Gamma Photon Column Scanning of Prototype and Industrial Distillation Columns

Monte Carlo simulation of gamma photon transport and interaction with the distillation column its contents was performed in order to predict effects photons when they interact matter. The results are presented as energy deposition on contents. Energy attenuation more pronounced walls trays compared region between trays, where there is mostly vapour space. Gamma scanning then used verify by investigating integrity two laboratory prototype industrial columns. One columns 1 m tall four other one 1.8 consisting six a packed bed. Commonly encountered malfunctions such collapsed tray, weeping, flooding foaming were simulated scanned. 26 benzole prefractionator column, 60 single pass diameter 0.8 m. A 100 Ci60Co radiation source NaI(Tl) scintillation detector scan from prototypes showed that all clearly detected except for foaming. their correct position although tray number 32 could be partially damaged just below 41, revealed loss wall thickness. obtained density profile some small variations expected this attributed external features wind bursts shifted chosen line orientation.