INTERFACE & MULTIPHASE
LEVEL MEASUREMENT
Optimal monitoring of
separation processes
RADIOMETRIC SOLUTIONS FOR INTERFACE MEASUREMENT
INTERFACE AND MULTIPHASE OF TWO PHASES
LEVEL MEASUREMENTS Radiometric measurement systems are used for localization of the interface layer
between two phases. Clearly formed interfaces between two liquids or product layers
Radiometric measurement systems from Berthold are used to monitor interfaces or can be measured by means of simple measuring arrangements. Factors like vessel
multiple layers in process vessels. Not only the interfaces between two phases can be geometry, accuracy requirements or economic aspects influence the selection of the
localized, but also the measurement of density profiles in more complex processes is most suitable arrangement.
possible. In this way, the heights of the different product layers inside the vessel can Our highly experienced application experts are pleased to support you and help you find
be mapped and so the characteristics of a transition phase, e.g. emulsion, can also the best solution for your needs.
be monitored.
Interface and multiphase level measurements are primarily applied in the oil and gas
industry and in chemical plants, e.g. on separator vessels. Due to the harsh conditions Possible applications
prevailing there, such as high temperatures, pressures or geometrical issues, some ■ Storage tanks
measurement technologies are not able to provide reliable measurement results. ■ Settling tanks
Radiometric systems, on the other hand, can be used under such extreme conditions ■ Separators with clear interfaces
and provide accurate measurement results also when measuring corrosive liquids.
Measurement technology
In simple terms, a radiometric measurement consists of a system of a source that emits
radioactive radiation and a detector that can detect this radiation. Gamma radiation is
attenuated when penetrating a vessel and its contents. Thereby, the attenuation by the
Point source in dip pipe / Rod source in dip pipe /
heavier phase is much stronger due to its higher density than that by the lighter phase. point detector rod detector
Based on the measured intensity of the gamma radiation together with a corresponding
calibration, the individual phases can thus be identified. The measurement is not affected
by pressure, temperature, viscosity, colour and chemical properties of the measured
material. Consequently this results in high reliability and low maintenance of radiometric
measurement systems, even under harsh operating and environmental conditions.
Advantages of radiometric technology
■ No direct contact to the measured material
■ Reliable under extreme conditions
■ Wear-and maintenance-free
■ Easy installation even on existing vessels
■ Smooth handling and operation
■ No re-calibration required
■ For small measuring ranges ■ Formeasuring ranges of any lengths
■ Perfect for horizontal cylindrical vessels ■ Best accuracy along whole range
■ Highly accurate, especially with small ■ Highest sensitivity and minimum
differences in density source activity
■ Very cost-efficient ■ Unique rod source technology
2 3
MULTIPHASE LEVEL MEASUREMENT Aligned arrangement Staggered arrangement
MEASURING DIFFERENT LAYERS
The measurement of more than two phases or of interfaces that are not clearly defined
poses a number of challenges for the measurement technology. Depending on the
process, an emulsion layer changing in height or only very small differences in density
of the individual phases must be expected. Build-up on the vessel walls or installations
inside the vessel are also not uncommon in separation processes. Because of these and ■ Sources and detectors at same height ■ Sources between detectors
other challenges, some measuring technologies fail, whereas radiation-based measuring ■ Output: Density values of each detector ■ Outputs: Density values of each detector and
systems, such as Berthold‘s EmulsionSENS, master them. The result of a reliable ■ Very precise point information level of each layer
monitoring of the separation process could therefore be not only the optimization of ■ Density accuracy approx. 0.002 g/cm³ ■ Precise information also between detectors
the residence time but also the consumption of chemicals, such as anti-foaming agents, ■ Cost effective ■ Reproducibility of the measured level values
thus saving costs. with accuracy of ± 25 mm
■ Configuration and visualization via
EmuslionSENS transmitter unit
With Berthold‘s multiphase level measurement system EmulsionSENS separating layers
are reliable monitored and the dependent process can thus be optimally controlled.
Several density measurements are installed on different heights with detectors mounted
on the vessel outside and sources inserted into a dip pipe to create a density profile of To obtain the best possible measurement, it is necessary to design the measurement
the vessel contents. If not only the density values of the vessel contents are of interest, system individually and adapt it to the respective process and requirements. Our
but also the position and height of the individual phases, the level of the phases can experienced application specialists will be pleased to design EmulsionSENS to your
also be output. Depending on requirements, EmulsionSENS is therefore available in two requirements.
different arrangements (aligned and staggered).
Possible applications
■ Desalter
EmulsionSENS ■ Hydrocracker
The multiphase level measurement system ■ FWKO
and a resulting density profile
■ Treaters
■ Alkylation units
Oil Emulsion Water
■ Separators
■ Storage tanks
Customer Benefit
■ Non-contacting: Detectors and electronics
mounted outside the vessel, sources inserted
into a closed dip pipe
■ Unaffected: Scaling or use of different
opportunity crudes has no influence
■ Fail-safe: Multiple independent detectors
and redundant signal transmission
Density ■ Representative: Combination of high-energy
gamma sources and long measurement
paths provides reliable results
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EmulsionSENS Transmitter LB 478
Transforming density profile
A COMBINATION OF SELECTED COMPONENTS into level outputs
■ Intelligent:Calculation of levels of the
individual layers based on the measured
SENSSeries LB 480 density profile
■ Simple and intuitive: operation via
High sensitive scintillation detectors
3.5“ TFT touch-panel, different languages
The SENSseries LB 480 density meter is a compact field device that combines top of ■ Visualization: measured values, trend chart,
the class measuring technology with maximum manufacturing quality and innovative density profile
features - the best system for challenging measuring tasks. ■ Reliable: important maintenance-oriented
■ Very robust: stainless steel or 316 L, SIL2/3 certification diagnostic functions and self-monitoring
■ High sensitive: 2“ scintillator ■ Everything in place: Necessary transmitters
■ Best stability: ≤0.002 % per °C (-40°C…+60°C) and other complex electronics can be located
■ Proven radiation interference detection: XIP in a control cabinet
■ Individual: number depends on measuring range and resolution requirements ■ Signal output to DCS: level values via
■ Easy access and not affected by process temperatures: correct positioning via 4…20mA (HART)
extremely robust and tailor-made mounting structure on vessel outer wall
■ Signal output to DCS: density values via 4…20 mA (HART)
Multipart sources Flange shields
High quality – made by Berthold Best for radiation protection
■ Flexible: Multiple point sources installed in ■ Safe place: Keep flexible rods including sources
flexible rods during maintenance or storage, whereby shield
■ High-energy gamma point sources: Cs-137 remains mounted on the vessel
■ Most secure: safely sealed in absolutely tight ■ Optimum shielding effect: Stainless steel design
and durable capsules made of stainless steel ■ Very compact: Dimensions are adapted to
■ Leak-tested: according to ISO 9978 and required source activities, keeping height and
DIN 25426 weight as low as possible
■ Individual: Number of sources or flexible rods ■ Even safer: pressure proof design available
depends on measuring range and chosen
arrangement (aligned or staggered)
■ ALARA: Individual project engineering to ensure
the principle „as low as reasonably achievable“
and aim to keep the source size to a minimum
Dip pipe
Individual positioning of sources
■ Uniform measuring paths: geometry depends on
vessel orientation (vertical vessels -straight pipe /
horizontal vessels -curved pipe)
■ Tailor-made: adapted to the corresponding vessel
dimensions
■ Adapted to the environment: almost all common
materials available
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THE EXPERTS
Product Interface & Multiphase Level · DC00306PR2 · Rev.01 · 06-2020
IN MEASUREMENT TECHNOLOGY
Berthold Technologies stands for excellent know-how, high quality and reliability. The customer is
always the focus of our solution. We know our business!
Using our varied product portfolio, our enormous specialized knowledge and extensive experience,
we develop suitable solutions together with our customers for new, individual measurement tasks
in a wide variety of industries and applications. Berthold Technologies is specialised in radiometric
process measurements for 70 years. This is our core competence with state-of-the-art and cutting
edge products and solutions covering a vast range of industries and applications.
We are here for you – worldwide!
The engineers and service technicians from Berthold Technologies are wherever you need them.
Our global network assures you fast and above all competent and skilled assistance in case
of need. No matter where you are, our highly qualified experts and specialists are ready and
waiting and will be with you in no time at all with the ideal solution for even the most difficult
measurement task.
Berthold France SAS
8, route des Bruyères · 78770 Thoiry · France
+33 (0)1 34 94 79 00 · b e rt hold- f r a nc e @[Link] · [Link]