Intermediate results of a 1-year study of a laser spectrometer in the DOE filter test facilities

The model LAS-X laser spectrometer was studied. The principal objectives were to gain operational experience with the LAS-X/diluter/HP-85 particle size measurement system in the FTF environment, acquire size distribution data to quantify the consistency of the Q107 aerosol size distribution at each FTF and among FTFs, and compare the FTF test aerosols to current and proposed standards. It is found that: (1) the LAS-X system can be operated successfully in the FTF environment: (2) each FTF requires a back up LAS-X to continue filter testing during the once each year removal of a LAS-X from service for major recalibration and repair: (3) the FTF test aerosols are not monodisperse and do not all meet the new nuclear standard, which a replacement aerosol would be required to meet; (4) the test aerosol at each FTF is quite consistent over time; and (5) the test aerosols at the three FTFs differ consistently.