DESIGN TECHNIQUES USED IN APPLYING NUCLEONIC EQUIPMENT TO SOLVE DENSITY MEASUREMENT AND CONTROL PROBLEMS

摘要

Gamma radiation density and interface gauges are in use for numerous applications at plants of Union Carbide Chemicals, Olefins, and Plastics Companies. Commercial gauges are available for many applications, however, problems frequently arise where commercial gauges cannot be applied without first developing a special sample cell or making other modifications. One example is a density gauge for small diameter pipe developed by the Special Instrumentation Division.rnOnly recently have radiation density gauges for pipe smaller than three inches become available. At least one manufacturer now markets a Bremsstrahlung gauge for one, two, and three-inch pipe. The relatively low energy level of Bremsstrahlung radiation permits accurate measurements through short sample paths. However, the Bremsstrahlung gauge is limited to pipe wall thicknesses of X/k inch or less. The first portion of this paper describes a gamma radiation gauge for pipe diameters of one and one-half to three inches that can be used with pipe of any practical wall thickness.rnThe second portion discusses the application of two gamma radiation gauges to a chemical refining process. One gauge monitors the interface and provides a signal for controlling sludge removal. The other gauge monitors sludge density aiKiTprovides a signal for controlling the acid flow rate.