FAQ

In principle, radiometric measurements are always safe, provided they are properly installed and it is ensured that the applicable regulations are complied with. Regular instruction of the personnel contributes significantly to a respectful and responsible handling. Since each measurement is designed customer-specific, only really necessary source activities and an optimum shield are used. Recurring checks of the shield allow early detection of possible repairs or even failures. The sources are also subject to an inspection interval, which is determined by the individual application environment of the source, as well as the specifications of the respective authority.

Yes, interface measurements are possible with radiometry. Not only is it possible to localize the interface layers between two phases, but also to measure a density profile for more complex processes. In this way, it is possible to visualize the heights of the different product layers inside the vessel and thus also monitor the properties of a transition phase, e.g. an emulsion. Learn more about our solutions for interface and multiphase level measurements.

No, because herein lies a significant advantage over conventional belt weigher systems.

With a conventional belt scale, maintenance and servicing is extremely time-consuming. At regular intervals the operator's personnel must recalibrate the measurement and maintain the system, e.g. remove dirt and incrustations, lubricate moving parts, etc. This means not only personnel costs and time, it also means that the product flow in the plant is interrupted during recalibration and maintenance. Many operators therefore decide to make these regular time intervals as long as possible so that the plant as well as its capacities are not affected too much. These longer time intervals can increase measurement drift.

In contrast, the LB 472 radiometric belt scale system requires only a single commissioning and calibration. In general, no recalibrations are necessary, since the accuracy of the radiometric measurement is independent of dirt or incrustations, vibration, belt tension, wind, or centricity of the rollers used. Furthermore, our measurement does not contain moving parts that require regular maintenance. Therefore, we have developed a maintenance-free system for you, which offers high accuracy and ensures the availability of your material flows.

- If the calibration of the measurement should preferably be as simple as possible

- If the measured value is to be stable, accurate and reproducible over the entire lifetime of the measurement, without recalibration

- If process influences such as gas density fluctuations or wall caking are to have as little influence as possible on the measurement

- If weld tests are performed frequently

- If spare parts inventory should be uncomplicated

- If production downtimes must be kept to a minimum in the event of a detector defect

Berthold measurement systems stand for highest precision, quality and reliability.

With our enormous specialized knowledge and extensive experience, we develop suitable solutions together with our customers for new, individual measurement tasks. We know our business!

No! Compared to typical radiation exposures from everyday life, staying close to a properly installed radiometric measurement is safe.

No, definitely not! The microwaves used for Berthold moisture and concentration gauges are not dangerous. The energy of the microwaves in the standard units is only 0,1mW, which is 1/10.000th of a Watt. Common WLAN or Bluetooth conncetions for instance have a energy of 100 mW and are therefore 1.000 times.

A radiometric measurement is based on the absorption of radiation when it passes through matter. Radiometry means "measuring with radiation".

Please fill out this form if you want to send a measuring device to Berthold for repair. After you have submitted the form, you will receive a confirmation e-mail from us containing the RMA number. Please print this email and include it with the measuring device for shipment and keep the RMA number handy for any questions regarding this process.

The serial number of each Berthold measuring device can be found on a metal plate attached directly to the measuring instrument. We need this number and the material number to uniquely identify your measuring device.

Return of radioactive sources for all countries except Germany:

Should you decide to return radioactive sources to us, international regulations for the transport, labelling and dose rate of radioactive materials must be observed and the regulations of the respective country. It is the full responsibility of the sender to fulfil and adhere to these regulations.

Replacing the source does require the direct handling of the unshielded source. You must clarify with the responsible supervisory authority in advance whether your license for handling radioactive substances comprises handling unshielded sources. In any case, the source may only be installed/removed by authorised persons. The competent radiation safety officer is responsible for planning and monitoring the work.

In principle, none. Modern, high-quality radiometric detectors have advanced algorithms that reliably compensate for ageing processes and temperature influences. As the measurement is contactless, the measuring equipment is not subject to any wear and tear and can therefore be described as maintenance-free. In addition, such devices are very reliable; for example, the MTBF value (mean time between failure) for a Berthold LB 480 SIL detector is > 42 years.

There are basically 2 ways to dispose of a disused radiation source. The distributor (usually the manufacturer) takes the source back and takes care of a safe and compliant reuse or disposal. Alternatively, it can also be handed over to a national collection point.

Yes, but only if this is technically and, in your country, legally possible. At Berthold, we give our sources a recommended life-time of 15 years. After that we recommend to replace the source. Therefore, it is in the operator's responsibility to use the source longer.

Radiation detection technology has improved over the years. In radiometric systems that have been in operation for a long time, the activity of the radioactive source has decreased significantly due to natural decay. This causes less sensitive old detectors to be unable to reliably measure the respective process.

Since source replacement is costly, time consuming, and does not work towards a reduction in overall site source activity, in some cases it is advisable to replace the detector against a new and more sensitive detector and keep the source. Commonly, using a more sensitive detector, an additional 10 to 15 years of operation are possible with the existing measurement source left in place.

As good as never! Modern and sophisticated radiometric systems offer a high degree of user-friendliness and do so without the need for recalibration during regular operation.

Yes, all Berthold detectors are available with housings made of SS304 or SS316L which is essential to withstand the harsh environments radiometric devices are frequently exposed to. Especially for coastal or offshore applications housings made of 316L stainless steel are mandatory.

No! Berthold detectors have features (XIP or RID) that handle interfering radiation and thus maintain a stable and reliable measurement.

Yes of course! With the aid of Berthold's PRC (Product Radiation Compensation) feature, our gauges can compensate and correct for the additional radiation coming from your process.

Yes, but this can be easily compensated for with Berthold's Gas Property Compensation (GPC).

Yes! The detectors SENSseries LB 480 from Berthold have been awarded SIL2 / SIL3 certification. This certificate covers the measurement applications level switch, continuous level and density.

Yes, of course. Our experienced and well trained service engineers are available worldwide to provide you with the best possible support including supervision of commissioning and finally the calibration of all Berthold measuring equipment.