Advanced technology ensures precise radiation-based measurement in petrochemical applications without the problems associated with interference radiation

Finding reliable measurement solutions for the petrochemical industry is not always an easy task. The prevailing conditions are usually anything but ideal and thus pose significant challenges for every measurement. No matter how demanding the measurement task, Berthold offers a radiometric system available for a reliable and efficient solution: starting with simple level measurements in storage tanks, through level switch measurements on critical processes to multi-phase monitoring.

Even the most robust measurement has its challenges; for radiation-based measurements, interference radiation is the major stumbling block, especially in industrial complexes. Interference radiation occurs frequently in non-destructive testing, which is typically used for weld or vessel integrity inspections and performed as part of a daily schedule. Such interferences can cause a significant increase in the count rate detected by the detector and therefore create a misinterpretation of the measured level (as shown in the graph above). Since neither the timing nor the impact of interference radiation is predictable, radiometric measurements require a reliable solution to overcome this problem.

Berthold has implemented sophisticated algorithms, called XIP-feature (X-Ray Interference Protection), in their detectors, whereby the detection of interference radiation leads to a freezing of the measured value. As soon as the interference has ended, the measuring system returns to normal operation. By using Berthold’s XIP-feature, continuous process flows can be ensured, unplanned shutdowns avoided, and thus real added value is provided when using radiometry, even in the event of interference radiation. Berthold's detectors have been specially developed to withstand very high doses and survive such external radiation.