Improved Precision for Nuclear Level Instruments

Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc., (USA) announced the introduction of the newly redesigned Thermo Scientific Mola-LS moisture on-line analyser and the Thermo Scientific Krilpro neutron backscatter level/interface device, which now achieve higher precision, at ACHEMA 2009. Both non-contacting nuclear instruments feature a reduced source size of 100 mCi (3.7 GBq) and patented pulse-mode, ion chamber technology that allows for excellent stability and repeatability over a wide temperature range to heighten process optimisation and reduce operational expenses.

Designed to optimise blast furnace performance in steel plants, the internationally-compliant MOLA-LS achieves repeatability of 0.47percent of moisture by weight on a two-inch steel wall hopper. This precision enables accurate determination of the moisture content in metallurgical grade coke and/or iron ore pellets and helps plants efficiently manage process conditions, including variability in coke size and high coke volume. The Mola-LS improves productivity with low maintenance requirements and, unlike competitive models, there is no ceramic liner required for installation, further reducing costs.

Designed to improve the efficiency and stability of the delayed coking process used in refineries, the Krilpro also achieves extremely high precision while meeting stringent international nuclear regulations. It features precision of .00026 g/cm3 hydrogen over a temperature range of -40°C to +80°C (-40°F to +176°F) to provide accurate detection of light, medium and heavy foam as well as wet and dry coke.

The improved precision of the Krilpro helps minimise operational expenses by reducing the use of anti-foam agents and increases coke drum output per cycle to optimise operational performance.

Both the Mola-LS and Krilpro feature a keyed safety interlock system that increases operator and plant safety. When the shutter is radiating or in the ‘on’ position, the instrument cannot be removed from the measurement

location, eliminating the possibility of radiation exposure while the instrument is in operation.

For customers seeking a rugged nuclear density gauge capable of highly accurate readings using an extremely small source, the company also offers the Thermo Scientific DensityPro. Based on energy attenuation technology, it is able to measure process conditions within pipes from 25.4 mm (1 inch) to 1066.8 mm (42 inches) in size and offers a wide range of features to simplify installation and maintenance.