Gamma-ray absorption technique and process computed tomography

This research is about measuring tray position in distillation column using gamma-ray absorption technique and process computed tomography. The main purpose of this experiment is to measure the tray position using gamma ray absorption and Process Computed Tomography. Cobalt-60 (Co-60) has been used as gamma source and sodium iodide (NaI) scintillator detector as the measurement device. The activity of Co-60 used in gamma-ray scanning test is 5.12mCi and 2.9mCi for gamma Tomography. The results shows that the trays position in distillation column can be determined using the gamma scanning technique and we can construct the image of the column using the Gamma Tomography method.

Gamma ray scanning often referred as ‘column scanning’ is a convenient, cost effective, fast, efficient and non-intrusive technique to examine inner details of the distillation column as it operates. This method allows engineers to study the tray or packing hydraulics inside a column at any set of online condition. It provides essential data to optimise the column’s performance, extend column run times, track the performance failing effects of fouling and solid deposition, and identify maintenance requirements well in advance of scheduled turnarounds. Based on this, repair downtime can be reduced significantly.

Full setup of Computed Gamma Tomography (CGT) around a distillation column

Components inside tomography machine controller

Trays inside a distillation column