TruTec™ Scanning Services (North America, Mexico, Venezuela, Peru and Caribbean)

Neutron Backscatter Study

• Measure level and interfaces in vessels and storage tanks
• Monitor fouling deposits
• Identify plugs and vapor pockets in piping
• Measure froth heights in tower downcomers
• Measure liquid levels on tower distributors/chimney trays
• Detect interface/emulsion band in separators
• Identify liquid levels in reboilers/heat exchangers

A TruTec™ Neutron Backscatter measurement is used to trouble-shoot or optimize on-line processes. It can measure liquid levels, vapor pockets, fouling, or interfaces between different phases by detecting differences in hydrogen concentration. This system is an extremely efficient method of verifying liquid levels in pressure vessels, determining froth heights in downcomers, identifying plugs in piping, or sludge levels inside tanks.

Neutron Measurement on a Polymer Line
A neutron source emits neutron particles which pass readily through insulation and carbon steel to measure process material within a range of 4 - 6 inches. The neutron particles are moderated (scattered) by Hydrogen nuclei, and measured by a detector that adjoins the neutron source, illustrated in the figure shown below.

Do you have problems with your tank inventory?
Tank and Pressure Vessel Measurements The Neutron Backscatter system is frequently used to verify level indication devices, detect fouling deposits on tank or pressure vessel walls, and to inventory vessels where more than one material is present.

Do you have fouling or sludge material build-up in your relief valve system or process piping?
Piping Measurements
The neutron measurement can be used to quickly identify flow restrictions in piping, or vapor pockets that may be contributing to pump problems. Several rubber and polymer plants require routine neutron surveys of all their relief piping in the plant, to assure that no dangerous deposits exist that would result in undesirable back pressures or flow restrictions.

Neutron measurements are very complementary to our TRU-SCAN® technology results. Froth height or level information provided by our neutron system can be invaluable for identifying design problems or restricted liquid traffic due to downcomer blockages. This system is light, compact and portable, therefore its range of application is not limited by set-up requirements. If you would like to learn more or if you have a problem that appears to be suitable for investigation please contact a Technical Advisor in your area.

Brochure A PDF version of the Neutron Backscatter Study Brochure is available, to download it click here