The Department of Science and Technology - Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI) is offering its services using Gamma Ray Column Scanning Technology to assist the local industries, such as oil refineries and petrochemical plants, in the inspection and investigation of process vessels. This technology makes it possible to “see” inside a process vessel, such as distillation columns in refineries or petrochemical industries, and quickly identify its problems without interrupting normal plant operations. Such technique saves the client company time, money, and other resources.
Called density profile, the technique provides significant information on the condition of the whole process and the vessel itself. Engineers, using the technology, can identify damaged or missing trays and their positions, extent of flooding and its location, liquid weeping and foaming, liquid levels, and blockages, among others. Thus engineers and operators can determine the status of the column and consequently make arrangements for maintenance and troubleshooting to prevent emergency shutdown.
Since the process does not involve direct contact with the insides of the vessels, it also avoids potential corrosion, temperature or pressure problems.
This precision nuclear tool could prove useful beyond troubleshooting structural problems. The data gathered may also be used to improve the structures and processes of the plant, thus making them more efficient and reducing production down-time in cases of programmed shutdowns.
Meanwhile, process columns are crucial components in refining crude oil to turn it into valuable fuel, as well as in sustaining the plant’s cooling systems, among others. Plant shutdowns for maintenance could cost around $1,200 per hour overseas, translating into millions of pesos in losses everyday for the local operators.
Prospective clients of the gamma-ray column scanning service range from members of the oil industry to operators of chemical plants.
Since the late 1990s, PNRI experts have provided gamma-ray services to major oil companies with local operations in the Central and Southern Luzon and local petrochemical companies. The Department of Science and Technology Grants-in-Aid project also kept the service and equipment upgraded with automated data-logging software and scanning systems.
For more information on gamma column scanning, please contact Section Head Adelina Bulos of the PNRI Isotope Techniques Section in Commonwealth Avenue, Diliman, Quezon City or call us at 929-6011 local 225 or 240. You can also send your queries at isotopetechnques@pnri.dost.gov.ph (S&T Media Service)
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