Year
1992
Abstract
A system for measuring uranium concentration has been developed utilizing Rosemount pressure transmitters. The system originated with the need for real time uranium analysis which prompted investigation into the density/U concentration relationship. To develop a correlation, samples were taken from the process with a precise volume of the samples being weighed. From these measurements the density was calculated. Knowing the density and density/U correlation, it was possible to predict the U concentration. As part of measures taken to meet the Material Control and Accountability Reform Rule, Rosemount pressure transmitters were installed at several locations in order to measure volume. Each location required two pressure transmitters - one to measure the \"height\" and one to measure the \"density\". The transmitter measuring the \"density\" actually measured the pressure differential across a known (fixed) distance. From this differential pressure measurement the density was calculated. The density/U concentration correlation developed earlier permitted the determination of concentration from the calculated density. Therefore it was possible to measure the differential pressure using the pressure transmitter, transmit a 4 to 20 mA signal to a digital display, and display the concentration in g U/l. The result achieved with this measurement system provide real time measurements as well as reliable accountability measurements.