 mm pitch thread CAD view of LIBS 6 module showing method for adjusting position of aperture nozzle and laser beam focus Step 16 If using LIBSoft software to control the laser connect the personal computer to the serial port on the front panel of the ICE 450 laser power supply using the supplied Serial to Serial lead If the personal computer is not equipped with a serial port it will be necessary
38. y trained and experienced persons who are fully aware of the hazards inherent to this type of high power laser equipment It is imperative also that prior to using the equipment an appropriate risk assessment 1s conducted in such a way as to take account of the proposed use of the equipment the environment in which the equipment is to be operated and how its use may affect people who are not directly involved with the use of the equipment Example of a laser warning product label The LIBS 6 and LIBS 8 integrated LIBS modules are designed to meet the laser safety requirements of the relevant European standards BS EN 60825 and USA standards ANSI Z136 1 2007 Although these products may be supplied with a sample chamber which provides adequate containment of the laser radiation to Class Accessible Emission Limits it is possible for the user to operate the LIBS modules without the sample chamber ie operation in open beam mode as may be required for certain types of experiment Accordingly when fitted to an appropriate laser it is necessary to consider the LIBS modules to be Class 4 Laser Products and so by definition the equipment poses a risk of personal injury eye skin injury and poses a fire risk As with all Class 4 laser products appropriate safety precautions must be taken as identified via a suitable risk assessment conducted by the user in consultation with a suitably qualified and experienced Laser Safety Officer
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