Radiological Tracing involves injecting radioisotopes (liquid, solid, or gas) directly into the process. The tracers used are custom generated based on the application and typically have short half-lives.

One common application is a tracer leak test. Radioactive tracers are an extremely accurate and efficient method to verify suspected leaks and confirm the source of the leak. Leak tests are often performed on shell and tube heat exchangers. This test involves injecting a gas or liquid tracer into the high pressure side of the exchanger (see figures below). Detectors are placed downstream to detect the leak. The size of the leak can then be quantified based on the detector responses. The figure to the left below shows the typical detector placement for a shell and tube heat exchanger leak test. The figure to the right is an example plot indicating a leak.

click image to enlarge

click image to enlarge

EXTENDED TRACER STUDY APPLICATIONS

• Flow Rate Measurements • Leak Tests of Block/Relief Valves • Distribution Studies • Detecting Leaks Past Total Draw Trays in a Column • Flare Studies • FCC Studies • Residence Time Studies

Our personnel are some of the most experienced Tracer professionals in the industry. Give us a call to discuss the benefits of a Quantum Tracer Study.