HFA Settler Interface Level Measurement

[GGMurphy]

I want to measure the interface levels in a Hydrofluoric acid settler. Due to the nature of HFA a non-contact measurement device is strongly preffered. So far the only non-contact solution that appears to be capable of measuring the various interface levels is a Vega nucleonic density measurement device. It produces a density profile of the vessel from which the interface between the HFA - Emulsion Layer - Hydrocarbons can clearly be seen. The trouble with this method is the obvious risk surrounding radioactive material and the high cost (£60k).

Can anyone suggest a alternative method or a nucleonic device that might be less expensive?

 

[ICman]

Please forgive me since I don't know a lot about hydrofluoric acid, but I'm good at suggestions <G>:

Can you use a differential pressure measurement? Diaphragms are available in a variety of materials.

Ultrasonic can give you a contactless level, but I doubt you could get to the interface point.

Check out

http://www.agar.com.

They use microwave absorption techniques to determine oil/water interfaces. Perhaps they could suggest something.

Then, nuclear sounds like your only alternative. Yes, it's expensive and it's a hassle with the radioactive sources (and paperwork!), but it works well.

. . . Steve

 

[scanguy]

A good way to find liquid/liquid and liquid/vapour interfaces externally is with neutrons. For more info check it out here.

http://www.towerscan.com