Radiometric Level Measurement

Radiometric Level Measurement

Radiometric level measurement uses gamma radiation to measure level, interface, and density in situations where other technologies cannot operate reliably. It is commonly selected for extreme process conditions and for vessels where mechanical, geometric, or construction constraints prevent contact or wave-based measurement.

The measurement principle is based on attenuation: a gamma source emits radiation that is reduced as it passes through material. As level or density changes, the amount of attenuation changes, and a receiver interprets that change to produce the desired measurement result. Systems typically comprise a source, a source container, and a receiver/transmitter.

A defining benefit is fully external, non-contact measurement - often enabling instrumentation without process penetration into the product zone. Radiometric systems can address continuous level, point level, density, and interface measurement across liquids, solids, suspensions, and sludges, including in process states that defeat ultrasonic, radar, or mechanical sensors.

Typical applications include high-pressure/high-temperature vessels, reactors with heavy buildup, high-solids slurries, and geometries with obstructions that create echo or contact issues. Radiometric methods are also used where product behavior changes rapidly or where corrosive environments would shorten the life of intrusive probes.

Design considerations include regulatory compliance, safety engineering around source handling, and selection of source container features such as mechanical locking and controlled switching. Proper source-detector alignment, path length, and shielding strategy are central to achieving stable measurement while maintaining required safety margins and operational availability.

Engineered Equipment Company, a leading supplier of specialized industrial equipment.