FAQ

What is Lead Paint Detection?
Simply put, Lead Paint Detection is the science of non-destructively measuring the amount of lead, if any, on painted surfaces. Because lead exposure is not readily visible to the common eye, the effects of lead poisoning have become a point of concern. The resulting studies have been well documented by government agencies, which have heightened regulations and increased public awareness regarding the use of and exposure to products that contain lead. The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has worked with the lead inspection community to create technology capable of providing non-destructive testing on questionable sites/sources with accurate results.

The LPXpro™ is our fast, accurate and easy-to-use solution, using integrated X-Ray Fluorescence technology (XRF) for detecting lead in painted surfaces. This point-and-shoot- technology optimizes productivity, reduces downtime and enhances effectiveness. The LPXpro™ is a complete system with easy to use software for standard or custom reports.

How Does XRF Technology Work?
The LPXpro™ uses a Cobalt-57 radioactive source which locates lead atoms in painted surfaces. A lead atom has a distinctive energy signature that the XRF analyzer measures the concentration which is displayed in milligrams per squared centimeters. According to government regulations, greater than 1.0 mg/cm2 indicates a dangerous level of lead.

How long is the half-life for Co57 and when do I resource the instrument?
The half-life for Cobalt-57 is approximately 9 months. The source will decay at the same rate whether the instrument is used once or a million times. It’s not necessary, however, to change the source after one half-life. The source in the LPXpro™ can be used well beyond 9 months. In fact, when checking the instrument’s calibration, Time Corrected Mode will automatically adjust the reading time for the age of the source.

How much radiation is an operator exposed to by the LPX-Pro-1?
The LPXpro™ contains a maximum of 12mCi of Cobalt-57 radioactive material, sealed and housed in a tungsten shield inside the instrument. The source can only be exposed when the system is in contact with a surface. The radiation dose rate in the operator’s hand is approximately 0.3 mRem/hr with the shutter open or closed. This is substantially below the permissible dose rate. The LPXpro™ successfully passed the Device Safety Evaluation Review and is a nationally registered device.

Has the LPXpro™ been issued a Performance Characteristic Sheet (PCS)?
The LPXpro™ has begun the process of obtaining a Performance Characteristic Sheet (PCS), but has not yet received one from HUD. The LPXpro™ may not be used for lead-based paint inspections in the U.S. until a PCS has been issued by HUD.

What is required before Dynasil Products can deliver my LPXpro™?
In order for us to deliver any LPXpro™ device, the following 3 items must be completed:

  1. The user must receive a license or registration from the local state agency (see LPXpro™ Specification & Licensing Requirements for instructions). A copy of the license or registration may be mailed or emailed to us prior to shipping.
  2. The user must complete a factory authorized training course. The training, which is provided by an authorized representative of our company, can be completed in one day and is included in the purchase price.
  3. Payment must be arranged and confirmed. Accepted methods include a certified bank check, a signed and approved lease agreement, or an institution or government purchase order.

How do I complete the required Training for LPXpro™?
Contact Dynasil Products for a schedule of upcoming training classes, or your local Representative to check their availability to conduct a class on your behalf.

Can I finance my LPXpro™ instrument? If so, how?
For those who wish to finance their purchase, Dynasil Products works through several leasing companies to allow customers to spread out payment in convenient monthly installments. Contact Dynasil Products for a list of lease-to-own companies.

Will the software run on my computer?
The Report Generation Software (RGS) is compatible with all Windows Operating systems.