| You are here : Home Page » Multiphase Measurement » Multiphase Meters » Gamma | |||
GAMMA absorption principle Haimo meters utilise the photo electron effect that is associated with the low energy gamma sources, in this case, Americium 241. Rather than depending on the densities, the phase discrimination occurs by measuring the relative presence of the Carbon to Oxygen (raised to the 4th power) atoms in the Oil and water respectively. This gives the Haimo meter the unique advantage of measuring oil and water fractions, even if separated by a narrow margin of density. HSE notes on Am 241 Americium 241 is the most commonly used commercial radioactive isotope. By far the largest and most widespread use of Americium-241 is as a component in household and industrial smoke detectors, where a small amount is used in an ionization chamber inside the detector. Americium emits alpha particles and low energy gamma rays. It has a half-life of about 432 years. From the occupational safety perspective, Am 241 is considered harmful only if ingested or inhaled. Damages to skin or internal body organs are not measurable statistically for external exposure, as Am 241 produces low energy gamma rays. The Am 241 low energy characteristic is such that just a 3 mm thick lead protection is enough to limit the number of emitted photons (from source to the environment) to only 3 per million. This brings down the risk of radioactive exposure as Haimo uses a gamma source that is easy to shield. |
|||