Year
1989
Abstract
The TRIFID (TRansuranic Isotopic Fraction interrogation Device) system is a second generation plutonium isotopic analysis system which incorporates many new and unique features in the area of isotopic analysis and NDA system design. TRIFID is a completely integrated data acquisition and isotopic analysis instrument consisting of a Canberra Series-95 MCA interfaced to a Compaq 386 computer. The entire TRIFID software package, including MCA communications and isotopic analysis routines, was developed using the C programming language. Extensive use has been made of user friendly screens and menus for ease of operation and training, and to facilitate use by technician level operators. Automated TRIFID features provide for MCA/ADC setup and acquisition, spectral storage, isotopic analysis, and report generation. One unique feature of the TRIFID system design allows it to be pre-programed for an entire day's counting. The isotopic analysis module (EPICS) contains an expert system formalism which is used to detect and assay for spectral interferences, and to automatically adjust peak fitting constraints based on spectral intensity variations. A TRIFID system has been in operation in a production laboratory at the Rocky Flats Plant since September 1988. Marked decreases in training and hands-on operation time have been achieved in comparison to the older, preceding isotopic systems.